Past Sessions
BARY HISTORY
In 2009, I founded the FIYE Foundation (Femi Ikotun Youth Empowerment Foundation)—a youth empowerment platform with a clear vision: to raise young, relevant agents of change—here and now—for God’s glory—by inspiring them to discover their true purpose early in life.
Under this platform, we launched a monthly youth empowerment seminar in August 2010 called BARY with Femi (BARY short for Become A Relevant Youth). These gatherings focused on helping young people grow through purpose discovery, vision building, talent development, goal setting, character formation, and future readiness.
Over the years, we’ve hosted incredible guest speakers from various walks of life, including Mr. Olakunle Soriyan, Pastor Ehis Agboga, Pastor Abiodun Doherty, and Bishop Samson Jedefe, along with powerful gospel artists such as Tosin Bee, Odunayo Aboderin, The Topsticks (A professional female Drummer), and other gifted music and dance groups who inspired our audiences through worship and creativity.
To provide hands-on growth opportunities, we introduced the BARY Business Seminars, where young people received practical training in fields like fashion design, makeup artistry, computer literacy, entrepreneurship, and other creative crafts.
We also extended our impact to higher university students through the BARY Student Seminars—empowering students across higher institutions—and through humanitarian projects like the BARY Christmas Hamper Initiative. In 2012, young people united to raise about £1,000, providing Christmas hampers for 50 families of fatherless children, a powerful act of compassion and community.
Another key initiative, the BARY Leadership Seminar, equipped teenagers with timeless principles of servant leadership and helped them understand how to use their unique gifts to make a difference in the world.
Today, that same vision, passion, and drive continue to grow under a new platform—BARY Academy—where we remain committed to raising a generation of purposeful, empowered, and relevant young leaders.
Testimonials from BARY Seminar Participants
As an introvert with low self-esteem, BARY transformed me. I now have the confidence to face audiences and I’ve discovered my purpose. BARY continues to inspire me to aim higher and succeed.
Paul Ayu
BARY Seminar Participant
Testimonials from BARY Seminar Participants
The BARY Seminar taught me how to think like an entrepreneur—finding solutions and identifying hidden opportunities.
Korede Tuga
BARY Seminar Participant
Testimonials from BARY Seminar Participants
BARY gave me the confidence to speak and inspire others. Meeting Topsticks, the female drummer, at a 2012 seminar motivated me to pursue music. Today, I’m a gospel artiste. BARY also taught me practical lessons in fundraising and networking.
Okacha Osita Peter
BARY Seminar Participant
Testimonials from BARY Seminar Participants
BARY helped me discover my true self and align it with my purpose. A highlight was the 2012 BARY Leadership Training with Pastor Ehis Agboga. I remain grateful to God, Femi Ikotun, and BARY.
Ifeanyi Akanegbu
BARY Seminar Participant
Testimonials from BARY Seminar Participants
I’m proud to be part of BARY Seminars. They inspired me to pursue my dream of becoming a fashion designer. Though I’m just starting, I believe I will succeed. Special thanks to Femi Ikotun, the organizers, and the fashion designers who shared their experiences.
Esther Osimadi
BARY Seminar Participant
Testimonials from BARY Seminar Participants
I attended the first BARY Seminar in 2010 when I had just moved to Lagos. The program taught me the power of temperament and its role in shaping my future. Before then, I was confused about my career path. But after the program, my mindset changed completely. I developed confidence, discovered my temperament, and started living intentionally.
Paul Kazchukz -Nigeria
BARY Seminar Participant
Testimonials from BARY Seminar Participants
I attended the first BARY Seminar at age 13, and it changed my perspective on life. Over the years, the teachings on purpose and God-centred living shaped me into who I am today. My greatest achievement so far is giving my life to Christ, which BARY played a huge role in. What sets BARY apart is its strong foundation on God’s Word in inspiring young people.
Grace Omigie - Nigeria
BARY Seminar Participant
Testimonials from BARY Seminar Participants
Even before I attended BARY Seminars, Femi Ikotun had already taught me the importance of living a relevant life. But after attending the programs, my eyes were opened to practical truths about what young people must do to become who God wants us to be—spiritually, mentally, and financially. Today, I mentor younger ones, thanks to FIYE and BARY.
Igwebuike Jacob Ekene- Nigeria
BARY Seminar Participant
Testimonials from BARY Seminar Participants
Femi, as I fondly call him, is passionate, vibrant, spirit-filled, and committed to living and fulfilling God’s purpose.
Mr. Joe Igbuzor- Nigeria
Conflict Resolution Expert, Gbuzzorr Global Services Limited, Nigeria
Testimonials from BARY Seminar Participants
Femi Ikotun believes in people’s dreams regardless of their background. He goes the extra mile to bring out the best in everyone. His books and teachings have helped me and my friends greatly. His impact is undeniable.
Tosin Olajide (Late)- Nigeria
FIYE Foundation Executive
Testimonials from BARY Seminar Participants
Femi Ikotun is a dynamic young man passionate about his goals. His youth programs have transformed countless lives. This work will certainly bless you.
Olumide Akinyemi-Martins - Nigeria
C.E.O, Meeday Confectionery
Testimonials from BARY Seminar Participants
Femi Ikotun is a positive thinker who sees greatness in everyone. He is a motivator who has inspired many young people through his books and seminars. He consistently helps teenagers and young adults discover their purpose. He is truly a blessing to this generation.
Tomiwa Rufus Alo -Nigeria
FIYE Foundation Executive
Testimonials from BARY Seminar Participants
I attended my first BARY Seminar in September 2010. I remember sitting at the front row with a friend while Femi Ikotun and Pastor Biodun Doherty spoke. Femi taught about catching a clear vision, while Pastor Doherty emphasized the importance of acting quickly on one’s vision. That day, my vision became clear, and I received the boldness to begin. Since then, my little organization has been impacting lives. I made up my mind never to miss a BARY Seminar and to support the Foundation in every way possible.
Paul Ogbode – Nigeria
FIYE Foundation Executive
Past Publications
