About ZOF

Transforming lives through education and empowerment across Africa

Our Story

The Zenaida Odimegwu Foundation was established with a clear mission: to empower vulnerable, marginalized children and youths across Africa through quality education. Recognizing the persistent challenge of learning poverty where children attend school but fail to acquire foundational literacy and numeracy skills, we set out to create transformative solutions.

Our journey began with a simple belief: every child, regardless of background or circumstance, deserves access to quality education and the opportunity to become a functional, literate individual capable of driving change in their communities. What started as a grassroot initiative has grown into a comprehensive education and empowerment program reaching thousands of beneficiaries.

Today, ZOF operates across multiple communities in Nigeria, running learning centers, advocacy campaigns, and mentorship programs. We combine evidence-based teaching methods with community engagement to create sustainable, scalable solutions to the education crisis.

Mission

To empower the next generation through education, enabling them to drive real change in their communities.

Vision

A future where every child, regardless of background, has access to quality education and opportunities for lifelong success.

Core Values

  • Equity in Education
  • Integrity & Accountability
  • Innovation
  • Child Protection
  • Community Empowerment
  • Sustainability

Our Approach

Hybrid Learning Model

We combine pre-recorded digital learning videos with on-site facilitators to create flexible, accessible education that meets children where they are.

Teaching at the Right Level (TaRL)

Our evidence-based teaching method groups children by learning level rather than age, ensuring each child progresses at their own pace.

Comprehensive Support

Beyond academics, we provide mentorship, leadership training, scholarships, and safe learning spaces free from abuse and exploitation.

Data-Driven Impact

Daily performance tracking, learning assessments, and rigorous monitoring & evaluation ensure continuous improvement and measurable outcomes.

Leadership Team

Zenaida Odimegwu

Founder & Executive Director

Visionary leader dedicated to transforming education across Africa through innovative, community-centered approaches.

Mercy Egwakhide

COO

Cynthia Bright

Head of schools

Main Aims

Foundational Skills

Inculcate foundational literacy and numeracy skills using a hybrid learning model for out-of-school children.

Scalable Systems

Inculcate foundational literacy and numeracy skills using a hybrid learning model for out-of-school children.

Youth Empowerment

Inculcate foundational literacy and numeracy skills using a hybrid learning model for out-of-school children.

Advocacy

Inculcate foundational literacy and numeracy skills using a hybrid learning model for out-of-school children.