On May 18th, 2024, a significant milestone in the journey towards gender equality and economic empowerment was achieved in the Karumajigi community. Priscilla Ekwueme Ejeje Empowerment Initiatives (PEEEI) commenced a 6-month skills acquisition program Fashion Design as part of her objectives of empowering indigenous young girls with valuable skills and opportunities for economic advancement which will make them self-reliant.
The event, hosted at Musminat Fashion House in Karumajigi, Abuja, saw the induction of seven enthusiastic girls into a six-month tailoring training program. Led by the esteemed Hajia Amina Musa, Trainer, and Founder of Musminat Fashion House, the program aims to equip these girls with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue successful careers in tailoring.
Martin-Mary Falana, the CEO of Kids & Teens Resource Centre, and Mrs. Beatrice Oduniyi, Member of the Board of Trustees of PEEEI, were present to oversee the induction process and offer words of encouragement to the aspiring young fashion designers. Addressing the girls, Mrs. Oduniyi emphasized the importance of dedication and commitment to their training, highlighting the transformative power of acquiring new skills. She shared a personal anecdote, recounting her mother’s journey as a self-taught tailor who empowered her children through her business. Mrs. Oduniyi urged the girls to show determination in their learning.
During the induction, each girl expressed her aspirations and eagerness to excel in the field of fashion design. Among the participants are Zainab Bello, Bilikisu Sani, Jamila Sani, Fatima Badamasi, Rakuya Haruna, and Asamu Abubakar, all of whom demonstrated a strong determination to make the most of this opportunity.
Hajia Amina Musa, speaking on this occasion, expressed her gratitude to the convener for empowering the girls. She acknowledged the impact of PEEEI’s initiative on the entire village of Karumajigi, emphasizing the potential for replication and its significance in engaging out-of-school girls. Hajia Amina pledged to ensure the girls receive comprehensive training and discipline.
The tailoring induction program is just the beginning of PEEEI’s efforts to empower women and girls in Karumajigi. As the girls embark on their six-month training journey, PEEEI remains committed to providing ongoing support and mentorship to ensure their success. At the culmination of the program, all outstanding and successful trainees will be awarded sewing machines to further support ther entrepreneurial endeavors.
Speaking about the initiative, Martin-Mary Falana stated, “We believe that investing in the skills and talents of young women is essential for driving sustainable development and fostering gender equality in our community. Through initiatives like this, we aim to create pathways to economic independence and empowerment for women and girls.”
Martin-Mary recalled the International Women’s Day 2024 event organized by Kids & Teens Resource Centre, Priscilla Ekwueme Eleje Empowerment Initiative and His Marvelous Grace Support Foundation, tagged “Egg Race to Wealth”, where he mentioned the girls’ victory and reiterated their commitment to supporting the girls’ journey.
This initiative represents a crucial step forward in the empowerment of women and girls in the Karumajigi community, and PEEEI looks forward to witnessing the positive impact it will have on the lives of these aspiring fashion designers.