On March 11th, 2024, the Africa Projects Development Centre in Abuja, Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory, hosted the opening ceremony for the Fashionistas Enterprise Cohort 5 training program at the prestigious Gladys Hall. Esteemed guests, distinguished speakers, and the dedicated team at The Centre passionate about advancing women's empowerment across Africa graced the event.

Recognizing the significant gender disparity in unemployment that disproportionately impacts Nigerian women, APDC Group established the Fashionistas Enterprise program as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, which is generously funded through contributions from individuals and organizations. The program boasts a two-fold mission: to bridge the unemployment gap and promote gender equality by equipping aspiring women fashionpreneurs with essential business skills like digital marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Chiji Ojukwu, the Managing Director of APDC Group, in his opening address, declared, "This program is designed for trailblazing women like you to acquire world-class skills in fashion design, makeup artistry, and hairdressing. It will empower you to become sustainable entrepreneurs and conquer the global fashion industry."

The CEO of Legend Fashion House, Mr. Linus Akpan, in a motivational message to the new trainees, encouraged, "Your determination and focus will be the keys that unlock your success in this program. Give it your all, work hard, and in just a few short weeks, you'll reap the rewards of your unwavering commitment."

Mr. Ademu Eteh Monday, the Agripreneurs/Creative Arts Incubation & Training Lead, spoke about the transformative potential of the training curriculum for the fashion industry. Inspiring testimonials from previous internship trainees served as a source of motivation for the new cohort. The Enterprise trainers, in turn, expressed their dedication to nurturing the next generation of fashion experts.

The entire team at The Centre eagerly awaits the creative contributions the new Cohort will bring to the fashion world, further solidifying the program's commitment to gender inclusivity and women's empowerment.

hashtag#APDC hashtag#Fashionistas hashtag#GenderInclusivity hashtag#WomenEmpowerment.