Abuja, Nigeria - September 17th, 2024.

Earlier today, the  (APDC) launched Cohort VI of the Fashionistas Enterprise with an opening ceremony. Esteemed guests, distinguished speakers, and the dedicated team at The Centre, passionate about advancing women's empowerment across Africa, graced the event, which included presentations, training overviews, and inspiring success stories.

The latest interns will embark on an intensive 14-week training program tailored to equip them with excellent creative art and business skills, such as digital skills, finance, marketing and entrepreneurship, empowering them to tackle unemployment and build sustainable livelihoods.

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

He emphasized the importance of diligence in participating in the program, noting that lacklustre performance would not be tolerated, while exceptional effort would be duly recognized.

The CEO of Legend Fashion House, Mr. Linus Akpan, in a motivational message to the new trainees, encouraged, "Your determination and commitment 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 event concluded with closing remarks from Ms. Ifeoma Umeania, APDC's Head of Administration. Ms. Umeania expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort that made the ceremony successful. 

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.