Social media became more than a pastime for many of us during the COVID-19 pandemic. For me, it became a point of curiosity. As someone driven by impact, I wanted to understand how digital platforms truly work beyond posting and scrolling. This led me to research deeply, earn the Google Digital Marketing Certificate, and take several copywriting courses that revealed the often-overlooked power behind digital media.
As I learned more, I began to notice something troubling. Many young people were using social media almost exclusively for entertainment, without recognising its potential as a tool for learning, influence, and opportunity. That realisation pushed me to look for ways to share practical insights with young people, helping them use social media to support their businesses, careers, and personal growth.
This intention led to the Digital Impact Session: How to Use Social Media for Social Good, held at NICON Plaza, Central Business District, Abuja. The event brought together participants from youth-led organisations, advocacy groups, and community schools. The goal was simple but important: to help young people understand how social media can be used responsibly and strategically to create positive change.
Social Media Beyond Entertainment
The session explored how social connections have shifted from physical spaces to digital platforms, increasing the amount of time people spend online. While this shift presents challenges, it also creates educational and developmental opportunities. I emphasised that when individuals share short videos, infographics, and interactive content that promote learning and social good, they contribute to responsible digital growth, especially for younger audiences.
Key discussions were centred around the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), responsible online behaviour, and using digital media as a tool for personal development and business growth. Participants were encouraged to think critically about the content they consume and share, and to understand the role they play in shaping online narratives.
Digital Responsibility and Online Safety
Another important focus of the session was digital safety. Participants were guided on the importance of verifying information, avoiding the spread of misinformation, and being mindful of false narratives. In a time when content travels quickly, understanding how to engage responsibly online is just as important as learning how to grow an audience.
Building Purpose-Driven Digital Presence
During the workshop, participants were introduced to content planning strategies, value-driven storytelling, and digital tools for amplifying causes. These are the same principles I apply in managing my Social Impact Blog, Extraordinary Woman Blog. We explored how to build an online presence that aligns with personal values while remaining authentic and impactful.
The session also highlighted how social media can be used not just to express opinions, but to lead conversations, influence communities, and support meaningful causes.
Reflections from Participants
The feedback from participants was deeply encouraging. Many described the session as timely and eye-opening.
One participant shared, “I never really saw how my online voice could be used beyond jokes, news, and entertainment. This session showed me how to create content that actually promotes change.”
Another noted, “I’ve always wanted to grow my business using social media, and this feels like a strong starting point for building something meaningful.”
Others shared that the workshop increased their confidence and motivation to use their platforms more intentionally and to explore ways to share their experiences in a way that inspires change.
Using Digital Tools with Intention
Young people today have access to more digital tools than any generation before them. However, this access also comes with the temptation to misuse these platforms in ways that can affect personal development and career growth. Throughout the session, participants were encouraged to view social media not just as a space for expression, but as a platform for leadership, influence, and contribution.
When used intentionally, social media becomes a powerful tool for social good—one that can support learning, business growth, advocacy, and long-term impact.
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