Teen-Stars Skills Training: Empowering the Next Generation Through Practical Skills

 

The recently concluded Teen-Stars Skills Training held at Emmanuel Anglican Church, Ibusa, Delta State, was a vibrant, purpose-driven event designed to empower teenagers with hands-on skills and a mindset rooted in purpose and growth.

Christabel Ebhonu, a multimedia expert and teens coach, expressed gratitude to all who supported the vision — participants, partners, and the organizing team. She described the event, which took place on August 21, 2024, as a great success and thanked God for its outcome. The training was organized by BreakitDown Initiative for Teens in collaboration with the Anglican Children’s Ministry (ACM), Ibusa Zone.

Over 100 adolescents registered, with 65 in attendance. Participants chose from three key skill areas: Baking, ICT, and Photography.

The event was graced by notable figures, including Ven. Dr. Samson Anwasia (Archdeacon of Ibusa Archdeaconry), Celestine Adimabua Okocha (ACM Zonal Chaplain), Mr. Sylvester Ebhonu (The Digital Librarian), ACM teachers, and other supportive guests. 

Declaring the training open, Ven. Dr. Anwasia appreciated the convener, Mrs. Christabel Ebhonu, for her commitment to empowering teenagers. He encouraged the participants to make the most of the opportunity, highlighting the importance of combining practical skills with academic knowledge. In her remarks, Christabel Ebhonu noted that the programme aimed to introduce adolescents to foundational skills in baking, photography, and ICT. She emphasized that participants left the training more empowered than they came. The sessions spanned over eight hours, with full participation from students and instructors.

Presenting her welcome address, Mrs. Ebhonu shared her belief in the importance of early intervention in shaping the future of teenagers:

“It is better to catch them young than repair them as adults.”

The event also coincided with her birthday, making it a day of double celebration — a testament to her selfless commitment to empowering young lives.

Highlights from the Training Sessions:

• ICT Skills: Building Digital Literacy
  Facilitated by Mr. Abiola Olaibi, the ICT session introduced students to the fundamentals of digital tools. Topics included Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), graphic design using Canva, online safety, and responsible technology use. Twenty-one students were equipped with essential digital skills for the future.

• Baking Skills: Fundamentals of Confectionery
  Led by Mrs. Adediwura Olaibi, participants learned the basics of cake and pastry making, including hands-on experience baking vanilla cakes and preparing buttercream icing. A fun puff-puff bonus session added an extra layer of excitement. Over 35 students benefited from this track.

• Photography: Capturing Moments with Purpose
  Christabel Ebhonu herself facilitated the photography class, covering camera handling, safety, lighting techniques, and adjustments for indoor and outdoor environments. Students had the opportunity to practice using professional equipment, and many demonstrated an impressive grasp of camera settings by the end of the session.

Recognizing Excellence

Certificates of appreciation were presented to instructors, and Best Student Awards were given to the most outstanding participants:

• Onos Divine Great – Best Student in ICT

• George Blessing Ezekiel – Best Student in Baking

• Obiefule Chukwuka Great – Best Student in Photography

Feedback from participants reflected deep appreciation. Many expressed how nervous they were before the training but left confident, inspired, and eager to put their new skills to use.

“The Teen-Stars Skills Training turned out to be more than a skills acquisition programme. It ignited dreams. I hope this experience shapes their future for good,” Mrs. Ebhonu remarked.

A Surprise Celebration

As a heartwarming end to the day, a surprise birthday celebration was held in Christabel’s honor, pulled off by her husband, Mr. Sylvester Ebhonu. The event closed with a group photo, joy, and gratitude.

Kudos to the TeenST team and everyone who helped make the event a success. The future truly looks bright with initiatives like this lighting the way.