On Sunday, November 3, 2024, the OSEMODE Centre for Children, Women, and Youth Empowerment organized a ground breaking webinar titled “Breaking the Silence: Rape & Violence Prevention, What to Do When It Happens?” This timely event, powered by CYONA Medicare, provided a safe space for participants to discuss critical issues surrounding gender-based violence. Held on Google Meet, the session started at 6:00 PM and brought together a diverse audience eager to engage in transformative conversations.
The event featured an incredible team of professionals dedicated to combating rape and violence through awareness and action:
• Ekengbuda Adesuwa (Host): A passionate advocate for women’s and children’s rights, setting the tone for a meaningful discussion.
• Dr. Ohis Ohioma (Co-Host): A health expert providing a balanced perspective on the medical and emotional impacts of violence.
• Lisa Wunmi Hassan-Bello (Speaker): A seasoned counsellor specializing in trauma recovery, focusing on empowering survivors.
• Dr. Offiong (Speaker): A professional well-versed in the legal and medical frameworks for addressing violence.
• Love Osagie (Speaker): An activist committed to raising awareness about gender-based violence and supporting victims in marginalized communities.
The speakers tackled the complex realities of rape and violence prevention with a blend of expertise and empathy, covering:
1. Prevention Strategies:
o The importance of community education to challenge societal norms that enable violence.
o Practical safety tips for vulnerable individuals and families.
2. Immediate Response:
o How to handle incidents of rape or violence effectively, ensuring both safety and evidence preservation.
o Steps to report incidents to the appropriate authorities and organizations.
3. Support for Survivors:
o The significance of trauma-informed care for survivors of violence.
o Building support networks to aid in recovery and reintegration.
4. Policy and Advocacy:
o The role of policies and advocacy in reducing gender-based violence.
o How individuals can participate in grassroots campaigns to create long-term impact.
Participants actively engaged through questions and real-life testimonials. The session provided not only education but also hope and direction for individuals seeking to make a difference in their communities. The webinar also offered resources and helpline information, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and continuous support.
Some of the most powerful takeaways from the event included:
• Breaking the stigma around discussing rape and violence to create a culture of accountability.
• The importance of speaking up and seeking help without fear of judgment.
• The need for communities to work together to address root causes of violence, from poverty to harmful gender norms.
The OSEMODE Centre and its partners, including CYONA Medicare, reaffirmed their commitment to continuing this conversation. Future plans include:
• Organizing workshops focused on self-defence and empowerment for women and youth.
• Collaborating with schools and community groups to expand the reach of these critical discussions.
• Strengthening support systems through partnerships with healthcare providers and legal aid organizations.
As the session came to a close, Host Ekengbuda Adesuwa and Dr, Ohis Ohioma thanked the speakers and participants for their dedication to addressing this pressing issue. She urged everyone to become advocates for change in their communities, reminding them that breaking the silence is the first step toward justice and healing.
This webinar served as a rallying call for individuals and organizations alike to take a stand against rape and violence. By equipping participants with knowledge and tools, the event laid the foundation for a safer and more inclusive future for all.
