Many 19-year-olds will be spending the summer partying, travelling or relaxing. But not Victoria Azubuike.

Many 19-year-olds will be spending the summer partying, travelling or relaxing. But not Victoria Azubuike.

The Warwick University student has decided to spend her time off from a management degree launching a project to inspire young underprivileged women to break boundaries and live their dreams.

It’s something Victoria, of Stock Orchard Crescent, Holloway, feels passionate about. Coming from a disadvantaged background she realised at a young age she would need to make things happen for herself. And it was that kind of thinking that landed her the position on Islinton’s first youth council in 2012 at the age of 15.

“I haven’t come from a wealthy background,” she told the Gazette. “But I always wanted to have a really good job. I was looking for opportunities but didn’t know where to go or who to go to.

“At university I started to reflect and realised the opportunities I was given – [going to uni, an internship at Lloyds of London, and the council role] – were because I went out and searched.

“Now I want to give something back and help young women who don’t have anyone helping them.”

Inspired by Oprah Winfrey, Michelle Obama and most importantly her mum Elizabeth Dikechioma, Victoria launched The Us Programme just weeks ago. It will offer support and opportunities to learn from successful women in range of industries, who are queueing up to help out.

“I’ve spent this summer sending out emails and going around my community asking people to help,” added Victoria. “I’m constantly stressed but the thought that I can help just one girl is enough to keep me going.”

The programme is aimed at 14 to 19-year-olds, though Victoria said anyone outside of that range who wants to get involved can.

The first conference, named She Who Leads, is on September 8 at Mary’s Youth Organisation in Islington. It will feature case studies, a discussion with a panel of experts, workshops and mentoring opportunities.

It takes place from 5.30pm to 9.30pm and is free, but places are limited. Click here for tickets.

Check out The Us Programme on Twitter at @UsProgramme.