By Ologeh Joseph Chibu
The Women Empowerment and Legal Aid (WELA) on Tuesday marked its 9th Annual Graduation Ceremony for the 2024 Vocational Training Program.
The programme was marked on the International Human Rights Day on December 10.
The group had organised a six-month vocational training which offered a diverse range of skills, including hairdressing, fashion design, shoemaking, cosmetology, ICT, and more.
While WELA primarily focuses on supporting women, its inclusivity was evident in the graduating class, which featured one male participant who successfully completed the program alongside predominantly female peers.
After the training phase, participants were placed in internships to gain practical experience.
Once they demonstrated readiness, WELA provided them with essential free startup materials.
The organization conducts regular follow-ups to ensure the graduates’ businesses thrive.
The event began on a warm note with an opening prayer, followed by the recital of the first and second stanzas of the national anthem. Selected dignitaries were then invited to share their perspectives on WELA, highlighting its impact and contributions.
The responses were heartfelt, with many expressing profound gratitude for the unwavering support of wife of human rights activist, Mrs. Funmi Falana, (SAN).
The dignitaries lauded her commitment to empowering women and youths, emphasizing her dedication to funding WELA’s initiatives independently without reliance on government resources.
The graduation ceremony was vibrant and engaging, featuring notable dignitaries, cultural performances, and displays of graduates’ work. Among the prominent attendees were Human Rights Activist Mr. Femi Falana, SAN, WELA President Mrs. Funmi Falana, prominent Nigerian Musician Falz, Nollywood actress Funke Akindele, former Lagos State Deputy Governor Mrs. Oluranti Adebule, and President of the Down Syndrome Foundation Nigeria, Mrs. Rose Mordi.
Mrs. Mordi delivered the keynote speech commemorating International Human Rights Day, emphasizing the importance of human rights advocacy. The event concluded with an exhibition where attendees supported the graduates by purchasing their high-quality, handmade products—testament to the skills and precision instilled during the program.
This year’s graduation ceremony reaffirmed WELA’s mission of empowerment and highlighted its significant role in nurturing skilled, independent individuals poised for success.
