The Ultimate Destiny Uplifters Foundation Africa, a non-governmental organization, has recently empowered 20 young entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 to 45 with seed capital, mentorship, and vital logistics essential for their growth.
During a mentoring summit held in Onitsha, Anambra State, entrepreneurs Chiamaka Amubi-Onusonye, Amarachi Okpala-Onwuamaegbu, and Ebenebe Bethel Christian were awarded grants of N1 million each after their participation in the program.
Addressing attendees at the summit’s grand finale, Mr Smart Ezuma, the founding president of Ultimate Destiny Uplifters Foundation Africa, highlighted the foundation’s aim to address leadership disparities in Africa through such initiatives. He stressed the significance of mentoring young entrepreneurs and cultivating them into future leaders and successful entrepreneurs.
Under the theme “Creating a sustainable Africa through active leadership,” Ezuma urged Nigerian youths to embrace innovation and be deliberate about shaping their futures. He emphasized the pivotal role of leadership in shaping the continent’s future and encouraged individuals aged 18 to 45 to be intentional about defining their purpose and making significant contributions towards their goals.
Former Transcorp boss, Mr Valentine Ozigbo, emphasized the importance of emotional intelligence in achieving success across various fields. He encouraged the organizers, especially the youth, to demonstrate passion and strive for excellence, citing these as vital elements for attaining success.
Sharing his life experiences, Dr Ikenna Ifejiofor, Managing Director of Ike God Foods Industries Ltd, stressed the pivotal role of mindset in leadership growth. Ifejiofor urged participants to dream big while commending the significance of starting small.
During the summit, various speakers including Pastor Sam Obiorah of Life of Faith Gospel Assembly, Ngozi Ezeasor, Oluwatoyin Taiwo Banjo, Dr Godson Iroh, and Prof Olusegun Sogbesan from Onitsha Business School highlighted the importance of skill acquisition programs for self-sufficiency, noting the scarcity of white-collar jobs in Nigerian public offices.
The summit’s highlight was a business pitching competition among selected entrepreneurs, with three winners each receiving a grant of one million naira to bolster their businesses, furthering the foundation’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurial ventures.