Over three thousand youths from various regions gathered this weekend at the Synagogue Church of All Nations, SCOAN, headquarters in Ikotun-Egbe, Lagos, for the inaugural Youth Convention organized by the TB Joshua Foundation.
The Convention with the theme: “Legacy of Purpose-Investing in a Life That Outlives Us,” featured a range of experts aiming to educate and inspire attendees toward impactful lifestyles and greater achievements.
Opening the Convention, SCOAN leader, Pastor Evelyn Joshua emphasized the critical role of guiding youths as future leaders. She highlighted the importance of steering young people towards a purposeful and impactful life amidst the myriad challenges they face today, including ethical, social, and cultural disintegration.
Pastor Joshua also encouraged the youths to embrace the transformative potential of the Convention to reshape their lives meaningfully.
The “Legacy of Purpose” theme is rooted in the legacies of SCOAN’s founder, Prophet TB Joshua, whose vision was to ensure that future leaders are well-grounded in morals, education, and skills acquisition. Pastor Joshua urged the youths to stay close to God and let His word guide their lives.
The Director of the TB Joshua Foundation, Sarah Joshua, stated that the Foundation aims to preserve and rejuvenate Prophet TB Joshua’s legacy for the betterment of humanity. She announced that 30 participants would receive scholarships and support for small and medium-sized businesses.
Also, the principal organiser, Promise Joshua, thanked SCOAN youths in Akure and Ghana, as well as global supporters, for making the event possible. She assured attendees of greater future conventions, emphasizing SCOAN’s commitment to guiding Nigerian youths amidst today’s challenging social environment.
Evangelist Ope Adeyeye spoke on the Convention’s theme, noting that a purposeful life is essential for creating a lasting impact on others. The event also featured testimonials, including a former cultist who shared his story of redemption, highlighting the dangers of negative associations and overambition.
One of the Convention’s highlights was a panel discussion, moderated by mining engineer Woye Olagbaju, which provided a platform for addressing youths’ challenges.
Panelists included international media expert, Vimbai, HR specialist, Dr. Oluwaseun, esteemed banker, Moji Oguntoyinbo, educationist Professor, Ade Ayodeji, Barrister Deji Olabiwonnu, and tourism expert, Mrs. Nneka. The session offered valuable guidance and solutions for the participants’ life journeys.
The convention also included music, dance, drama, and other engaging activities. Participants praised the event’s impact, with Nike Adeyemi expressing hope for future conventions and Kolawole Shojonwo finding it both educational and inspiring. Ben Olamide described it as an unforgettable, enriching experience, calling for more such initiatives in Nigeria.