Panel discussion: (L-R) Dr. Naomi Osemedua (Compere/Founder, Women with stories), Bem Pever ( Director, Voices Within/ CEO Take7 Media), Emmanuela Azu ( Head of Programmes and Legal Women Advocates Research and Documentation Center (WARDC)), Dr. Samira Buhari (Founder, Daurama Foundation), Dorothy Njemanze (Founder, Dorothy Njemanze Foundation),Yewande Gbola-Awopetu (Head, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Response Unit, Federal Ministry of Justice)
The Daurama Foundation held the premiere of its advocacy film, Voices Within, at Silverbird Cinema, Jabi Lake Mall, Abuja. As part of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, the event united influential voices, survivors, policymakers, and changemakers under the global theme “UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls.”
The evening began with a red carpet reception that created an atmosphere of purpose and solidarity. Advocates, community leaders, and representatives from key organisations engaged with the powerful narratives explored in Voices Within.
Dr. Samira Buhari, President of the Daurama Foundation, opened the event with an impassioned call for collective action:
“Voices Within is a rallying cry for change. Every scene, every story, and each character reflects a reality that many endure in silence. Today, we must unite not only to watch but to listen, learn, and act. The fight to end gender-based violence begins with each of us here.”
Voices Within Premiere snapshot: (L-R) Mrs. Patience Ekeoba (National Programme Officer, UN Women), Dr. Samira Buhari (Founder, Daurama Foundation), and Ambassador Pieter Leenknegt (Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria).
Dr. Samira Buhari, Founder of Daurama Foundation, with the talented cast and crew of Voices Within
Patience Ekeoba, National Programme Officer for UN Women Nigeria, delivered a moving keynote address:
“Gender-based violence is a scar on humanity that demands immediate action. Through Voices Within, we are reminded that awareness is the first step, but action is what creates real change. Advocacy like this is a vital tool in turning societal awareness into meaningful progress.”
The Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria, Ambassador Pieter Leenknegt, who attended the event, shared his impression, stating, “I certainly enjoyed the showing.”
Bem Pever, producer of Voices Within and CEO of Take 7 Media, spoke passionately about the role of storytelling in advocacy:
“Stories have the power to change hearts, minds, and societies. Through Voices Within, we are not just telling a story—we are igniting a movement. I urge men to step into the conversation, be allies, and actively participate in creating a world free from violence. Change starts with us.”
Mrs. Patience Ekeoba, National Programme Officer, UN Women delivering her keynote speech, during the premiere of Voices Within in Commemoration of the 16 Days of Activism against gender based violence
The screening was followed by a panel discussion featuring thought leaders and advocates who provided invaluable insights into combating gender-based violence.
- Dorothy Njemanze, Founder of the Dorothy Njemanze Foundation, stressed the importance of breaking societal stigmas:
“Silence allows violence to thrive. As a society, we must create safe spaces where survivors feel supported, heard, and empowered to seek justice.” - Yewande Gbola-Awopetu, Head of the Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Response Unit, Federal Ministry of Justice, emphasised the importance of integrating legal and community efforts:
“Justice isn’t just about laws, it’s ensuring survivors have the support they need to come forward and rebuild their lives. Advocacy like this film is essential to that process.”
The Daurama Foundation is proud to announce that Voices Within is now accessible to a global audience. To watch this compelling docudrama and join the movement for change, visit the official YouTube link here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2MOOjBMffKU
As the 16 Days of Activism continue, the Daurama Foundation reaffirms its commitment to raising awareness, fostering dialogue, and driving meaningful change. Voices Within serves as a powerful reminder that collective action and community engagement can turn the tide against gender-based violence.
