As part of efforts to promote child safety, inclusion, and mental well-being, Serene Early-Trobb Concept, a non-governmental and non-profit organization dedicated to child and human rights, and BO Foundation With Inclusive Media (BOFIM), held a sensitisation program to empower young persons with disabilities through mental health education and abuse prevention.
Held at the Down Syndrome Foundation with the theme “You Matter: Your Feeling, Your Voice”, the session aimed to equip young persons with disabilities with the tools to recognize and express their emotions, foster self-esteem, and learn strategies to protect themselves from abuse while promoting a supportive and inclusive environment.
The founder of the Down Syndrome Foundation, Mrs Rose Mordi, emphasized the importance of initiatives that create safe spaces for children with disabilities to speak out.
She acknowledged the emotional trauma many of the children face, often caused by those closest to them. “These children are vulnerable and dependent, which unfortunately makes them targets of abuse,” she said. “They need to understand that speaking up is the first step towards healing. They suffer in silence with sleepless nights, hearing voices, and other emotional distress. That’s why initiatives like this are important.”
Rhoda Olorunfemi, the Executive Director of Serene Concepts, in her presentation, spoke passionately about the importance of mental health awareness, especially for young people with disabilities.
Her session centered on helping the children recognize their value and understand that their feelings are valid.
Olorunfemi noted that emotional well-being is often overlooked in disability advocacy and stressed the need for inclusive conversations around mental health.
She also introduced the concept of Equal Love, encouraging the children to know that they are loved without conditions. Olorunfemi highlighted that differences in ability should never be a barrier to receiving love or acceptance. “You are not less than anyone. Everyone deserves love and respect,” she said, speaking directly to the children in attendance.
In her session that blended empowerment with practical tools, the children were introduced to daily self-affirmation practices, Olorunfemi taught them to say phrases like, “I am loved, I am completely loved. I am carefully and wonderfully made.” These affirmations, she said, can help counter feelings of isolation and build self-esteem.
On her part, Peace Odekunle, Program coordinator at BOFIM educated the participants about body safety, focusing on recognizing safe and unsafe touches.
She emphasized the importance of body autonomy, stating, “Your body is yours and yours alone. No one should ask to see it or touch it.”
She also encouraged the young persons with disabilities to report any inappropriate behavior to trusted adults. “If someone touches you in a way that feels wrong, tell them to stop, scream if you have to, run away, and go straight to someone safe,” she added.
The event closed with interactive activities, songs, and words of encouragement, leaving the children visibly uplifted.