Lagos–– On Monday, the U.S. Consulate General, in collaboration with the Ascend Studios Foundation, celebrated the successful completion of the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) Returned Migrant Training Program.
To support the full reintegration of returning migrants, 20 returnees were selected to participate in the program. Participants received business management training covering financial management, marketing, operations, human resources, etc. They also benefited from mentorship and advice from seasoned entrepreneurs and industry experts, including AWE alumni.
At the event, U.S. Consulate Public Affairs Officer Julie McKay delivered a speech highlighting the importance of promoting an enabling environment that reduces barriers and facilitates women’s full participation in the economy. McKay noted that the program was designed to foster the resilience, creativity and determination of female returnees to create successful and sustainable businesses.
“Women’s empowerment and economic integration are essential to Nigeria’s long-term economic development,” McKay said. “When women are economically empowered, they reinvest in their families and communities, producing a multiplier effect that drives economic growth and contributes to global peace and stability. »
Inspired by the American series ––Shark Tank––, the returned migrants also presented their business ideas during the closing event in front of a jury made up of AWE program graduates, to invest in their businesses. Oluwakemi Oladapo from Oyo State won first prize in the business presentation competition. In recognition of his outstanding performance, the United States Consulate General awarded him $2,000 in seed funding to expand his leather bag manufacturing business. Chylian Azuh, a budding entrepreneur from Delta State, and Osunalele Osanyanmo, a promising businesswoman from Edo State, secured the second and third positions and received $1,500 and $700 funding respectively from startup.
Some participants shared their personal journeys, highlighting the transformative impact of the program on their lives and businesses. Their stories resonated with audiences, showcasing the potential of women entrepreneurs, particularly women from underserved communities, to overcome challenges and start and grow successful businesses.
The Managing Director of Ascend Studios Foundation, Ms. Inya Lawal, commended the commitment and dedication demonstrated by the participants throughout the programme. “The AWE Returned Migrant Cohort presented a unique opportunity for participants to connect with mentors and make invaluable connections for their entrepreneurial journey. We look forward to witnessing their continued growth and success,” added Lawal.
The success of the U.S. Consulate’s AWE Return Migrant Cohort serves as an example of the positive outcomes that can be achieved through inclusive entrepreneurship programs. Since 2019, 770 Nigerian businesswomen have participated in AWE.
