Foundation launches leadership series to empower young African entrepreneurs

The HOW Foundation has initiated the Wigwe University Fearless Leadership Series, a new program designed to cultivate entrepreneurial talent among young Africans. This flagship initiative seeks to equip participants with the essential mindset, mentorship, and practical skills required to establish and grow sustainable businesses.

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You may not have the full picture but you must have the courage to take a step.

The series is a key component of the Foundation's strategy to advance the vision of the university's founder, the late Dr. Herbert Wigwe. His ambition was to foster fearless leaders capable of driving significant economic transformation across the African continent. The program aims to provide a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to learn from established business leaders and gain practical insights into leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

The inaugural event, held at Wigwe University in Rivers State, featured entrepreneur and author Tara Fela-Durotoye as the first partner. Over 320 students attended, representing Wigwe University, the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State University, and Abia State University, along with youth leaders from the local Isiokpo community. This gathering marked the beginning of Fela-Durotoye's nationwide campus tour to promote her book, "Building Beyond You: The House of Tara Story."

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You don’t have to start big. You can start small and build a legacy.

During a fireside chat moderated by the university's Public Relations Officer, Dr. Emmanuel Attat, Fela-Durotoye shared key lessons from her journey in building House of Tara International into a leading beauty and lifestyle brand. She encouraged young entrepreneurs to embrace uncertainty and remain steadfast in their ambitions, advising, "You may not have the full picture but you must have the courage to take a step." Student participants Adika Tamarabrakemi and Akpana Lolia echoed sentiments about starting small and persevering, emphasizing that success requires continuous effort and self-belief.

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No business blows overnight. You have to keep trying and believe in yourself and what you do.