2023 Session 30 Report: Influence

by Uwaomala Tedeye · October 21, 2023

Itsekiri NextGen Project: Session 30 Report
Topic: Influence
Date: September 9, 2023
Volunteers Present: 4
Total Number of Attendees: 65
Timings: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Venue: Former Caravan 4, Aja-Pessu (Pessu Town), Warri
Resource Person: Jolomi Tedeye

Summary of Session on Influence:

The 30th session of the Itsekiri NextGen Project, held on September 9, 2023, delved into the topic of “Influence.” It served as a poignant reminder of the challenging times we live in, where individuals are constantly influenced by others, be it for better or worse. Unfortunately, the session highlighted that people often succumb more to negative influences than positive ones.

Session Delivery:

As participants arrived, they were warmly welcomed one by one. When it was time to commence the session, they were asked to take their seats promptly for the opening prayer and the rendition of the Itsekiri anthem, both led by the coordinator.

Jolomi Tedeye was introduced as the day’s facilitator, and the participants enthusiastically applauded his arrival at the microphone.

He initiated the session by inviting some participants to share what they have gained from their involvement in Itsekiri NextGen thus far. Several participants stepped forward to express how the project had bolstered their self-confidence and equipped them to confront challenges fearlessly.

The facilitator emphasized that the core mission of Itsekiri NextGen is to redirect the minds of young people away from negative influences and vices, instead fostering their potential and cultivating positive character traits.

Acknowledging the challenging environment in which they live, the facilitator warned against associating with individuals who exhibit questionable characters. Rather than being influenced by such negative influences, participants were encouraged to distance themselves from such associations, recognizing the difficulty of positively influencing those with destructive behaviours.

While specific participants were not singled out, some individuals displaying behaviour reminiscent of street culture were cited as examples. The participants were reminded that emulating street behaviour is unacceptable and were urged to reconsider their actions. They were asked to describe how street individuals typically behave, which some did by imitating gestures and using phrases commonly associated with street culture, such as “shouting chairman, I loyal o” (with hands in the air) and “anything for your boy/girl?”

Participants with mobile phones were cautioned to exercise discretion in their online activities, as social media can expose them to harmful influences.

Itsekiri NextGen participants were reminded that they have no reason to be negatively influenced, as they are being mentored to stand out and be different from their peers. The teachings and guidance received at every session should empower them to resist negative influences.

Participants were encouraged to befriend exemplary individuals like Tosan Okandeji, who was recognized for her outstanding achievements, including an invitation by Warri Community Radio to participate in a live radio show.

Andrea Okereke posed a question about why people easily succumb to negative influences. The coordinator explained that negative things often appear attractive and beneficial on the surface, but they ultimately do more harm than good. People are drawn to what catches their attention and offers instant gratification.