Pristinegist reports that Oseni Islamiat Arinola, the 35th Vice-President of the students’ union at the University of Ilorin, spearheaded a groundbreaking empowerment and entrepreneurship summit.
This program was held at the Auditorium in the University of Ilorin, Ilorin on the 12th of August 2023. However, the empowerment and entrepreneurship summit, orchestrated by Oseni Islamiat Arinola, took center stage as a beacon of hope for aspiring young entrepreneurs.
In an exclusive interview with Pristinegist Arinola explained that the empowerment aimed at equipping young minds with the necessary skills and tools has left an indelible mark on the community.
She said, “The main objective of the initiative was to foster a fervent interest in entrepreneurship while providing participants with essential equipment for success in various industries.”
She further explained that the program’s roots trace back to its inception by OSENI’s predecessor, Comrade Adeyi Kaosara, marking the event as a cornerstone of the university’s yearly calendar.
Identifying the multifaceted needs and challenges faced by the youth, Oseni narrated that she embarked on a mission to address concerns ranging from education and entrepreneurship to security.
While talking she also revealed that to engage and motivate participants, OSENI and her team organized a comprehensive skills acquisition phase, the program’s cornerstone. This phase served as a crucial building block, emphasizing the value of vocational skills alongside academic pursuits.
In addition, an impactful entrepreneurship and mentorship talk was held, further stoking the flames of ambition among attendees.
Diversity and inclusivity were paramount in the program’s design. A meticulous screening process, guided by experts, ensured that the most deserving participants were selected from a pool of aspiring young minds.
This approach guaranteed a wide range of perspectives, creating an environment rich in diversity.
The results of OSENI’s youth empowerment program speak volumes. With a total investment of 4.8 million Naira, the impact resonated across the community.
The list of equipment distributed, including 12 sewing machines, 12 laptops, 4 hairdryers, 2 ovens, 5 clippers, and 4 filing machines, signifies a tangible commitment to providing the tools necessary for success.
The road to success, however, was not without obstacles. OSENI and her team encountered financial challenges exacerbated by economic conditions.
Nevertheless, through perseverance and determination, they secured sponsorships from notable entities such as Dr. Alex BANKOLE, NITDA, Alhaja Yusuf Bola Kamwire, EVC, and Omegabiz, which played a pivotal role in overcoming hurdles.
Reflecting on the experience, OSENI learned the importance of inclusivity and shared responsibility.
She emphasized the need to ensure all stakeholders are actively engaged, reducing stress on organizers and contributing to a more cohesive program.
Looking forward, OSENI is resolute in her commitment to further enhance and expand the impact of her youth empowerment initiatives.
Plans are already in motion for the next event, promising even more opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs.
For those aspiring to follow in Oseni Islamiat Arinola’s footsteps, educationally, politically, and socially, her advice is clear: forge your path and focus on making consistent progress.
Arinola also extends heartfelt appreciation to her team and everyone who contributed to the success of the program.
In a world where youth empowerment holds the key to a brighter future, Oseni Islamiat Arinola’s dedication and vision stand as a shining example of how one individual’s initiative can spark positive change and create a lasting impact.
