Nigeria has two major religious groups, Christians and Muslims. The country has experienced increasing disunity among Nigerians because of recent terrorist attacks and needed something to bring people of different backgrounds together. Blessing Ogbu (YES 2013-2014, Nigeria, Clifton Forge, VA) became the bridge to these differences. 

Blessing Ogbu found the diversity amongst people of various cultures and religions in the U.S. to be interesting and wanted to learn more about interacting with people of diverse backgrounds. 

Ogbu's idea to hold workshops about culture and religion inclusivity became a reality after being selected to represent Nigeria's YES Alumni Association at the YES Interfaith Harmony Workshop in Morrocco in March 2016.

"With all the knowledge I received from the workshop, I knew I had to put it into action," Ogbu said.

Ogbu formed her first workshop as a one-day event and gained sponsorship from the YES program. Sharing what she knew about intercultural and interfaith awareness with the next generation of Nigerian leaders, Ogbu's first workshop focused on secondary school students.

The workshop allowed its attendees the opportunity to discuss problems Nigerians face. The workshops's participants also watched the movie, "Ben Hur," to learn lessons about intercultural and interfaith issues. 

The workshop was a success. Ogbu plans to have another workshop in the upcoming year. For the future workshop, Ogbu hopes to incorporate testimonials from previous participants about the impact they've experienced in their own lives from attending the workshop and learning about the cultures and religions present in their communities.

Change cannot begin without someone willing to take the initiative. Through her efforts in making her community more culturally aware, Ogbu exemplifies a true leader.

Congratulations on your commendable efforts, Blessing!