M&G Etomi Foundation recently celebrated the successful conclusion of its 6th edition of Skills Acquisition and Empowerment Training with a heartwarming graduation ceremony on March 13th, 2024. The event took place at Serenity Legal Union & Partners, located at Plot 7, Jessy & Jenny Street, near Domino’s Pizza Junction, along Peter Odili Road in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The Foundation’s vision, driven by the passion of Michael and George Etomi through their philanthropic endeavours, aims to provide opportunities and resources to empower the Niger Delta community. Their goal is to break the cycle of poverty, alleviate the economic hardships in the Niger Delta, and mitigate the rising rates of youth unemployment.
During the training program, beneficiaries acquired valuable skills in various fields, including Fashion and Design, Professional Photography, Graphic Design, Health and Safety Management, and Hotel and Hospitality Management (Catering). These training sessions were conducted by reputable centres in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
The highlight of the graduation ceremony included the distribution of startup kits and certificates to the participants. The startup kits consisted of essential tools such as sewing machines, gas cookers with ovens, laptop computers, and cameras.
Barrister George Etomi, the co-founder, shared the inspirational stories behind the Foundation’s inception in his speech. He encouraged the graduates to become exemplary ambassadors of the foundation by leveraging their newfound skills to create value in their communities and society at large. He also highlighted the foundation’s track record, having trained over four hundred and fifteen beneficiaries across the Niger Delta Region with a mentorship program boasting a success rate of ninety-five percent (95%).
Dr. Lawrence Ibiayemie Esq., the Secretary of the Wakirike National Congress, expressed his delight at the impact of the training and urged the graduates to utilize their skills effectively in their communities.
Honourable Akuro Tobin, the Executive Chairman of Okrika Local Government Council, represented by Mr Eric Opuene Alalibo, emphasized the importance of excelling and making a positive impact for societal betterment. He advised the graduates to leverage social media platforms to showcase their skills and avoid distractions.
HRH. Sir. Barrister David Serena Dokubo-Spiff, the former SSG to the Bayelsa State Government and chairman of the occasion, commended the M&G Etomi Foundation for its significant contributions to youth empowerment. He encouraged the graduates to seize the golden opportunities presented to them, become exemplary ambassadors, and contribute to the betterment of their communities.
Overall, the graduation ceremony marked a significant milestone in the journey of empowerment and ambition pursued by the M&G Etomi Foundation, signalling a brighter future for the youth in the Niger Delta.
