A £100,000 initiative to support Nigerian women entrepreneurs is launched by the foundation.
The Empowering Mary Ojulari FoundationA recently established nonprofit organization in Lagos, the Mary Ojulari Foundation aims to empower young Nigerian women by offering them financial assistance, coaching, and training to help them develop and expand their enterprises.
The Vanguard Fellowship Program
Early in 2025, the Vanguard Fellowship Program, the foundation’s flagship program, will get underway. Important points to note are:
- Seed Funding: £5,000 grants for each of 20 selected fellows, totaling £100,000.
- Selection Process: 40 candidates will be shortlisted, with 20 fellows chosen for the program.
- Ignite Bootcamp: A two-week intensive entrepreneurial training session to equip participants with essential skills.
- Additional Support: Access to workspaces and expert mentorship.
The program targets ventures that address local challenges through innovative and sustainable solutions.
Broader Initiatives
In addition to the fellowship, the foundation has launched:
- Aspire Scholarship Programme: Focused on providing educational and vocational support to orphaned youth.
- Advocacy Efforts: Promoting equality and human capital development across Nigeria.
Founder’s Vision
Mary Ojulari, a finance professional with 25 years of experience, including 12 years abroad, emphasized the foundation’s mission:
“Our mission is to create opportunities for individuals and communities to thrive through innovation, collaboration, and empowerment.”
Call for Partnerships
The foundation is seeking collaborations with corporations, individuals, and policymakers to expand its impact. Interested parties can learn more at www.maryojularifoundation.org.
A Timely Launch
The foundation’s efforts align with Nigeria’s growing emphasis on entrepreneurship and women’s economic empowerment as critical drivers of economic growth. By combining financial support with mentorship and training, the Mary Ojulari Foundation aims to create lasting positive change in communities across the country.
