Transcorp Hilton Abuja, in partnership with ACE Charity, has graduated another set of young women under its Business Empowerment Program for Women (BEPW) initiative, reaffirming its commitment to promoting entrepreneurship, financial independence and sustainable livelihoods.
The graduation ceremony marked the completion of the programme’s 16th cycle, with four beneficiaries successfully completing six months of intensive training in fashion design, garment making and business management.
The Hotel Manager, Mohamed Said Khalil, commended the hotel’s commitment to the initiative, describing it as remarkable and worthy of recognition, and encouraged the graduates to make the most of the opportunity given to them.
The Managing Director of Transcorp Hilton Abuja, Uzo Oshogwe, congratulated the graduates for their resilience, stressing that the programme was about much more than learning tailoring.
“Today is not just about receiving certificates. It is about celebrating commitment, resilience and leadership. You came here to learn tailoring, but you are leaving with skills that will help you run successful businesses,” she said, urging them to uphold excellence in their craft, and mentor others as they grow.
The Grants and Partnership Officer of ACE Charity, Rahina Opotu, said the Programme, established in 2017, was designed to equip young people with limited opportunities with sewing and business management skills to become self-reliant.
She disclosed that beneficiaries also received free transportation, meals, and their sewing machines upon graduation, and that the programme has now empowered 60 women across 16 cycles.
Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, team leader, Divine Favour, thanked the organisers for investing in their future, saying the opportunity had changed their lives.
Organisers noted that beyond learning fashion design, the graduates produced clothing and other items donated to vulnerable communities, demonstrating the programme’s emphasis on social impact and giving back.
