In recognition of his outstanding contributions towards improving human lives, HACEY’s Health Initiative Project Director and co-founder, Isaiah Owolabi has been awarded the Queen’s Young Leaders Awards on Monday, June 21, 2015 at the United Kingdom’s Buckingham Palace.
HACEY’s Health Initiative is a youth-led non-profit community-based development organization that young people are crucial in championing the fight against major challenges facing the society and play crucial roles in achieving the millennium development goals.
The organization’s focus includes Infectious diseases including STI, HIV, Malaria, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Environmental protection, Sanitation and Hygiene, Economic empowerment and Human rights
Apart from Mr Owolabi, other winners of the award included three other Nigerians, and three winners from Canada, India, Cameroon and South Africa each. The Young Leaders Awards is given to exceptional young people from across the Commonwealth who take the initiative to support others, raise awareness and inspire change on issues covering education, gender equality, mental health and disability equality.
Earlier during a courtesy visit on Wednesday, 17th June, 2015 by the British High Commission represented by Theresa Adeniyi and the QYL Nigerian ambassador, Stephanie Okereke-Linus, Mr Owolabi discussed his work with HHI on safe motherhood through Project Agbebi and advocacy of girl rights through the Hands Up For HER Campaign. Mr Owolabi also said that the QYL award placed further responsibilities on him.
Furthermore, he said “The success is collective. I am happy and also surprised by the award. I see the award as a bigger responsibility and an opportunity to further impact on the life of others. This award will provide needed boost to our efforts at the HHI to continue to engage the public and private sectors and the people on the need to pay more attention to health, women and girls issues in the society,” he said.
