Osazee Isonarae leads the Initiative for Youths Resource Centre (also known as iYouth Resource Centre), a non-governmental organization that champions technology-driven initiatives and the digital transformation of small businesses. As a trailblazer in his field, Osazee was part of the inaugural cohort of President Barack Obama’s Young African Leadership Initiative (YALI) Regional Leadership Centre in 2015. Osazee has partnered with organizations such as the National Youth Service Corps, Osun Youth Empowerment Scheme, IBM Digital Nation Africa, and the U.S. Mission Nigeria, to empower youths and small businesses. Osazee holds a degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technology, as well as a postgraduate diploma in Education.

IVLP Impact Award Project: CyberSafe Community Initiative

The CyberSafe Community Initiative empowers youth and small businesses in Ikeja, Lagos State; Ibadan, Oyo State; and Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria, by increasing cybersecurity awareness and enhancing digital literacy. Through workshops, training programs, conference and community outreach events, the project will educate at least 310 participants on cybersecurity best practices, equip them with essential digital skills, and foster a culture of online safety. Through proactive engagement and strategic interventions, the CyberSafe Community Initiative aims to create a safer and more secure digital environment for all community members.

“I aim to build a cyber-resilient community, empowering youth and small businesses with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate the digital landscape safely and securely, unlocking new opportunities for innovation, growth, and prosperity in an increasingly connected world.” - Osazee Isonarae

IVLP Exchange Experience 

Osazee participated in the IVLP project Advancing an Open, Reliable, and Secure Digital Economy organized by the U.S. Department of State and the Institute for International Education, in partnership with Global Ties Iowa, Global Ties San Francisco, Global Ties Sacramento, the World Affairs Council of New Hampshire, and New York Program Branch.

Osazee’s exchange experience led to the development of his project: “[I was] inspired by discussions with law enforcement professionals in New Hampshire and guided by the innovative models showcased by Professor Mukund of Stevens Institute of Technology at Hoboken in New Jersey and Greg Morrisett, Dean and Vice Provost of Cornell Tech, New York.”

 “By integrating these invaluable lessons [learned on the IVLP], we're not just safeguarding our community from cyber threats – we're nurturing a generation of digital leaders equipped to thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape.”- Osazee Isonarae

U.S. Communities Visited   

Sacramento, CA; San Francisco, CA; Washington, DC; Iowa City, IA; New York, NY; Manchester, NH

Country: Nigeria

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