The U.S. Consulate General joined forces with the Ascend Studios Foundation on September 25 to commemorate the triumphant conclusion of the returned migrant training programme within the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) in Lagos.

In a bid to facilitate the seamless reintegration of returning migrants, a group of 20 female returnees was carefully chosen to partake in the initiative.

An intensive business management programme encompassing various aspects such as financial management, marketing strategies, operational processes, human resource management, and more was provided for the participants as they benefited from invaluable mentorship and insights provided by experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts, including accomplished alumni of the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE).

During the event, Julie McKay, the public affairs officer at the U.S. Consulate, shared her thoughts on the significance of advancing an inclusive atmosphere that diminishes obstacles and empowers women for their active engagement in the economy.

Ms McKay emphasised that the programme had been meticulously crafted to nurture the resilience, creativity, and determination of returning women, enabling them to establish thriving and enduring businesses.

Ms Mckay stated, “Women’s empowerment and economic integration are key to Nigeria’s long-term economic development. When women are economically empowered, they re-invest in their families and communities, producing a multiplier effect that spurs economic growth and contributes to global peace and stability.”

Returning migrants presented their business concepts at the concluding event, taking inspiration from the American television series “Shark Tank” and pitching them to a panel of judges comprised of Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) graduates for potential investment.

The winner of the business pitch competition, Oluwakemi Oladapo, from Oyo State, was granted $2,000 in seed funding for her exceptional performance by the U.S. Consulate General to further develop her leather bag manufacturing venture.

Chylian Azuh, an aspiring entrepreneur from Delta State, secured the second position and received $1,500 in seed funding, while Osunalele Osanyanmo, a promising businesswoman from Edo State, claimed the third spot and was awarded $700 in seed funding.

Inya Lawal, the chief executive officer of Ascend Studios Foundation, commended the programme’s participants for their unwavering commitment and dedication.

She stated,”the AWE returned migrant cohort offered a distinctive platform for participants to engage with mentors and establish invaluable connections to nurture their entrepreneurial endeavours. We eagerly anticipate witnessing their ongoing development and prosperity.”