More than 150 graduates, undergraduates, and young professionals have benefitted from the JCI Eko’s After School (LAS) programme, which was held at Ilaji Resort in Ibadan, Oyo State. The training, themed “Post-Grad Playbook”, was part of the JCI Nigeria Collegiate Conference designed to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge needed for life after graduation.
Participants at the event included fresh graduates, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, undergraduates, and early-career professionals, all eager to gain practical insights into career growth, personal development, and financial management.
The keynote speaker at the event, Mr Abayomi Gbadamosi, addressed the participants on crucial topics such as career advancement, personal branding, financial literacy, and effective strategies for navigating the challenging phase of post-graduate life. His presentation provided actionable tips on how young Nigerians can build sustainable careers and financial independence in today’s competitive market.
A key highlight of the programme was the panel session titled “Money, Moves, and Mindset”, which delved into career growth, financial empowerment, and personal development. The panel featured distinguished industry professionals, including Mr Sheriff Kolapo Ajibola, Head of Marketing at Smartcash, and Mr Hakeem O. Akiode, Head of Growth at Youverify. Both panellists shared their personal career journeys, challenges, and solutions that helped shape their professional paths. They also provided advice on building financial security and the importance of the right mindset for success in the workplace.
The panel session was moderated by Oluwadamilola E. Fawole, who ensured that participants were actively engaged, sharing personal experiences and receiving tailored advice from the experts.
The training also witnessed the presence of top dignitaries within the Junior Chamber International (JCI) Nigeria network. Among them was the National President of JCI Nigeria, JCIN Ambassador Oluwatoyin Atanda, who commended the JCI Eko team for organising such a timely and impactful programme for young Nigerians. Also in attendance were the Collegiate Chairperson, Amira Abdullahi; National Vice President for Southwest District 1, Mariam Omolara Mohammed; and the Interim Executive Secretary of JCI Nigeria, JCI Senator Sanni Babatunde Ajani.
Other dignitaries present included Feyisayo Awopetu and Nusaybah Abdul Fattah, who also contributed to the event’s success through mentorship and support.
The event was powered by JCI Eko, a Lagos-based chapter of Junior Chamber International known for its youth development initiatives. The organising team was led by Abidemi Idayah Alli-Balogun as Team Lead. The President of JCI Eko, Babajide Faturoti, and Vice President (Projects), Kingsley O. Okeke, also played critical roles in putting the programme together.
JCI Eko’s After School programme is part of the organisation’s broader efforts to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical life skills needed in the professional world. The initiative has continued to provide platforms for young Nigerians to acquire relevant skills that prepare them for the job market and entrepreneurial ventures.
JCI Eko has a reputation for championing youth empowerment through various developmental projects, including environmental sanitation, entrepreneurship promotion, and leadership training. In recent times, the organisation has also marked milestones such as its 25th anniversary and has embarked on activities like beach cleaning exercises in Lagos and celebrating outstanding young entrepreneurs.
Participants at the LAS programme left with not just improved knowledge but also valuable networks and mentorship opportunities that could shape their career and personal growth journeys. The success of the event reinforces the importance of structured post-graduate support systems that prepare young Nigerians for real-world challenges and opportunities.
