At just 16, Nazifi from stands out, not just for his skill in electronics repair, but for his empathy and courage to challenge harmful gender norms. Born into a large family of fifteen children, Nazifi grew up in a culture where boys were valued more than girls. In his words, “In my community, boys are always prioritized. Girls are seen as less.”
Even with his interest in electronics, Nazifi faced challenges at home. His older brother discouraged him from pursuing his passion, insisting he focused only on school. Dependent on his brother, Nazifi obeyed reluctantly until the day he attended a Girl-Led Research and Action Project sensitization session in July 2025.
During the training, Nazifi learned about family relationships through the intergenerational tool, and something changed within him. He realized he had the right to express his dreams respectfully and that communication could transform relationships. Armed with this confidence, he approached his brother again. This time, he spoke from a place of understanding and purpose.
His persistence paid off. His brother not only agreed but gave him ₦20,000 to start a small kiosk for electronic repairs. From that humble beginning, Nazifi’s life took a new turn. After school each day, he repaired appliances, earning about ₦5,000 weekly, enough to buy food items for his family. Soon, his savings allowed him to buy cows for grooming and open a game shop, expanding his small business.
But Nazifi’s transformation didn’t stop at economic empowerment. The training also reshaped his mindset about gender roles and equality. He began helping with house chores, a duty he once believed belonged only to his sisters. Now, he takes pride in supporting them and encourages other boys to do the same.
Inspired by his example, another boy from Kudai, Rabiu, also changed his attitude. Once known for mocking and fighting girls, Rabiu now calls himself a He-for-She advocate, teaching other boys to respect and protect girls.
“I now understand that girls deserve respect and equality. I support them in house chores and speak up against violence,” said Rabiu.
Through the Girl-Led Research and Action Project, boys like Nazifi and Rabiu are reshaping what it means to be young men in their community and turning empathy into action and proving that real change begins with understanding.
