The Rise Up & Sparkle Initiative (RUSI), founded by Mrs. Funmilola Omojola, FNCS, FIIM, Founder/CEO, has successfully concluded the SPARKHER Digital Bootcamp 2026, a three-day intensive programme that brought together 120 teenagers; boys and girls, alongside facilitators and volunteers.
Held at RCCG True Vine Parish, Ikorodu, Lagos, the bootcamp was more than just a technology training. It gave young people a practical space to learn, experiment, work together and discover what they can create with technology.
Over the three days, participants were introduced to a wide range of digital and creative skills, including Generative AI, AI image and video creation, graphic design, video editing, AI music creation, no-code mobile app development, digital skills, presentation skills, entrepreneurship, mental health and wellness.
One of the most exciting parts of the programme was the innovation challenge. Rather than simply learning how to use digital tools, the teenagers were asked to look around them, identify problems affecting people in their communities and think of ways technology could help solve them.
They were divided into more than 10 teams, and the results were impressive. The young innovators came up with solutions covering education, healthcare, transportation, employment, environmental issues, e-commerce and student productivity.
Among the projects presented were SERONOVA, a depression support app; EDU BRIDGE AI, an offline WAEC examination practice app; NEXORA, a skills and jobs app; LAURA, an environmental reporting app; SHOP LINK, an e-commerce app; ROAD ALERT, a LASMA-focused road alert solution; STUDY FLOW, an app designed to help students overcome procrastination; FAIR GUIDE, a Lagos transport prediction app; and a Community Health App, among others.
The project presentations were a major highlight of the bootcamp. Participants confidently explained the problems they identified, the solutions they developed and how their applications could make a difference.
The programme ended with the recognition of outstanding teams. Winning teams received prizes, while an outstanding participant was rewarded with a brand-new laptop in recognition of exceptional commitment and performance.
For Mrs. Funmilola Omojola, FNCS, FIIM, and the Rise Up & Sparkle Initiative, the goal of SPARKHER goes beyond teaching young people digital tools. It is about giving them the confidence to see themselves as creators, innovators and problem-solvers, capable of using technology to improve their communities and contribute to Nigeria’s digital future.
The success of the 2026 edition was made possible through the support of our sponsors, partners, facilitators, volunteers, parents and community stakeholders who believed in the vision and contributed in different ways to make the programme a success.
The Rise Up & Sparkle Initiative expresses its sincere appreciation to every organisation, individual, sponsor and partner who supported SPARKHER Digital Bootcamp 2026 with funding, resources, expertise, time or encouragement. Your investment in these young minds is an investment in the future.
With 120 young people trained, practical solutions developed and new talents discovered, SPARKHER Digital Bootcamp 2026 has demonstrated what can happen when young people are given the right tools, guidance and opportunity.
For Rise Up & Sparkle Initiative, this is only one step in a bigger commitment to raising a generation of digitally skilled, confident, creative and socially responsible young Nigerians.
SPARKHER Digital Bootcamp 2026 – moving young people from technology users to technology creators.
