BSEWN 13th Edition Inspires Young Minds to “Think Forward” in Lagos
By Trek Africa Newspaper
Young people have once again been charged to think forward in their pursuit of excellence as the 13th Annual Edition of Beyond Secondary Education, What’s Next? (BSEWN) held in Lagos, bringing together educators, policymakers, industry leaders, and hundreds of students for a day of motivation and future-focused learning.
Organized by Future Matters Concept and The Success Ambassadors Foundation , the now well-established event has, over thirteen years, evolved into a transformative platform committed to guiding young people through the critical transition from secondary school to the next phase of their academic or career journey. Since inception, BSEWN has focused on providing clarity, building confidence, and equipping youth with practical skills needed to excel in an increasingly dynamic world.
In his welcome address, the convener, Adewale Adeleye ANIPR, expressed pride in the continued impact of the initiative, noting that the program was designed to answer a vital question for school leavers: What comes next after secondary school?
According to him, the 2025 theme, “Think Forward,” challenges young people to rise above present limitations, embrace innovation, and prepare intentionally for emerging opportunities.
> “To think forward is to envision possibilities beyond current limitations… It is a call to be proactive, adaptable, and visionary,” Adeleye said.
“As we commence this 13th edition, let us embrace the spirit of forward thinking—to learn, to innovate, and to build a generation that will shape the future of our nation with courage and creativity.”
The conference featured thought-provoking presentations from distinguished speakers across diverse fields.
Hon. Hon Jubreel Ayodeji Abdulkareem , Member, Lagos State House of Assembly, urged students to stay committed to their studies while making educational choices aligned with their strengths and passions. An interactive session further exposed participants to practical steps for developing a forward-thinking mindset.
Hon. Abdul-Ganiyu Vinod Obasa , Executive Chairman, Agege Local Government, spoke on cultivating a growth mindset and highlighted interventions his administration has implemented to support education.
He encouraged the youths, saying:
> “If the door of opportunity you want to go through doesn’t open, then create the opportunity yourself. Innovation thrives where creativity meets opportunity.”
Dr. Oluyemi Taiwo, Managing Director/Chief Medical Officer of Orile Agege General Hospital, emphasized the link between mental well-being and academic achievement, noting that:
> “Having a strong mental state is the first step to a Thinking Forward attitude.”
Former NIPR Lagos Chairman, Barr. Jide Ologun, urged young people to take responsibility for their choices, reminding them that:
> “Your background does not determine your future as long as you choose to remain a forward thinker.”
Mrs. Thelma Okoh , Registrar, National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN), spoke on building confidence and independence, with a cautionary note:
> “Be careful of mentors who can later turn into tormentors.”
Former Speaker of the Lagos Youth Parliament, Hon. Remi Bello , added:
> “A lowlife today can be an influential figure tomorrow—but only with a growth mindset.”
The event also featured an awards ceremony recognizing individuals who have contributed significantly to youth development.
Over its thirteen years, BSEWN has impacted thousands of young people through mentorship, capacity-building workshops, and career development programs. Many alumni have progressed to excel in tertiary education, entrepreneurship, and leadership roles—demonstrating the initiative’s long-term influence.
The 2025 edition concluded with renewed enthusiasm among participants, reinforcing BSEWN’s mission to nurture a generation prepared to think forward, innovate, and lead with purpose.
Described as a movement that fuels creativity and possibility, BSEWN continues to offer young people exposure to diverse opportunities and the mindset needed to shape a promising future.
