Junior Chamber International (JCI) Garden City, in collaboration with the Ayoola Samuel Abiodun Foundation, successfully hosted the Ayoola Abiodun Student Impact Project (AASIP) 2026, a transformative leadership and educational development initiative designed to equip secondary school student leaders with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to lead with purpose and drive positive change in their schools and communities.

The initiative aligns with the mission of Junior Chamber International (JCI) Nigeria, which is dedicated to developing young active citizens through leadership development, impactful community projects, and sustainable initiatives that create lasting positive change.

Held at King Edwards Suites, Port Harcourt, the event brought together Head Boys, Head Girls, Prefects, and other student leaders from selected secondary schools across Rivers State for an engaging day of leadership development, mentorship, and capacity building.

Participants benefited from interactive sessions delivered by experienced facilitators on leadership, communication, discipline, teamwork, digital skills, purpose, and responsible citizenship. The programme also featured a talent showcase and networking session, providing students with opportunities to build confidence, express their creativity, and interact with peers from different schools and backgrounds.

As part of its commitment to promoting access to quality education, AASIP 2026 distributed specially developed Student Leadership Handbooks, branded exercise books, and writing materials to participants, encouraging continuous learning beyond the event.

One of the major highlights of the program was the Educational Support Initiative. Four students from public secondary schools received sponsorship for their 2027 WAEC examination fees, one student received sponsorship for 2027 JAMB registration, while an out-of-school child was awarded educational support to return to school and continue academic pursuits from JS3 through SS3. The child also received exercise books and writing materials to support the journey back to the classroom.

Speaking on the significance of the project, Teresa Tarinabo Kiani, President of JCI Garden City, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to developing responsible young leaders and improving access to education through sustainable community-based initiatives.

The successful execution of AASIP 2026 was made possible through the collaboration of the Ayoola Samuel Abiodun Foundation, the support of the Rivers State Ministry of Education, participating secondary schools, facilitators, volunteers, and partners who shared the vision of investing in the next generation.

Through initiatives like AASIP, JCI Garden City continues to demonstrate that leadership development and educational access remain powerful tools for building stronger communities and shaping a brighter future for young people.