Today, the Ugwumba Leadership Centre proudly hosted the U-Fund for Women Program; a special gathering designed with everyday market women, petty traders, and roadside sellers in mind.
It was a program for the woman who woke up before dawn to set up her stall, the one who hawked goods under the hot sun, and the one who ran her small business with little more than determination and faith. They were recognized as the heartbeat of their communities, and the day was dedicated to celebrating and supporting them.
The event brought together women from various trades and neighbourhoods for a day of practical conversations, shared experiences, and real support. Participants had the opportunity to learn how to access funding and small grants to grow their businesses, received simple tips on managing money and increasing sales, and connected with other women traders who understood the daily hustle.
There were also talks from speakers who had been in similar shoes — women who started small and found their way forward, as well as financial experts who broke things down in a clear, straightforward way. There was no big grammar or overly complex English, just honest, useful information and grants that they could take back to their businesses.
Speaking at the event, the President of the Ugwumba Leadership Centre, Ugwumba Uche Nwosu, shared warm words with every woman in attendance. “Your small business is not a small thing,” he said. “Every kobo you earn, every day you show up, every customer you serve — that is courage. We were here because we believed in you, and we wanted to make sure you never had to struggle alone. This program was our way of standing beside you.” He also urged them to be good ambassadors of the Ugwumba Women.
The Director of Programs, Chinyere Bibi Kala-Kala, also spoke from the heart, reminding the women that their dreams were valid no matter where they were starting from. “Do not let anyone make you feel like your business is too small to matter,” she urged. “A woman selling pepper by the roadside today could own a shop tomorrow and a warehouse the day after. All she needed was the right support, and that was exactly what we were there to give.”
The Ugwumba Leadership Centre reaffirmed its belief that every woman, no matter how small her trade, deserved access to resources, community, and encouragement.
The Women empowered with grants afterwards.