The United States Consulate in Nigeria has joined forces with the Ascend Studio Foundation to provide financial empowerment to female migrants who have returned to Nigeria after participating in the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs program.

During the graduation ceremony held in Lekki, Lagos, the Head of Ascend Studio Foundation, Dr. Inya Lawal, highlighted the importance of the program, emphasizing that many returnees face financial challenges upon their return.

The participants received intensive business management training and mentorship from established women entrepreneurs during the program, with the aim of enhancing their entrepreneurial skills and economic sustainability.

Dr. Lawal stressed that returnees require more than just financial assistance; they also need business training, therapy, and networking opportunities to establish and sustain their businesses successfully in society.

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She emphasized that the program plays a crucial role in reintegrating returnees into society, providing them with essential skills and support.

The program, which specifically targets returned migrants, received a high number of applicants, with 30 participants selected from a pool of 150 applicants.

These participants underwent a comprehensive competition, both virtually and in-person, focusing on pitching their business ideas and improving their access to various funding opportunities, including loans.

To qualify for the program, applicants had to meet certain criteria, including being Nigerian, a female returnee between the ages of 18 and 30, and possessing basic computer skills.

The US Consulate’s Public Affairs Officer, Julie Mckay, expressed the program’s broader objective of empowering women entrepreneurs globally.

She highlighted the positive impact of empowering women economically on families, communities, and the country’s economic growth.

The Academy for Women Entrepreneurs program aims to support women in starting and growing their businesses, fostering economic growth and development.