In a move that resonates with the drive for economic empowerment and gender inclusivity, Wema Bank has announced a groundbreaking partnership with the Entrepreneurial Development Centre of Pan-Atlantic University (EDC) and Mastercard to empower and train 10,000 young women across diverse businesses and vocations.
The announcement took center stage at a dynamic event named the “Transforming Nigerian Youth Programme,” held at Wema Bank’s headquarters in Marina, Lagos. The initiative underscores Wema Bank’s commitment to driving positive change in the lives of individuals, businesses, and communities.
Tunde Mabawonku, Wema Bank’s Executive Director of Retail and Digital Business, expressed the significance of this partnership. He noted that this collaboration stands as a powerful beginning, one that has the potential to foster inclusivity, propel the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and create legitimate job avenues for Nigeria’s vibrant youth. The envisioned transformation spans enterprises, families, and the entire nation.
Mabawonku said, “With a deep sense of pride, we assume the role of architects in this initiative, igniting a spark that holds the promise of setting a journey of growth and progress into motion.”
The Divisional Head of Retail and Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) at Wema Bank, Ayodele Olojede, elaborated on the intricacies of this transformative partnership. By empowering female customers, the initiative seeks to amplify their skills, unleash their potential, enhance employability, and, most crucially, equip them to become thriving entrepreneurs in their own right.
Olojede highlighted the essence of the alliance: “Through this partnership, Wema Bank’s valued female business owners will undergo comprehensive training facilitated by seasoned professionals from Pan-Atlantic University’s Entrepreneurial Development Centre. Among these individuals, 50 will be chosen to become certified Business Development Support Providers (BDSPs) through the SMEDAN program.”
Furthermore, Olojede stressed that the commitment to fostering exceptional entrepreneurship is backed by concrete support: “As the pioneers of this transformative capacity-building initiative, we are excited to observe the remarkable positive changes that will emerge from this program. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participants, both in-person and virtual.”
Wema Bank’s dedication to inclusivity has been exemplified by its establishment of SARA, a specialized proposition catering to women’s financial needs. Through this initiative, the bank aims to create an inclusive and rewarding banking experience for every valued customer.
Nneka Okekerau, Director at EDC, emphasized the far-reaching impact of the training. She noted that the training addresses a broad spectrum, encompassing creative, digital, and agribusiness entrepreneurs. Okekerau also underscored the necessity of shifting mindsets to achieve tangible and positive results.
As Wema Bank, EDC, and Mastercard synergize to fuel this groundbreaking initiative, Nigeria’s entrepreneurial landscape is poised for transformative change. The empowerment of 10,000 young women across diverse sectors has the potential to ripple through communities, invigorating economic growth, and shaping a future defined by innovation and empowerment.
