The Rotary Club of Kaduna has taken a significant step toward securing the future of young graduates by hosting a specialized empowerment program for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members serving in the state. The initiative, which combined a high-stakes business pitching contest with vocational training and mentorship, was designed to equip these young Nigerians with the tools they need to succeed in the business world after their service year.
A total of 150 corps members, drawn from various Community Development Service groups across the state, gathered to showcase their entrepreneurial potential. The highlight of the event was a competitive pitching session where three standout participants walked away with seed capital to kickstart their dreams. The first-place winner was awarded N150,000, while the second and third runners-up received N100,000 and N80,000 respectively.
During the event, Ahmad Tijani, the President of the Rotary Club of Kaduna, explained that the club chose to focus on corps members because of their unique position as community influencers. He noted that since these young graduates are often posted to the most remote areas of the country, empowering them creates a ripple effect. By mentoring them in business and life skills, the club expects them to take that knowledge back to their host communities and multiply the impact.
The program was timed to coincide with Rotary’s vocational service month, a period dedicated to promoting high ethical standards and empowering individuals through their various professions. Lukman Temidayo Babatunde, the President of the Rotary Club of Kaduna Metropolitan and the state coordinator for the Rotary Action Group for Peace, emphasized that the collaboration was a way to celebrate and support the vocational aspirations of the youth.
By bridging the gap between national service and professional life, the organizers hope to reduce the anxiety many graduates feel about the future. The combination of financial support and expert mentorship provides a solid foundation for these budding entrepreneurs to turn their innovative ideas into sustainable businesses.
