Our Work Based Learning Program
Work based learning is an educational strategy that helps to bridge the gap between school and work by
providing students with practical training and real-world work experiences. Our work-based learning
program is in place at a low income high school in Ojo, Lagos, where we work with about 100 students in
a cohort. Over 200 students have benefitted from this program and we are expanding to a new school in
the coming weeks. Our work-based learning program encompasses several components designed to help
students identify and build successful careers.
Our Alumni Network
Students who pass through our other programs have the opportunity to be in our alumni network.
This includes:
1. A virtual group where participants get resources, training and support to transition to postsecondary education and career
2. A career mentoring project which connects students to US professionals in their desired
career fields
3. The Work Experience Fellowship – A one-year internship for our high school graduates
awaiting admission into college. Participants get work experience, undergo academic tutoring
and earn a monthly stipend and grant towards university tuition.
Girls Empowerment Program
Girls Empowerment Program
The Crystal Lens Girls Empowerment Program was initially called Girls Career Acceleration Project,
piloted with a WIL fund in 2020 as part of the Crystal Lens Work-Based Learning Program. In 2022, it
evolved into a stand-alone program with more emphasis on working with teenage girls in their
journeys through life and helping them gain the right knowledge needed to build self-confidence,
independence and be empowered for the future. This is achieved through knowledge sharing via circle
meetings, book reviews and individual counseling sessions as needed. The components include:
1. Circle Meetings: This is a girls-only closed group where participants learn about issues relating
to health, finance, entrepreneurship and other personal developmental areas. Beyond
listening to seasoned facilitators, participants have access to a safe space to ask questions,
share their individual experiences and learn from one another during the weekly meetings. In
addition, participants are able to access sanitary and other female products based on needs.
2. Book Club: As part of the program, girls are encouraged to seek knowledge and excitement
through books. Hence, the book club creates a platform for participants to gain access to both
educational and fictional books, share knowledge via book review sessions and ultimately
increase their love for literature.
3. Counselling Sessions: Asides from group sessions, participants are able to communicate oneonone with an adult whenever they need to. These sessions generally involve helping the
girls work through unique challenges, make key decisions and navigate other life endeavors.
Counsellors are also able to connect participants to appropriate resources or professional
help as the case may be.