GLOWPULSE 2.0: ENUGU’S EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE BOOTCAMP EMPOWERS CHILDREN WITH SKILLS FOR LIFE

 

GlowPulse 2.0, the flagship Emotional Intelligence Bootcamp for children aged 8–15, opened on 6 August 2026 with a powerful blend of practical skills, awareness sessions and inspiring real-life stories. Hosted at Omedel Luxury Hotel, Enugu, the four-day programme is designed to equip young participants with knowledge, confidence and emotional tools that go far beyond the traditional classroom.

Day one set a high standard. Mrs. Ebere Nwafor, Disaster Management Officer and First Aid Trainer with the Nigerian Red Cross, Enugu, led a fully hands-on CPR session that kept the children actively involved. Officials from the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) addressed the critical issue of child trafficking, teaching participants how to recognise risks and protect themselves. Professor Theresa Nwagha, CEO of the UNTH Foundation, spoke on cancer awareness, while Hon. Patrick Nwabueze Uburu, Enugu State Commissioner for Agriculture, guided the children on making informed career choices. The day’s sessions were beautifully moderated by Ambassador and Correct FM Enugu OAP Ophilia Alete (Lolo).

The standout moment belonged to Ambassador Isioma Idika, who travelled from Abakaliki to paint live before the audience. Living with cerebral palsy and unable to use her limbs, Isioma held a brush in her mouth and created striking artwork with speed, accuracy and no preliminary pencil sketches. Her brother stood beside her, cleaning brushes, preparing paints and steadying the canvas, while her family has reshaped their lives to support her gift—running her social media and providing constant encouragement. Her performance delivered a profound message: disability does not erase ability, dreams or potential. With the right support system, extraordinary achievement becomes possible.

The theme of support resonated deeply. Organisers noted that nearly one in six people worldwide experience loneliness, a condition linked by the WHO Commission on Social Connection to an estimated 871,000 deaths annually—roughly 100 every hour—and an impact on premature death comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Lonely individuals are also twice as likely to experience depression. True support, they emphasised, means standing in the gap when others cannot stand for themselves—holding the canvas when hands fail.

Day two, held on 11 August 2026 at Hotel Presidential Enugu (by Amber), focused on leadership, digital responsibility and self-awareness. Mr. Chukwuma Ephraim Okenwa, Founder of Lead Network Africa and CEO, opened with a compelling address on purposeful leadership. He stressed that true leadership is not defined by titles but by the ability to influence, support and empower others, and that children must never lie to their parents—honesty being a foundational pillar of character and trust.

Mr. Onyedikachi Bernard Asadu (popularly known as The King of Boys) followed with a timely session on digital responsibility. He underscored the need for intentionality and safety online, clearly instructing children never to talk to strangers on digital platforms while upholding strong morals and values.

Coach Uzoamaka Nwachukwu, Co-founder of Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation and COLI Mental Health Academy, guided participants through self-awareness as the cornerstone of emotional intelligence. She helped the children explore their emotions, triggers, strengths, areas for growth, beliefs, values and personal standards. Fun games and structured group activities reinforced teamwork, collaboration and mutual support. The children actively participated, asked thoughtful questions and shared their perspectives throughout.

At GlowPulse, organisers believe that preparing children for the future requires far more than academic knowledge. Emotional awareness, leadership skills and digital responsibility are essential for navigating the world with confidence and integrity. “This is precisely what we are building—one meaningful conversation at a time,” the team stated.

Two days remain. On Tuesday, 18 August 2026, participants will gather at De Angelo Event Centre, Golf Estate, Enugu, for Games, Play Therapy & Resilience. The programme culminates on Tuesday, 25 August 2026, with a Closing & Celebration at The Andover Hotel, Enugu. The final day will also feature a vocational activity alongside teachings on self-regulation, bullying and cyberbullying—equipping the children with practical skills and strategies to manage their emotions, stand up to harmful behaviour and stay safe both offline and online—before the celebrations begin.

GlowPulse 2.0 continues to raise a generation of confident, values-driven young leaders—reminding every child, and every adult watching, that with knowledge, support and opportunity, there is truly no excuse not to reach full potential.