My SDG journey started In 2018 during my service year for NYSC (National Youth Service Commission). As a youth corps member, I joined the SDGs Community Development Service (CDS) group and learnt more about the Global Goals for Sustainable Development. I also attended capacity-building workshops and training on Agenda 2030, which sparked my interest in participating actively in my CDS group. After months of learning about the SDGs and their relevance, I was elected the Vice President for the education sub-group, where we worked on creating SDGs clubs in various FCT secondary schools. It was honestly a defining moment in my career path and future goals.
My experience localizing the SDGs has been a rollercoaster of beautiful and challenging moments. Through volunteering, I have participated in different programs on SDGs from supervising health outreaches in local communities, educational impact projects for young girls and boys in the IDP camp and schools in the FCT, promoting peace and creating awareness of the Youth, Peace and Security (YPS agenda UNSCR 2250 & 2419) and facilitating the planting of over one hundred trees in the federal capital territory. My participation has personally influenced my life for good. I became more self-confident, developed new skills, and felt great accomplishment. It also gave me more insight into myself, the world around me, and how my action counts in making a difference. Now I wear many hats in the development space. Working as an Advocacy Officer at Building Blocks for Peace Foundation, directing the Community Impact Development at Junior Chambers International (JCI) Abuja Unity and a youth champion for Nigeria Youth SDGs Network.
Additionally, lack of a sustainable plan to continue the sensitization process at the grass root level, access to funding opportunities and low cooperation from the government and partners sometimes hinder the work in advancing the Global Goals.
For other young people looking to take action on SDGs, identifying your goal and passion, starting from your immediate surroundings or communities, and self-driven determination to handle challenges are essential.
“The little work you do will eventually pay off in a great way”. This motto has always been my driving force.
Fatimat Usman wears many is a pharmacist, peace builder, advocacy officer, youth champion and advocate for the SDGs.
