In today’s competitive job market, mentorship and skill development are critical elements in the development of young professionals. The Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) is committed to fostering youth development in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region by offering the required support and resources needed for them to succeed.
This commitment was exemplified at this year’s Young Professionals event (YP-Akure) held on July 27, 2024, at the OSPDC Event Hall in Akure, Ondo State. In collaboration with Unboxed Conference Lagos, the event brought together over 200 young professionals aged 30 and under, providing mentorship from 20 industry experts, career guidance, and networking opportunities.
PIND’s Executive Director, Tunji Idowu, who participated as a mentor while setting the tone for the event, emphasized the importance of personal branding, effective communication, networking, and relationship-building. He highlighted these elements as crucial for differentiating oneself in a competitive market and creating career opportunities. All these he underscored during his opening speech to the young professionals titled; Strengthening Your Personal Brand: Getting the Basics Right.
Idowu also discussed PIND’s Youth Employment Pathways (YEP) program, which supports emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in the Niger Delta. PIND has notably impacted the region’s professional landscape through skills development training, soft skills, career development, and job placements.
Since 2018, the YEP program has empowered over 8,000 youth with skills in market-relevant growth sectors, linked at least 4,000 individuals to employment and start-ups, and facilitated internships and apprenticeships for 2,000 young people.
The one-day event also featured a pitching contest from startup businesses where small grants were awarded to three standout entrepreneurs: Aanuoluwapo Adelehin, the grand prize winner, specializes in recycling and upcycling to reduce waste in her community by turning them into finished clothing textiles. She received the cash prize of ₦200,000;
Olalekan Olabintan, who works in footwear and leather, and Jamiu Isiaka, an entrepreneur in the renewable energy sector focused on solar installation, each went home with ₦100,000, respectively.
Wale Adenuga, Chief Responsibility Officer at Unboxed Conferences, commended PIND’s ongoing commitment to sponsoring the annual youth mentorship conferences since 2019. He emphasized that the collaboration with PIND has not only fostered the development of young professionals but also generated numerous success stories from past beneficiaries, demonstrating the effectiveness of the mentorship and opportunities. In acknowledgment of this valuable partnership, Wale Adenuga presented PIND with a partnership award.
PIND’s YEP Manager, Patrick Ekpe, also served as a mentor during the breakfast session. He underscored the importance of this mentorship, particularly since the YEP program launched in Ondo State earlier in the year. With over 355 youths nearing the completion of their vocational training, this guidance is pivotal for facilitating their successful entry into the job market and entrepreneurial ventures.
Through its involvement in YP-Akure, PIND Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to empowering the youth of the Niger Delta. By providing mentorship, career development opportunities, and engaging activities, PIND continues to shape the future of young professionals and drive positive change in the region.
