We had a chat with her about her advocacy work, and she shed some light on all the amazing work she is doing.

Enjoy!

What is iodine deficiency, and why is it considered a major public health issue worldwide?

Iodine deficiency is a significant public health issue because iodine is essential for producing thyroid hormones, which regulate growth, brain development, and metabolism. A lack of iodine can lead to developmental delays, goiter, and cognitive impairments, especially in children and pregnant women. In high-risk communities, this deficiency can prevent entire generations from reaching their full potential, impacting productivity and economic growth on a larger scale.

Can you explain how iodine deficiency affects both children and adults, and what the long-term consequences are if left untreated?

For children, especially those in their formative years, iodine deficiency can lead to severe developmental issues, including reduced cognitive ability and stunted growth. Adults may experience hypothyroidism, fatigue, and, in severe cases, heart problems. The long-term consequences can be intergenerational, perpetuating cycles of poverty and diminished health, which is why public health initiatives like salt iodization and education are crucial for prevention.

How prevalent is iodine deficiency globally, and are there specific regions or populations that are more affected?

Over two billion people globally are iodine-deficient, with many facing moderate to severe deficiency. Regions with iodine-deficient soils, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and parts of Europe, are most affected. Rural and low-income communities are particularly at risk, where access to iodized salt and fortified foods is often limited.

What are some common symptoms or signs that someone might be iodine deficient?

A common visible symptom is goiter, or a swelling in the neck, due to thyroid gland enlargement. Other signs include fatigue, hair loss, weight gain, dry skin, and cognitive sluggishness. Because many remain asymptomatic, awareness and preventive measures, like the use of iodized salt, are essential.

What steps is your organization taking to raise awareness about iodine deficiency, especially in high-risk communities?

Coach Ndali: Through the Louis Love Nest Foundation, we’ve committed to outreach initiatives that offer both immediate relief and education. Since July, in collaboration with the Sir Sam Modebe Foundation SSMF, we’ve conducted monthly sensitization programs across Anambra, reaching between 200-300 street children monthly and feeding over 400 children in October. This outreach also targets the promotion of iodine awareness, while supplying families with nutritious food and the knowledge to incorporate iodine in their diets.

Additionally, our Project STEAM 2024 initiative has brought together over 17 international coaches from Canada, the U.S., South Africa, Ghana, and Nigeria to provide free training in STEAM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) and skill acquisition. This October, we are reaching youth in high-risk communities, equipping them with essential skills for a brighter, self-sustaining future.

I want to take this moment to commend my parents, Prof. Ifeoma Modebe and Sir Sam Modebe, for their unwavering dedication to humanitarian work in Anambra State. I am equally grateful to Barr. B. N Oneh for helping me hatch and develop this initiative and to our sponsors — Francis Osaji of System Digits, Hon. Igwe Nike, and Oreoluwa Afe — for their generous contributions to support what we do.

A heartfelt thank you also to each of the coaches who dedicated their time to Project STEAM 2024; their expertise and guidance have been invaluable to the success of our mission.

How can individuals ensure they are getting enough iodine in their daily diet? Are there specific foods or supplements you recommend?

Simple choices like using iodized salt can make a difference. Other iodine-rich foods include seafood, dairy products, eggs, and seaweed. In our outreach, we encourage the use of iodized salt and the inclusion of these foods whenever possible.

Are there any misconceptions about iodine deficiency that you’d like to address?

A major misconception is that iodine deficiency only affects developing countries. This is a global concern, even in developed nations, and everyone needs iodine daily. By dispelling these myths, we stress that iodine intake is vital across all ages and regions.

What role do governments and policymakers play in tackling iodine deficiency, and are there any key initiatives or programs that have been particularly successful?

Governments are crucial, particularly through salt iodization policies and public health initiatives like the UNICEF-Iodine Deficiency Disorder (IDD) Elimination Program, which has partnered with countries to promote iodized salt. Continued investment in these initiatives is essential for long-term impact.

How can schools, communities, and local organizations get involved in supporting World Iodine Deficiency Day?

Schools and communities can partner with us to organize workshops, distribute materials, and equally with governmental institutions/health organizations for greater outreach. Local advocacy for iodized salt and nutrition education can also help raise awareness.

Looking ahead, what are some of the biggest challenges in eradicating iodine deficiency, and what gives you hope for the future?

Challenges include ensuring accessibility to iodized salt in remote regions and maintaining public awareness. However, the dedication we’ve witnessed from our monthly outreach in Anambra, our collaborations with institutions like Enugu State Young Farmers Associations and Ephesus Gatherings that leant us their platforms to address the youths ensuring the success of Project STEAM 2024, makes me hopeful. Through these collaborative efforts, and with continued support from dedicated leaders and partners, I believe we can build stronger, healthier communities.

The Louis Love Nest Foundation and Project STEAM 2024 are creating a legacy of positive change through nutrition, health, and education — one community at a time.

I want to take a moment to wholeheartedly commend my parents, Prof. Ifeoma Modebe and Sir Sam Modebe, for their unwavering commitment to humanitarian work in Anambra State. Their dedication has inspired countless lives, and I am immensely grateful to them for setting such a remarkable example.

I also want to extend a special appreciation to Barr. B. N Oneh for collaborating with me in bringing this initiative to life. This project would not be where it is today without her input and support.

A heartfelt thank you goes to our generous sponsors—Francis Osaji of System Digits, Hon. Igwe Nike, and Oreoluwa Afe—for supporting and believing in our mission. Your sponsorship has been invaluable in helping us make a difference in the lives of so many.

Lastly, to all the coaches who took the time and energy to contribute to Project STEAM 2024, your dedication has been instrumental. Thank you for your expertise and commitment to empowering communities across the globe.

Here’s the list of coaches and their topics for Project STEAM 2024:

Fafali Mathis – Cybersecurity (US Navy Veteran) 

Essential cybersecurity practices to protect personal and business information from digital threats.

Kenneth Eze (ENSYFA President) – Agro Business Strategies for profitable agribusiness, focusing on sustainable and local farming models.

Austin Areh (Founder, Wildflower PR) – Speech Communication for Business Owners Techniques for impactful business communication to build brand reputation.

Coach Ndali Modebe (Project STEAM Coordinator) – Project STEAM Recap 

Weekly collaborative session to review progress, set goals, and share insights within the B3I network.

Barrister Bonita N. Oneh (Legal Adviser to the National Youths Council of Nigeria, Enugu State) – Human Rights Emergencies Legal steps for handling urgent rights issues.

Don Francis Osaji – Digital Marketing & You. Introduction to digital marketing tools and tactics for audience engagement.

Komla Elikem (US Navy Veteran) – Cybersecurity (Advanced)- Advanced cybersecurity, including risk management and defense strategies.

Professor Ifeoma Modebe – Iodine and Nutrition Part 1. Nutrition’s role in health and productivity, tailored for professionals.

Mercy Umoren – Project Management. Principles for organizing, executing, and evaluating business projects.

Kelechi Ogoke – Co-Host Frankly Business Podcast 

Digital Marketing -Strategies for using digital platforms to enhance businesses

Coach Ndali Modebe – DAME Media And PR Solutions – Branding on a Budget- Building a strong brand image with minimal resources.

Coach Ndali Modebe – First Aid & You – Life-saving first aid techniques, including CPR.

Uzoamaka Abia (Madam Jazz) – Social Selling Techniques for selling through social platforms to engage customers.

Coach Ndali Modebe – Customer Service Pro – Comprehensive customer service strategies for client satisfaction.

Moremi Elekwachi – Good Practices of Content Creation; Best practices for creating compelling content.

Coach Ndali Modebe – Why Reset Sunday and Having a Mindset Shift Can Boost Productivity. Importance of regular resets to maintain focus and avoid burnout.

Ambassador Davisha Johnson – Home Garden Hacks – Small-scale gardening tips for sustainable food security.

Johannes Andries Deysel & Sean Allen – The Future of Creativity. Exploring Web3, AI, and NFTs in the creative landscape.

Coach Ndali Modebe – Business Web Model Part 1 & Iodine and Nutrition Part 2. Nutrition’s role in health and productivity, tailored for professionals. 

Coach Ndali Modebe – Business Web Model Part 2. Developing a structured approach to networking and business growth.

OreOluwa Afe – Intro to Digital Transformation. Basics of digital transformation and applications for AI tools like ChatGPT.

Final Words

We are deeply committed to starting a powerful movement built on knowledge and love. Our goal is to inspire every person and community across Africa, by helping them realize their true potential. As we work together, we recognize that by harnessing our resources and talents, we can significantly boost Africa’s GDP, creating a stronger economy for all.

We believe that by sharing wisdom and showing kindness, we can create a brighter future for everyone. Together, we will strive to make Africa a place of greatness, where dreams can come true, and everyone has the chance to thrive. We won’t give up; we will keep pushing forward until our vision becomes a reality. Together, we can change the world!

A Warm Thank You To QM

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Queen Moremi Blog. It is always a pleasure to collaborate with you as a Coach in Project STEAM. I truly appreciate the incredible opportunity to be interviewed on your blog once again.

Now, let’s get everyone hyped! 

Should we announce our next project yet? ANTICIPATE!!! ANTICIPATE!!! ANTICIPATE!!!

Together, we are making a difference, and I can’t wait to see what’s next!

Follow Instagram @ndalimodebe @louislovenestfoundation @projectsteam24.

YouTube @ndalimodebe 

Whatsapp\Call +233209087166 

Email: projectsteam@outlook.com 

www.damemediasolutions.com

The level of misinformation out there gives us a great cause for concern. People are spewing out theories and stating them as though they are facts. There’s nothing we haven’t heard, especially on these Internet and social media streets. From people saying it’s not real, to people saying it’s a “disease for the rich,”  to people saying “its caused by 5G” or that “ginger, lemon, and hot water can cure coronavirus.” Oh. And can we talk about the fact that some people are still adamantly going to places of worship in crowds? And having house parties? Come on now. Ignorance is a huge factor to blame for this disease being spread like wildfire.

So at every chance we get, it is important that we do our part to keep educating people about coronavirus and how to avoid getting infected.

We love this video put together by the staff of Euphorique PR & SPS Media to help raise more awareness about the pandemic.

Watch and share – especially with those people in your life who still don’t get it.

Stay safe queens!

Photo/Video Credit: SPS Media

Well, Daniel Ahmadizadeh and Christopher Smeder understand this perfectly well, so they designed ‘Quarantine Together,’ a dating app for exactly this era we’re living in.

One of the unique things about the app is that when two users get introduced, they know nothing about each other except their names. According to Daniel, this erases the superficial impulse to use physical appearance as a yardstick to determine whether or not you want to talk to someone.

According to CNN, the app is text-based. Everyday at 6 p.m., the app asks its registered users whether they washed their hands. If they say yes, they are introduced to another user by text. After 15 minutes, the matched users will be offered a link to video chat.

Daniel says ‘Quarantine Together’ is  different from other online dating apps because,“In quarantine, other apps are not repositioning what people do…. ‘Quarantine Together’ is specific to how people are living in this time.”

Speaking further about the uniqueness of the app and why its relevant in these current times we live in, he says:

“With this app, there are no rejections…it’s less about your photo or your bio, it’s more about actually being able to talk to another person…and right now is not the time to get rejected. Right now is the time to be empathetic.”

Would you try this app?

Photo Credit: Dellon Thomas

Oluwaseun Ayodeji Osowobi, founder of Stand to End Rape – S.T.E.R Initiative was on Wednesday, named  Commonwealth Young Person of the Year 2019 for her contributions to ensuring gender equality and fighting sexual and gender based violence.

The very excited ‘Seun made the announcement via her Twitter page:

With more than 500 people from across the commonwealth that were nominated for the award, Ayodeji was selected from 16 finalists and four regional winners.

Here’s an excerpt from her acceptance speech:

This award reminds me that when young people don’t look away in the face of injustice, and say ‘no’ to cultural biases, we have the capacity to create change because we are magic.

Winning this award encourages me to keep working hard to build a safe community for women, girls and men in Nigeria and that my story is valid.

To my team and I, the award is a reminder that our work is seen, felt and should not stop now.

Our organisation provides medical, legal, mental health and psychosocial support, and empowerment services – depending on the requirement. In certain instances, we provide shelter access and financial support to survivors.

Having experienced sexual violence myself, I understand the cultural barrier of speaking up, and the lapses or lack of services available.

This award is a reaffirmation that elimination of sexual violence in Nigeria and other Commonwealth Countries is important and a core agenda of the Commonwealth Secretariat as we work towards achieving a ‘Connected Commonwealth’.

Seun, a survivor of sexual violence, set up the Stand to End Rape initiative to  help raise awareness about violence against women and girls through policy advocacy, prevention and support for victims. The organization trains healthcare providers on sexual violence response mechanisms, donates HIV test kits to community health care centers and more. Her advocacy has reached over 200,000 people and provided pro bono medical, legal, mental health and empowerment services to thousands of victims.

According to News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Buhari defeated the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, and other presidential candidates with over 15,191,847 votes, winning in 19 of the states.

You may recall that on that date, he declared his intentions to run for public office, disclosing that he would be vying for the Federal House of Representatives spot for the Eti Osa Constituency under Modern Democratic Party (MDP).

Over the past couple of months, we have watched Banky make bold and courageous strides in his campaign, and making admirable progress – defying the odds against him.

On Saturday 23rd February 2019, Banky took to Instagram to share the news that he had won the majority of votes at a Lekki Phase 1 polling unit, with 575 votes, beating PDP and APC with 540 and 454 votes respectively.

“Thank you to EVERYONE who voted, volunteered and donated. Collation of all polling units in Eti-Osa is still ongoing, but regardless of the final outcome, please take a GOOD LOOK at how we won my polling unit in Lekki 1!!! No Godfather, logo issues, crowd sourced fundraising, online trolling.. many said we were wasting our time, but we took our unknown party and built our agent structure in less than 3 months – and we upset the big boys in multiple polling units.
We proved that it CAN be done. 
The movement has begun. We must sustain this momentum. This is only the beginning. 
#MDP #StrongerTogether #BankOnBanky.”

Although collation is still ongoing and we are all waiting on INEC for the final announcement of results, it looks like he stands a great chance of winning. Regardless of the final outcome, he has inspired enough people in our generation to realize what they can achieve if they stand up for themselves and stand together.

Well done Banky!

One of the causes she is currently advocating for is the ‘Yaba Market March’ movement, which was started by Damilola Marcus.  You may recall that Damilola along with a group of women, had organized and embarked on a peaceful market protest at Yaba market a few weeks ago. The rationale behind the protest was to stop women from being victims of marketplace groping, abuse and even physical assault.

The women marched peacefully, urging men at the market not to harass them, as they chanted their slogan, “stop touching us.” They were not deterred be the aggressiveness of the men present. The very next day, there were reports from women saying they had visited Yaba market and no one had touched them, as a direct result of the march.

Toni Tones heard about the movement via social media, and was deeply moved by their cause. Consequently, she sought to help them develop sustainable measures to ensure that women continue to remain safe while visiting the market.

To this end, she facilitated a meeting with activist, her Excellency, Dolapo Osinbajo, wife of the Vice President of Nigeria, to discuss ways in which the government could help support the noble cause.

Her Excellency, graciously hosted Toni Tones and the women who engaged in the market march at her home, where they discussed the market march agenda and the different ways the government could render support.

The meeting ended on a very positive note, with lots of impactful reforms deliberated on.

Osinbajo also came up with an additional slogan for the movement, as follows: “I’m shopping no touching.”

Photo Credit: Toni Tones

Many people know Idia as the glamorous personality on their TV screens, but what few know is that she has always been passionate about giving back to the continent, and has been doing so for many years, albeit, silently. However, she has now decided to officially launch the NGO because she desires to effect change on a massive, sustainable scale.

The IDIA Project was founded based on the premise that more people have access to various media channels; and viewer engagement online is growing rapidly. However, most of the content is negative—depicting natural disasters, political instability, recession and economic downturn.

The International Development Initiative in Africa seeks to attract increased investment, capital flow and funding; by instilling hope and a renewed faith in Africa through providing an Africa-owned framework and narrative for development. Standing as the continent’s media partner and platform to showcase its progress at regional and international levels through our reports.

IDIA’s mission is to eradicate poverty, promote sustainable growth and development, integrate Africa in the world economy, and accelerate the empowerment of women, men and children by telling the other half of the story.

To this end, they will showcase Africa’s commitment to good governance, democracy, human rights and conflict resolution; and the recognition of bodies that are creating exemplary platforms that will increase employment, attract investment and long-term economic growth.

Watch trailer about the initiative:

Stay tuned for more updates on The IDIA Project.

Visit: theidiaproject.com

Social Media:@theidiaproject

Adekunle, who is 26-years-old, released the world’s first gaming robot, MekaMon, in 2017. What makes this gaming robot unique is it’s Augmented Reality (AR) capabilities – an unfamiliar concept in video-gaming that he developed while in school.

According to Tech Target, “Augmented reality is the integration of digital information with the user’s environment in real time. Unlike virtual reality, which creates a totally artificial environment, augmented reality uses the existing environment and overlays new information on top of it.”

Silas is believed to be among the best brains in the field of robotics and one of the leading robotics engineers in the world.

In November 2017, after pitching the MekaMon unit to one of the Apple’s investors, his idea was thought to be a truly innovatve one. The products now sit proudly on Apple Store shelves across the UK and US, and shipping to a number of European countries.

Speaking on reports circulating that the Apple deal has made him become the highest paid robotics engineer in the world, Silas told Business Insider:

“We were slightly surprised to see that statement being reported. The other major inaccuracy is the ‘deal with Apple’ – MekaMon is available on Apple, but we launched on there a year ago – and the leap in logic that said launch makes him the highest paid robotics engineer is not factual.

It’s certainly very flattering but not true just yet. Having MekaMon listed on Apple last year was a big step forward for Reach and we’ll continue to work to get our technology in the hands of as many people as possible.”

Naija no dey carry last. Keep achieving these milestones, Silas. We are so proud of you!

Photo Credit: Reach Robotics

Adenike, who was reported missing a few days ago was found dead in Akure, the state capital, at her boyfriend’s house, Vanguard reports. Sources say they had been dating for a couple of years but broke up for a long while, and recently reconnected.

She was reportedly found dead under the bed of her Abuja-based boyfriend, Adeyemi Alao, in Oke-Aro area of the city on Thursday, after she was allegedly murdered for money rituals, Guardian reports.

Reports state that Khadijat, who lived at State House Villa, around the permanent site of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, and was a final year student of the institution, was reported missing for six days by her friends and family.

While confirming the incident, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Femi Joseph, noted that the body of the deceased was found, following a tip-off. Joseph added that some arrests had been made in connection with the death of Khadijat, assuring that full briefing would be conducted in the next 48 hours by the command after the completion of investigations.

This is sad news , the whole incident  got me really worried because I feel like as single ladies, we need to be cautious and smart when dealing with the opposite sex. I mean, no lady should risk her life for the sake of any relationship.

The rate at which young men with evil intentions are looking for money these days is very alarming. They can take drastic measures to achieve wealth overnight. While we’re not accusing Alao of killing his girlfriend (because innocent until proven guilty right? Plus investigations are still ongoing), there is no doubt that she died under very suspicious circumstances while visiting him.

Given the situation, I would like to share some safety tips for all the young women out there who are currently in a relationship or about to go on a first date:

1. 1. Please tell your bestie, sister or anybody close to you about your weekend getaway with boo. Your safety is very important.
   2. If you are meeting boo for the first time after a long time, I would advice that you meet at a public place instead of a private location i.e his house. This is to ensure that if things start to go awry, you are in control of the situation since you are on neutral ground. People do change, keep that in mind.

3.  Be wary of the new friends you make, especially anyone introduced by a business associate or friends. Don’t socialize with strangers too soon and be very sensitive

4. Trust your intuition.

5. Limit your alcohol consumption when visiting anyone, I guess ladies can be easily taken advantage of when they are intoxicated.