By Chinwe Ezenwa
Special guests of honour, distinguished guests, esteemed representatives from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), faculty members of our prestigious institution, remarkable graduating students, friends, and well-wishers.
It is with immense pride and gratitude that I stand before you today to celebrate the remarkable achievements of the graduating class of Le Look Bags Academy, cohort five. Today, we are celebrating not just graduates, but resilient, visionary leaders ready to make an impact in the world.
This celebration marks the culmination of an intensive three-month journey – one filled with learning, creativity, resilience, and personal transformation.
First and foremost, I extend our deepest appreciation to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) HerAfCFTA Initiative, which is poised to empower women entrepreneurs across Africa by leveraging the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). These include:
– Promoting Gender-Inclusive Trade,
– Capacity Building
– Job Creation and Poverty Reduction
By focusing on these areas, the HerAfCFTA Initiative ensures that the AfCFTA is not just a trade agreement but a powerful tool for inclusive and sustainable development.
I must talk about the UNDP’s unwavering support during the course of the training which has been instrumental in making this training programme a reality. In an uncertain world marked by economic challenges, unemployment among youths, and evolving job markets, the backing of UNDP has not just provided resources but has transformed lives. Their sponsorship has empowered these graduands with skills that transcend traditional education, offering them the tools to build sustainable futures for themselves and their communities. Thank you!
To the graduands, as you have stepped into the next chapter of your lives, I urge you to carry with you the discipline that has been the cornerstone of our success at Le Look. In fact, it is one of our core values which has been instrumental in making this company stand for 40 years. Le Look’s journey is a testament to dedication and tenacity. Today, I stand here, happy to have empowered the next generation of Le Looks – youth who will not only transform their own lives but also uplift their communities.
Graduands, discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishments. It will guide you when motivation wanes and challenges arise. Remember, success in any endeavour is not just about talents or opportunity but about the consistent efforts you put forth every day.
Moreover, the skills you have acquired are not just relevant. They are pivotal in the current economic landscape. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents unprecedented opportunities for young entrepreneurs like you. With its focus on boosting intra-African trade, reducing barriers and fostering economic diversification, AfCFTA aligns perfectly with the spirit of this programme. Your craftsmanship in bag-making is not confined to local markets. It has the potential to thrive across borders, contributing to Africa’s economic growth and integration.
As you venture into the world, I encourage you to embrace continuous learning. The knowledge you have gained is a solid foundation, but the world is dynamic. Stay curious, adaptable, and innovative. Network with fellow people in this field and industry, explore new designs, understand market trends, and always seek to improve your craft.
In closing, I want to remind you that you are not just graduates. You are ambassadors of change. The skills you possess are more than a means to earn a livelihood. They are instruments to inspire, uplift, and create opportunities for others. Be bold, be resilient, and let your work reflect the excellence and dedication that Le Look Bags Academy stands for.
Congratulations once again to the graduating class.
Thank you.
*Being excerpts of the address presented by the Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Le Look Limited, Chief (Mrs.) Chinwe F. O. Ezenwa, at the graduation ceremony of Le Look Bags Academy (LLBA), Abuja …recently.
