In a powerful demonstration of inclusion and economic empowerment, seventy women with disabilities in Lagos have been equipped with resources and training worth ₦4.7 million. This groundbreaking initiative is part of the Strengthening Access to Business Education and Inclusion (SABI) Woman Project, a collaborative effort by Sightsavers, Unilever Nigeria Plc, and the Growing Businesses Foundation (GBF).
The project aims to break barriers for women with disabilities by fostering entrepreneurship and financial inclusion. By addressing the unique challenges faced by this marginalized group, the initiative is paving the way for sustainable economic growth and self-reliance.
Transforming Lives Through Skill Building
At the heart of the SABI Woman Project is a commitment to equipping women with the tools they need to thrive as entrepreneurs. Over 100 women with disabilities were initially trained in Lagos, with 70 participants selected to receive additional resources based on their readiness to utilize business skills.
Each beneficiary received a “business basket” valued at ₦60,000, tailored to help them launch or grow their businesses. This financial and material support serves as a catalyst for empowerment, enabling the women to take control of their economic futures.
Sightsavers Programme Officer, Ms. Anita Kevin, highlighted the impact of the initiative:
“Out of 100 women trained in Lagos, we identified 70 ready to access business skills. Each of them is receiving a ‘business basket’ valued at ₦60,000 to help launch or grow their businesses.”
Empowerment Through Training
The initiative’s cornerstone was a four-day intensive training session conducted by the Industrial Training Fund (ITF). Participants gained critical business skills, including customer service excellence, digital marketing strategies, and effective record-keeping practices.
This comprehensive training has not only equipped the women with practical knowledge but has also instilled in them the confidence to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.
Ongoing Support for Lasting Impact
Recognizing that empowerment does not end with training, the Growing Businesses Foundation (GBF) has introduced a mentorship program to ensure the women’s continued progress. Retail Sales Representatives (RSPs) have been assigned to provide ongoing support to the beneficiaries.
These RSPs play a vital role in monitoring sales performance, assisting with inventory management, and guiding beneficiaries in maintaining accurate business records. This hands-on approach ensures that the women have the support they need to build sustainable businesses.
Voices of Gratitude and Transformation
For the beneficiaries, the initiative represents a life-changing opportunity. Ms. Christiana Olowolagba, one of the empowered women, expressed her gratitude:
“This opportunity is a blessing. For Persons with Disabilities, access to discounted products and doorstep delivery from RSPs makes the process seamless. I’m grateful to the organizers for their support.”
Her story is a testament to the transformative power of targeted interventions, which go beyond financial support to restore dignity and confidence among women with disabilities.
Driving Inclusion and Economic Growth
The SABI Woman Project is not just about empowering individuals; it is a model for driving inclusive economic growth. By addressing systemic barriers and providing targeted support, the initiative is fostering a culture of inclusion that benefits society as a whole.
Sightsavers Programme Officer, Ms. Anita Kevin, underscored the broader impact of the program:
“This project demonstrates the power of inclusion in driving sustainable economic growth. It is about more than just financial empowerment—it is about creating a society where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.”
A Call to Action for Broader Inclusion
As the SABI Woman Project continues to impact lives, it serves as a call to action for other stakeholders to join the movement for inclusion. With the collaboration of public and private sectors, initiatives like this can be scaled to reach even more individuals, ensuring that no one is left behind.
The success of the SABI Woman Project underscores the importance of partnerships in addressing societal challenges. Through the combined efforts of Sightsavers, Unilever Nigeria Plc, and the Growing Businesses Foundation, a new chapter of empowerment is being written for women with disabilities in Lagos.
A Brighter Future
As these women embark on their entrepreneurial journeys, they carry with them not just business tools, but also hope for a brighter future. The SABI Woman Project is a testament to what can be achieved when inclusion is prioritized, proving that empowering one woman can transform a community.
This initiative is not just a story of empowerment—it is a blueprint for a more inclusive and equitable society.
