While addressing Journalists in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State Capital on 29 April 2013, Professor Wole Soyinka, Africa’s first Nobel Laureate in literature suggested that the phrase “Nigeria is Boko Halal” should be adopted as the campaign slogan for the World Book Capital since UNESCO had named Nigerian city Port Harcourt the 2014 World Book Capital.
“When they (Boko Haram insurgents) say Boko Haram, we say Boko Halal,” he said.
A group of young creatives took this simple idea and ran with it. What they had intended would be a one-off campaign to increase the consciousness of formal literacy in Nigeria ended up opening their eyes to the complex social challenges contributing to the high proportion of school dropout rate in Nigeria. This, as well as the need to go beyond merely talking about the social problems in the Country inspired the formal registration of ‘The Young African Bookworms Initiative’ in November 2015.
Through the nonprofit organization, individuals, for-profit organizations and philanthropists are able to commit their time and resources to support the development of mentally, socially and emotionally capable children, with greater emphasis on those at the bottom of the Pyramid.
Our Vision
To develop the emotional, social and mental capability of the African child
Our Mission
Through sustainable programs, improve the socio-economic conditions of the communities where underserved children learn, grow and play’.
Our Mission Statement
Books and Beyond
OUR VALUES
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Collaborative: We believe in the power of working with stakeholders from diverse sectors and disciplines to achieve mutually-beneficial goals.
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Innovative: We continually seek new and effective ways to solve complex social problems.
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Transparent: We are upfront about our intentions for social impact and remain open in our communications
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Ethical: We are committed to acting honestly and fairly in ways that respect diversity and protect the dignity of those we serve.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES FOR OUR PROGRAMS
- Does it allow the beneficiaries to actively participate?
- Does it maintain the dignity of our beneficiaries?
- Is the intervention evidence-based (EBIs)?
- Does it promote team work?