WEMA Bank has announced plans to empower 10,000 young women by providing them with support and training in various businesses and vocations.
This initiative is a collaboration between WEMA Bank, the Entrepreneurial Development Centre of Pan-Atlantic University, and Mastercard.
During a press briefing in Lagos, Tunde Mabawonku, the Executive Director for Retail and Digital Business at Wema Bank, emphasized that this partnership aims not only to promote inclusivity and align with Sustainable Development Goals, but also to create genuine job opportunities for young people.
The goal is to bring about positive transformations for individuals, businesses, and families nationwide.
Ayodele Olojede, the Divisional Head of Retail and Small and Medium Enterprise at Wema Bank, highlighted that this collaboration will empower female customers by enhancing their skills and unlocking their potential.
Through the alliance, 10,000 female business owners who are valued customers of Wema Bank will receive comprehensive training from experienced professionals at Pan-Atlantic University’s Entrepreneurial Development Centre.
Additionally, 50 individuals will have the chance to become certified Business Development Support Providers through SMEDAN.
Furthermore, select entrepreneurs will receive grants and seed funding of up to N500,000 each to help turn their learning into tangible business success.
Nneka Okekerau, Director at EDC, emphasized that the training encompasses entrepreneurs in various sectors, including creative, digital, and agribusiness.
She emphasized the need to shift mindsets in order to achieve positive outcomes.
As pioneers of this transformative capacity-building initiative, the partners expressed their enthusiasm for the positive changes that will emerge from the program and extended their gratitude to all participants.
