The FATE Foundation has effectively trained 320 potential entrepreneurs through its Aspiring Entrepreneurs Programme (AEP) Futuremakers edition. This endeavor aims to address inequality in Nigeria by fostering economic inclusion for young individuals in underserved communities, including youths and persons with disabilities.
About the Initiative:
- Standard Chartered Bank’s Global Initiative: Futuremakers, part of Standard Chartered Bank’s global initiative, aims to combat inequality and promote economic inclusion.
- Target Audience: It focuses on young people in underserved communities, with a special emphasis on youths and persons with disabilities.
- Sponsorship and Assistance: The two-year initiative was funded by the Standard Chartered Foundation (SBF) and received support from Youth Business International (YBI).
Program Implementation:
- Training and Empowerment: The program trained 320 participants across eight cohorts, with each cohort consisting of 40 entrepreneurs.
- Locations: Training sessions were conducted in Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, and Ekiti States.
- Gender Representation: There was a notable emphasis on female participation, with 70% of the participants being female and 30% male.
Statements from Organizers:
- Adenike Adeyemi, Executive Director of FATE Foundation:
- Announcement: Adeyemi expressed delight in the successful completion of the FutureMakers project, highlighting the impact of collaborative efforts and innovative entrepreneurship.
- Empowerment: She emphasized how, with support from Standard Chartered Foundation and Youth Business International, they’ve empowered a new generation of young entrepreneurs to contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth and job creation.
Corporate Support:
- Joke Adu, AGM/Acting Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand and Marketing, Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria Limited:
- Awareness Promotion: Adu expressed delight in hosting the inaugural SC Pop Up event, aimed at raising awareness of the bank’s Supplier Diversity and Inclusion strategy for small and women-owned businesses.
- Support for Entrepreneurs: She highlighted the bank’s strategic support for aspiring entrepreneurs, including those in tertiary institutions and entrepreneurs living with disabilities, through various Futuremakers Community Impact initiatives.
Impact and Vision:
- Economic Growth and Job Creation: FATE Foundation remains committed to shaping the future of entrepreneurship in Nigeria by empowering young entrepreneurs to drive economic growth and job creation.
- Collaboration: The successful completion of the FutureMakers project underscores the effectiveness of collaboration between nonprofit organizations, international foundations, and corporate sponsors.
This initiative not only equips aspiring entrepreneurs with vital skills and support but also plays a crucial role in fostering economic inclusion and diminishing inequality in Nigeria.
