Global Youth Coalition Member Feature: Itohowo Tom

Photo from: https://streetproject.org.ng/about-spf-community/

1. Where are you connected right now? Tell us about the work you're doing.
I live in Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria. I’m currently working with the Street Project Foundation, a social transformation initiative where young people use creative arts as a tool to address societal issues in their communities.

2. How did you first get involved in road safety and how long have you been working in the road safety and sustainable mobility field? 
After a fatal road accident that involved one of my family members, the need to be conscious while on the road has never left my memory. That’s how I became interested in road safety and why I seek ways to make the roads safer for youths. To this end as a spoken word artist, I use my art, (spoken words poetry) to address this and encourage young people to be committed to road safety measures.

3. Can you tell us a little bit about the road safety and sustainable mobility situation in your area? 
Everyone wants to be safe but safety on the road depends on the road conditions and the user’s knowledge. Many still violate road safety laws. There is a challenge to overcome when it comes to people being more responsible road users but the government constantly makes efforts to ensure the safety of citizens on the road.

4. Why do you think it's important to include young people in local and global road safety efforts? 
Young people have the energy to work and can be proactive during rescue missions.  

5. Why did you join the Global Youth Coalition for Road Safety? 
I want to be part of the change mantra team to sensitize youths on the importance of safety rules.

Photo from: https://streetproject.org.ng/newsletter-street-light-3/

6. What are your comments on the Youth Coalition? Its activities? Its opportunities? 
The Youth Coalition to me is a stitch in time. Looking back at the achievements and networking of young people across different countries in just a few years is really commendable. With this commitment and consistency of members, the Youth Coalition is expected to achieve greater success in the near future. We have various capacity development opportunities offered by means of platforms like the YOURS Academy amongst others.

7. Any messages for people who have not yet joined the Youth Coalition? 
Everyone deserves to be safe on the road therefore safety knowledge is important to an environment free of road crashes. I, therefore, implore young people to join the coalition.