Over 150 children and teenagers gathered in Lagos on Saturday, September 6, 2025, for the fourth edition of Dream Big & Reach for the Stars, a youth workshop designed to help them set goals and visualise their future.
The one-day programme, organised by Amani Health Inc., a digital health organisation that bridges the gap in emotional and mental health care support for children, teenagers, and adults, was held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Conference & Exhibition Centre, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.
It also drew families who joined virtually from outside the state. Participants, aged 7 to 17, took part in a Dream Board exercise where they created visual plans for their ambitions.
The organisers said the activity was intended to build clarity, confidence and a sense of purpose. By the end of the day, children left with colourful boards and a shared conviction that “my dreams are valid.”
More than 90 parents watched their children present their boards and discuss their aspirations. One mother said the impact was lasting. “After last year’s edition, my son turned his wardrobe into a vision wall. This time, he already told me he’s putting his academics right at the top. This programme doesn’t just inspire, it changes lives,” she said.
Another parent added that her previously shy daughter now displays stronger self-esteem and keeps a personal reminder that her dreams are valid.
Rationale
The convener, Ayodele Fasuyi, said the workshop was created to restore the habit of dreaming among young people, noting that many children struggle with peer pressure, social media comparisons and anxiety about the future.
“Our goal is to show them that, no matter the noise around them, their dreams remain valid and their future is bright,” a facilitator told Premium Times.
A key session focused on the story of Tunde Onokoya, founder of Chess in Slums Africa, whose rise from modest beginnings to global recognition illustrated how obstacles can be overcome.
Mrs Fasuyi also recalled an earlier collaboration with his initiative in 2023. Corporate sponsors, including Indomie, SunTrust Bank, Rosabon Finance, Pasta n Grills, VDL Technologies, Markov Games AI, AYITI and Cake Allure, provided refreshments, gifts and other support that organisers said helped create a memorable experience.
Parents described the event as inspiring and practical, giving their children tools to set measurable goals and practise confidence. Now in its fourth year, Dream Big & Reach for the Stars has become a regular platform for families seeking more than academic success for their children.
Mrs Fasuyi and her team say the workshop helps young people move from hope to action, reinforcing the belief that “dreams are valid” and achievable.
Excel Beyond the Classroom
Building on the momentum of Dream Big, Mrs Fasuyi announced that Amani Health Inc. is unveiling Excel Beyond the Classroom (Cohort 2), a four-month skill-acquisition and empowerment programme designed to help children and teens build on their dreams.
Delivered through interactive workshops, mentorship, and project-based learning, the programme will equip participants with:
Practical skills in self-awareness, emotional intelligence, growth mindset, digital literacy, entrepreneurship, public speaking, problem-solving, and more.
She said, “Additional benefits include training to build resilience, focus, confidence, and tools to turn their vision boards into real-life achievements.
By the end of the programme, each child will have produced something tangible, a product, a project, or a portfolio that moves them closer to their dream.
She also urged parents to follow other life-shaping programs on social media @amanithinc and visit www.amanihealth.app, Call / WhatsApp +234 8140316233, to explore programs and resources that help children grow in confidence, resilience, and purpose.
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