Grassroots participation

On Friday, 30th January 2026, Crownrise Development Initiative (CDI), in partnership with DMercy-P Humanitarian Foundation, successfully hosted a deeply impactful program titled “Learning from the Scar” at Oroki Hub, Oroki Estate, Osogbo.

The event brought together advocates, professionals, community voices, and survivors in a safe and empowering space designed for sharing, healing, exposure, connection, mentorship, and discovery. The program reinforced a powerful message: every story matters, and every voice deserves to be heard.

Opening Session

The program began with welcome remarks from the Executive Directors of both partnering organizations, who highlighted the purpose behind Learning from the Scar. They emphasized the need to create supportive environments where individuals can openly discuss lived experiences, especially those shaped by gender-based challenges, trauma, and societal expectations.

They also reaffirmed the commitment of both organizations to advancing community development, inclusion, and psychosocial empowerment through sustained advocacy and mentorship.

Opening Charge: Gender Mainstreaming

The keynote opening charge was delivered by Mrs. Adebayo Oluwatoyin, who spoke on the importance of gender mainstreaming in both community and institutional spaces.Her session underscored that gender inclusion is not a peripheral issue but a foundational approach to development. She stressed the need to intentionally design policies, programs, and social systems that recognize the unique experiences of all genders, ensuring equal access to opportunities, support, and protection. Her address set the tone for the day, linking personal healing with systemic change.

Experience Sharing: Voices from the Scar

One of the most moving segments of the program was the experience-sharing session, where participants courageously shared personal stories shaped by hardship, resilience, and growth.These narratives created a moment of collective reflection and solidarity, reminding everyone present that scars, whether emotional, social, or physical can become sources of strength, learning, and transformation. The session fostered empathy, connection, and a renewed sense of hope among attendees.

Panel Session: Conversations That Matter

The event featured a robust and engaging panel discussion moderated by Hon. Adetunji Ajala, Executive Director of Crownrise Development Initiative.The panel brought together diverse perspectives from leadership, advocacy, and lived experience. Panelists included: Dr. Modupe Ishola Olanrewaju – CEO, Oroki Foods, Citizen Omolola Way and Mrs. Betty Fakayode.The discussion explored several critical themes, including: The role of community support systems in healing and empowerment, Breaking the culture of silence around gender-related issues, Economic empowerment as a pathway to dignity and independence,Turning personal pain into purpose and advocacy. The panelists shared insights drawn from their professional journeys and community engagement, encouraging participants to seek support, speak up, and actively contribute to positive social change.

Closing and Reflections

The program concluded with closing remarks Hon. Adetunji Ajala, who appreciated all speakers, panelists, and participants for their openness and contributions. Attendees were reminded that healing is a journey best taken in the community, and that platforms like Learning from the Scar exist to ensure no one walks that path alone.

The event ended on a unifying note with a group photograph, symbolizing solidarity, resilience, and a shared commitment to building safer, more inclusive communities.

Looking Ahead

Learning from the Scar is more than an event, it is a movement toward awareness, healing, and transformation. Crownrise Development Initiative and DMercy-P Humanitarian Foundation remain committed to expanding such platforms that amplify voices, promote gender inclusion, and foster community-driven solutions.

Because every scar carries a story and every story has the power to inspire change.

In a bid to promote inclusive education and social welfare at the grassroots level, Crownrise Development Initiative (CDI) partnered and support the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Rural Development and Community Affairs, Hon. Adetunji Ajala, to execute a transformative outreach program tagged “IMPACT the Vulnerable Grassroot Children.”

The initiative was designed to support and empower children from vulnerable communities by providing essential school materials such as school bags, shoes, uniforms, books, and other learning supplies. Through this act of compassion and community development, the program aims to reduce barriers to education, restore hope, and inspire a brighter future for children in underserved areas.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Adetunji Ajala emphasized the administration’s commitment to improving the lives of rural dwellers and ensuring that no child is left behind due to economic or social challenges. He highlighted the importance of education as a tool for breaking the cycle of poverty and building a sustainable future.

Representatives of CDI Mr Tobi Ayeni commended the partnership and reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to grassroots impact and developmental initiatives that prioritize education, welfare, and empowerment. The collaboration underscores the power of public – private partnerships in driving meaningful change and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

The smiles on the faces of the beneficiaries reflect the true essence of the initiative, hope restored, dreams rekindled, and futures empowered.

This partnership stands as a testament to the shared vision of building a society where every child, regardless of background, has equal access to opportunities for growth and success.