When Team Shield was announced as one of the winners of the 2024 Mega-Designathon, we knew our journey was only just beginning. We didn’t just want to design a solution; we wanted to build a “shield” for the health and futures of young women.
This week, that vision became a reality through Project ADVAC. From the classrooms of Moremi High School to the hearts of the community, here is how we spent a whirlwind week turning advocacy into action.
The Foundation: Education and Consent
Our mission began on Monday with a vital visit to Moremi Girls School. We believe that health interventions should always start with understanding. We spent the day educating the students, answering their questions, and discussing the life-saving importance of vaccination. To ensure a collaborative approach, we distributed consent forms for the students to take home. We know that for a project like ADVAC to succeed, we need the “Shield” to extend to the home, ensuring parents are informed and empowered partners in their daughters’ health.
Winning Hearts at the PTA
We took our mission to the parents. Attending the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) meeting was a highlight of the project. It was an opportunity to speak heart-to-heart with the guardians of these young women.
We shared the facts about Cervical Cancer and the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), debunking myths and sharing informative flyers. The reception was incredibly moving—the parents didn’t just listen; they welcomed us with open arms, commending the drive for impact that started at the Mega-Designathon.
The Results of our Outreach:
- Screened: 27 parents/participants
- Enrolled: 16 parents (successfully completing our enrollment goal!)
- Community Care: As a token of appreciation for their time and commitment to their children’s health, we provided detergent to the parents—a small gesture to say “thank you” for being part of this journey.
The Milestone: 25 Lives Protected
All the preparation led to our final goal: Vaccination Day. We are thrilled to announce that we successfully vaccinated 25 girls at Moremi High School. This isn’t just a statistic; it represents 25 young women who are now better protected against the threat of cervical cancer. It marks a significant milestone in our efforts to reduce health disparities and empower the next generation.
A Heartfelt Thank You
This achievement was a team effort. We extend our deepest gratitude to:
- NIMR (Nigerian Institute of Medical Research)
- 4CbyC
- Our dedicated partners and supporters.
Your unwavering encouragement and technical support have been the catalyst for this success. You helped us move from a design concept to a clinical reality.
What’s Next for Team Shield?
Project ADVAC is more than a one-time event; it is a commitment. As we celebrate these 25 girls, we are already looking ahead to the next school, the next PTA meeting, and the next milestone.
Together, we are making a meaningful impact. Together, we are the shield.
✨ Project ADVAC Continues
