In the vibrant town of Shagamu, Ogun State, an extraordinary event took place. It was the annual Smiley Faces event organized by the Sparkle Foundation, dedicated to bringing joy and support to underprivileged children. This year, the event aligned with the noble goal of Sustainable Development Goal 4, which emphasizes the importance of Quality Education.

On the memorable day of May 7th, 2023, Wesley Primary School 2, Oko, Shagamu, was bustling with excitement as the preparations for the event were in full swing. The dedicated team at Sparkle Foundation meticulously organized the distribution of school bags, water bottles, and writing materials to 200 identified orphans from five different communities in Shagamu. These materials would empower the children on their educational journey and enhance their learning experience.

However, fate had a different plan in store for this special day. As the event was about to commence, dark clouds loomed overhead, and rain poured down heavily, threatening to dampen the spirits of the organizers and the children. In a quick change of plans, an alternative venue had to be arranged on short notice. Despite the challenges, the team rallied together and ensured that the event would go on.

With the new venue secured, the event kicked off with games, gale competitions, and choreography. Laughter and excitement filled the air as the children reveled in the activities planned for them. Although the limited space in the hall presented its own set of challenges, the resourceful MC adapted the games to fit the surroundings, ensuring that the children had a fantastic time, oblivious to any inconveniences.

The highlight of the day was the thrilling treasure hunt, where the children scurried around searching for hidden prizes. The winners were rewarded with cash prizes, with the first, second, and third-place recipients receiving 20,000, 15,000, and 10,000 naira respectively. But the surprises didn’t end there. The third-place winner was treated to a delicious lunch at a fine restaurant in Shagamu, while the first and second-place winners were granted a day of adventure at the prestigious OOPL resort in Abeokuta.

The OOPL resort proved to be a magical escape for the deserving winners. They explored the wonders of the Museum, encountered fascinating wildlife at the Wildlife Park, enjoyed the thrills of the Cinema, and embraced the joy of the Amusement Park. Their day was made even more special as they shared a delightful lunch with their guardians, creating cherished memories that would last a lifetime.

The Sparkle Foundation’s Children’s Day Smiley Faces event was not just about creating a fun-filled day for the children; it was about making a lasting impact on their lives. By providing scholastic materials and supporting their educational journey, the foundation aimed to ensure their retention in school and improve their learning outcomes. The event was a testament to our commitment to brightening the future of these underprivileged children and giving them the tools, they need to succeed.