The International Women’s Society (IWS), Nigeria, hosted a Widows’ Feast and Empowerment Programme on Tuesday, June 12, at the IWS Skills Acquisition Centre in Lagos. The event demonstrated IWS’s dedication to uplifting needy women by providing them with essential job and income-generating opportunities.
The programme saw a remarkable turnout of dignitaries, stakeholders, civil society members, and government representatives, underscoring the importance and impact of IWS’s initiatives. Attendees witnessed the distribution of items such as coolers, grinding machines, sewing machines, freezers, POS machines, popcorn machines, hairdryers, cake mixers, and cash gifts to the widows.
Among the guests was the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Mrs. Toke-Benson Awoyinka, Mr. Ubon Udoh, MD/CEO of the Abdul Samad Rabiu Foundation, represented ASR Africa, one of the event’s sponsors, who donated ten million naira to IWS and provided one hundred thousand naira each to five widows, along with food relief materials such as rice, staples, and spaghetti.
During the presentation ceremony, Mrs. Banke Adeola, Chairperson of the Widows Trust Fund of the International Women’s Society, expressed gratitude to the sponsors and reaffirmed the organisation’s unwavering commitment to supporting women.
“Our mission at the International Women’s Society is to provide community support and the resources, training, and opportunities that can transform lives, especially for women in need. We believe that empowerment is multifaceted. It begins with economic independence but also encompasses emotional support, educational opportunities, and the fostering of a community where everyone feels valued and heard.
“Today’s programme reflects our commitment to these ideals. As we empower about 156 widows, our feast symbolises our shared humanity and the joy of coming together.”
The event ended in a thanksgiving session and a joyous feast, where the widows celebrated together. They enjoyed the generous food materials and essential items provided by sponsors and partners, including Abdul Samad Rabiu Foundation, ASR Africa, Firstbank, CWAY, Checkers Custard, BUA Foods, BUA Group, and Sterling Bank. The atmosphere was filled with gratitude and camaraderie, highlighting the community’s support and the impactful contributions of these organisations.
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