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Generation Next Initiative

Event

Generation Next Leadership Conference 2026

Our flagship conference introduces Generation Next to around 200 undergraduate students, with two keynote addresses, open conversation and the unveiling of the 12-month mentorship programme.

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Date
Friday 4 December 2026
Time
11:00am - 3:00pm
Venue
T.I. Francis Auditorium, Federal University of Technology, AkureFederal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
Who it is for
Undergraduate students and recent graduates

The maiden Generation Next Leadership Conference brings students, mentors, leaders and friends of the initiative together for a day of inspiration, dialogue and opportunity. The day closes with the unveiling of the mentorship programme, how to apply and the next steps.

Programme

  1. 11:00WelcomeThe Vice-Chancellor, Federal University of Technology, Akure
  2. 11:15Opening remarksThe Convener, Generation Next
  3. 11:30First keynote address'Gbenga Sesan, Executive Director, Paradigm Initiative
  4. 12:10Second keynote addressRegina Chris-Ogbodo, Executive Voice Strategist
  5. 12:40Refreshments and networkingTime to meet speakers, mentors and students
  6. 13:30Questions and conversationStudents' questions, comments and ideas
  7. 14:45Unveiling the mentorship programmeProgramme overview, how to apply and next steps
A university auditorium set for a student leadership conference

Keynote speakers

Voices shaped by experience and purpose

Meet the two keynote speakers joining us in Akure for an afternoon of ideas, conversation and possibility.

’Gbenga Sesan, keynote speaker

Keynote speaker 01

’Gbenga Sesan

Executive Director, Paradigm Initiative

Social entrepreneur · Digital inclusion and rights advocate

Growing up in Akure, ’Gbenga Sesan could hardly have imagined that his journey would take him from a young Nigerian fascinated by technology to an influential voice on Africa’s digital future. He leads Paradigm Initiative, a pan-African organisation connecting underserved young Africans with digital opportunity while defending their digital rights. Since 2007 it has taken technology, life, financial-literacy and entrepreneurship skills into underserved communities. An Electronic and Electrical Engineering graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University, he has pursued executive education at Oxford, Harvard, Stanford, INSEAD and King’s College London, and has served on the UN Secretary-General’s Internet Governance Forum Leadership Panel.

“You can start in Akure, build from Nigeria, solve real problems — and create impact that reaches the world.”
Regina Chris-Ogbodo, keynote speaker

Keynote speaker 02

Regina Chris-Ogbodo

Executive Voice Strategist · Broadcaster

Communication trainer · Social impact leader

Popularly known as Mama Reg, Regina is a seasoned broadcast journalist, communication trainer, public-speaking coach and compere with nearly three decades of professional experience. As CEO and Lead Trainer at Reggypanache Training Consult, she helps leaders, professionals and emerging voices build the confidence, clarity and presence to communicate with authority. Her expertise spans broadcasting, diction, elocution, presentation and executive communication. The Widow’s Might supports widows and their children through educational scholarships, medical assistance, food, clothing and practical empowerment.

“Turning personal adversity into purpose — using voice, experience and influence to strengthen others.”

Event attendance

Register for the conference

Complete these brief details to register your interest in attending.

After the event

The conference is the beginning, not the end

The mentorship programme is unveiled on the day, and the 12-month journey follows for those selected.

Explore the programmeBecome a mentor