In a heartfelt celebration of International Boys Day and Menstrual Hygiene Awareness Day, the Ruby Awareness Initiative Foundation extended support to 300 secondary school students in Asaba, Delta State, through the distribution of hygiene kits.
The donation, which took place on Thursday, June 5, 2025, during a one-day Students’ Forum, brought together public and private school students under the theme “Empowering the Next Generation for a Healthier Tomorrow.” The event aimed to promote awareness around hygiene, personal development, and mental well-being.
True to its core mission of supporting the boy-child, Ruby Initiative provided boys with body care packs including skincare products, hair care items, and towels. Schoolgirls also received menstrual hygiene kits and antiperspirants, demonstrating the foundation’s inclusive approach to youth empowerment.
Founder of the Ruby Awareness Initiative Foundation, Miss Omonigho Oborevwori, shared her inspiration for starting the NGO. Drawing from her time as a caregiver for children with special needs in the UK, she spoke about her desire to give voice and visibility to boys who often suffer in silence.
“The Ruby Awareness Initiative was born out of a personal desire to do more than watch children suffer. It’s about recognizing the silent burdens boys carry and building a support system that allows them to thrive,” Miss Oborevwori said.
She emphasized the need to nurture a generation of emotionally aware and resilient boys, urging society to collectively support the cause.
The event’s special guest of honor, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, wife of the Delta State Governor, lauded the foundation’s efforts. Represented by Ezinne Catherine Onyeme, wife of the Deputy Governor, she commended the initiative for addressing the growing challenges boys face in today’s society.
“Boys, once seen as the pride of the African home, now face increasing societal pressures and are vulnerable to harmful vices. Initiatives like this are timely and essential,” Deaconess Oborevwori stated. She also pledged her foundation, You Matter Charity Foundation, would collaborate with Ruby Initiative to extend support to more young people.
The forum also featured expert-led lectures on topics such as mental wellness, puberty, personal hygiene, and career guidance. Speakers included Dr. Israel Adaigho, Dr. Onyi Owa-Nwabuzo, and Mrs. Veronica Abang-Dove.
Students showcased their creativity through spoken word and a drama highlighting the everyday struggles of the boy-child.
One of the student beneficiaries, Master Dami Atsenuwa of Infant Jesus Academy, Asaba, expressed gratitude: “This program has given the boy-child a voice. I’m thankful for the support and the hygiene kits.”
