By Oluwaseye Adebeshin, Founder of Future Crest Initiative

Growing up in a small community in Ogun State, Nigeria, I witnessed firsthand how poverty and lack of access to quality education can hold back young people with so much potential. Many of my peers had dreams but lacked the resources, mentorship, or opportunities to pursue them. These experiences left a deep mark on me and planted the seed of a conviction: every young person deserves a fair chance to thrive, regardless of where they come from.

This conviction didn’t just come from witnessing a problem; it was fueled by a commitment to finding solutions. To gain the skills needed to create change, I actively volunteered with national and international organizations like Anwojue Hope Foundation, YALI Network Ogun, and Eco Diversified International. With Anwojue Hope Foundation, I co-led and volunteered on critical causes like the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which helped me understand how to mobilize communities for a shared purpose. My time with Eco-Diversified International was equally impactful, as I volunteered to train over 100 changemakers on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and how to implement projects in their communities. These experiences gave me a hands-on education in what it takes to drive meaningful change.

This journey led me to create the Future Crest Initiative (FCI) in 2025. FCI is a youth-led organization with a mission to empower young people with the skills, knowledge, and support they need to build a sustainable future. Our work is focused on tackling two of the most urgent challenges in our communities: poverty and a lack of access to quality education.

Although we are just six months old, our journey has already been both humbling and inspiring. Our commitment has earned me several ambassadorial roles, including Global Youth Ambassador and Global Peace Ambassador. I was also a proud recipient of the Young Achievers Certified Award, a testament to the belief that even small steps can lead to powerful change.

Through our programs on skills acquisition, financial literacy, and community-driven entrepreneurship, we have directly impacted over 1,000 young leaders across Nigeria and Africa. We have trained students and community youth in vocational skills, introduced workshops on budgeting and micro-savings, and supported small entrepreneurial ideas that not only uplift individuals but also address local needs. Watching participants grow in confidence, discover new possibilities, and take bold steps toward financial independence has been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey.

One story that inspires me daily is that of a young participant who joined one of our financial literacy outreaches. Initially shy and unsure of her future, she left the program with a clear plan to start a small business while continuing her education. She later told me that, for the first time, she believed her dreams were possible. Stories like hers remind me why this work matters.

What motivates me most is not just the impact we have made so far, but the potential for so much more. Africa’s youth are its greatest resource, yet too often their potential goes untapped. I believe that when we equip young people with skills and knowledge, we are not just helping individuals—we are transforming families, communities, and ultimately entire nations.

My passion is fueled by the belief that change begins with us, the youth. That is why I am committed to building FCI into a platform that amplifies young voices and creates opportunities that break the cycle of poverty. The past six months have shown me that with resilience, collaboration, and a shared vision, change is not only possible—it is inevitable.

At the heart of everything I do is a simple belief: when we invest in young people, we invest in a sustainable and equitable future for all.