Group seeks business opportunities for marginalised women, girls
By Tosin Kolade
The StarCrest for Women in Africa Foundation, an NGO, has called on all stakeholders to create mentorship programmes and business opportunities to empower marginalised women and girls in the country.
Its Executive Director, Mrs Esther Omenka, made this call at the EmpowerHer Business Summit with the theme “Woman, You Can’’ on Thursday in Abuja.
Omenka highlighted the foundation’s commitment to women’s empowerment, child welfare, and advocacy for gender equality.
She said that StarCrest was born not out of convenience, but from a burning desire to be architects of change in a world where women’s voices resonated with strength.
According to her, the foundation’s impactful interventions, including vocational skill acquisition programmes and outreach initiatives in IDP camps, are underscored as reflections of their dedication to holistic community well-being.
She said the back-to-school programmes, specifically targeting underprivileged children, were described as promises fulfilled, safeguarding the future of every child, especially the girl child.
“In the corridors of the StarCrest foundation, we don’t just dream; we build; we build bridges of opportunity, fortresses of protection, and ladders of education for those who need it the most.
“Today, as we open the doors to this business summit, we open doors to possibilities, to collaborations, and to a future where the resilient African woman, the empowered girl child, and the dynamic youth stand at the forefront of progress,’’ she said.
Omenka expressed gratitude to all those who had been part of the foundation’s remarkable journey, calling for partnership in the ongoing mission of empowerment.
Earlier, the Programme Coordinator, Sarah Toluwase, highlighted the organisation’s dedication to fostering an environment where African women could thrive.
Toluwase acknowledged Africa’s abundance of potential, innovation, and talent, while recognising the barriers that hindered the full realisation of women’s potential in the business world.
She said the summit served as a crucial platform to address the challenges, amplify women’s voices, and create actionable strategies promoting inclusivity, diversity, and equality.
According to her, throughout the event, attendees will engage with inspiring keynote speakers, thought leaders, and visionaries who have shattered glass ceilings in their respective fields.
Mr Zubairu Abdullahi, Director, Special Duties, Federal Ministry of Education, said women empowerment benefited society by promoting equality, diversity, and inclusivity.
He said when women had equal opportunities in education and employment, it led to a more balanced and dynamic society.
Abdullahi said empowering women aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) like gender equality, quality education, and reduced poverty, fostering a more sustainable and equitable world.
He added that it helped in unleashing the full potential of half the population, contributing to social, economic, and environmental progress.
Abdullahi, however, pledged his ministry’s commitment to continue to support organisations that promoted the rights and interests of women and girls. (NAN) www.nannews.ng
Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo
Published By
- Agriculture and Environment Desk Editor, Website Content Manager.
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