To align with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the Aspire Women Forum has embarked on The Happy Conference 2023 to underscore the importance of guidance, support, and education in fostering a safer environment for women.
The Convener, Aspire Women Forum, Barr. Zainab Marwa disclosed this at the Happy Conference 2023 with the theme, "Mentorship as a Tool for Preventing Violence Against Women," which was held at the National Centre for Women Development, NCWD in Abuja.
Barr. Marwa said the Objective of the Happy Conference is in Aspire Women Forum's pursuit to unite and invest in preventing violence, the Respect Women Framework, focusing on transforming attitudes, beliefs, and norms.
She noted that mentorship emerges as a powerful strategy, and throughout the conference, participants explore its potential to prevent violence against women and girls, adding that the Happy Conference 2023 is not just an event; it is a catalyst for change.
"We aspire to launch the Inspire to Aspire Mentorship Program, attaching mentees to mentors in real-time. Our objectives are clear: to challenge harmful stereotypes, sensitize participants through real-life stories, foster networking, and create a platform for continuous support through the Inspire to Aspire Mentorship Programme.
"The genesis of the Happy Conference lies in the fundamental belief that every woman has an inherent right to the pursuit of happiness. In a world where challenges such as suicide, murder, despondency, and drug abuse disproportionately affect women, our focus on happiness becomes a powerful catalyst for positive change.
"Reflecting on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with rising fear, anxiety, and depression among women in Nigeria, we are compelled to address these issues collectively.
"In 2020, commemorating International Women’s Day, we delved into the theme "I am Generation Equality: Realizing Women’s Rights,” kickstarting a journey to prioritize happiness as an inalienable right for every woman," she said
Barr. Marwa, "Our commitment materialized through events such as the "Finding My Happy” retreat and a Mental Health Awareness Week lecture, providing solutions to the mental health challenges faced by women. From these initiatives, the FES Regimen emerged, emphasizing the need for women to embrace an optimal Financial, Emotional, and Spiritual regime centred around their life's purpose.
The Happy Conference 2020, themed "A Woman: My Purpose,” brought together generations of women in an interactive and informative dialogue. Esteemed speakers, coaches, and dignitaries from various sectors shared their FES regimens, fostering inter-generational understanding and paving the way for the empowerment of women.
Speaking at the conference, the new Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development, NCWD Dr Asabe Vilita-Bashir said the Happy Conference is not merely a gathering; it is a testament to the collective dedication to addressing the challenges faced by women and creating pathways to happiness and fulfilment.
Today, we embark on a transformative journey under the theme "Mentorship as a Tool for Preventing Violence Against Women.” As we delve into this critical conversation, let us acknowledge the significance of mentorship in reshaping attitudes, challenging societal norms, and ultimately preventing gender-based violence. Our esteemed speakers and panellists, individuals of remarkable achievements and influence, will guide us through their experiences and strategies, offering insights that have the power to inspire positive change." She said
She thanked the founder of the Aspire Women Forum, Barr. Zainab Marwa and her team, whose unwavering efforts have brought members to this moment. "Your commitment to the vision of gender equity, motivational behavioural coaching, and financial inclusion is truly commendable. 2
Dignitries at the Happy Conference 2023 were the AWF members, special guests, CSOs, corporations, MDAs, DG National Centre for Women Development, and Others
