Overview
Youth unemployment remains one of Nigeria's most pressing challenges, with young women often facing the steepest barriers to economic independence. The International Development Initiative in Africa (IDIA), in partnership with Pink Food Bank, sought to address this gap by sponsoring a Youth Empowerment Program designed to equip young women with practical, income-generating skills. Held over three days, from 27th to 29th November 2024, the program combined technical training in coding, design, and skincare product making with startup funding, giving beneficiaries both the knowledge and the capital to begin earning immediately.
Objectives
- To equip young women with modern, market-relevant technical skills in coding, design, and skincare product making.
- To provide a pathway to sustainable income generation for young women.
- To bridge the gap between skills acquisition and business implementation through direct startup funding.
- To empower young women to become self-reliant and economically independent.
Outcome
- 20 young women completed hands-on technical training in coding, design, and skincare product making.
- Beneficiaries left the program equipped with modern skills capable of generating consistent income.
- Startup funding enabled participants to move directly from training into business, without the usual delay in raising capital.
- The program demonstrated how combining skills training with financial support can accelerate real economic outcomes for young women.
Conclusion
The Youth Empowerment Program with The IDIA Project reflects Pink Food Bank's commitment to going beyond food relief, addressing the root causes of vulnerability through skills development and economic empowerment. Through this partnership, 20 young women gained not just training, but the practical tools and funding needed to build sustainable livelihoods.
Beyond the three days of training, the program's true impact lies in what comes after: businesses launched, incomes earned, and independence built. This initiative didn't just teach skills; it opened doors to self-sufficiency for young women ready to walk through them.
Watch highlight here:
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Beneficial Remark from Blessing Okonkwo
"Before this program, I had no idea how to start a business, I just knew I wanted to do something with my life. The training taught me skills I never thought I could learn, and the funding meant I didn't have to wait years to save up. I started my skincare business immediately after the program ended. I'm proud to say I now earn my own money and I'm not depending on anyone."
