In a bold move to foster grassroots development and economic empowerment, the Mary Ojulari Foundation has awarded a total of $105,000 in investment grants to 21 young entrepreneurs across Nigeria. This significant announcement was made during the inaugural Vanguard Fellowship Awards & Networking Cocktail Party, held at the Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History in Onikan, Lagos Island on Tuesday, April 15, 2025.
A Strategic Investment in Innovation and Growth
The 21 recipients, comprising 18 women and 3 men, were selected from a competitive pool of 50 participants who completed the Foundation’s intensive two-week Ignite Bootcamp. The bootcamp followed a rigorous selection process that attracted over 500 applications, making the final cut a highly coveted achievement.
Each of the 21 entrepreneurs was awarded $5,000 in grants to support their businesses, which span a wide array of sectors including agriculture, technology, food, fashion, health, and social enterprise. Notable beneficiaries include:
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Jidechukwu Nwabueze of Jelapetra Farms Limited
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Apelehin Oluwatoyin of Inspire Agro Centre
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Olaleye Rofiat Olayinka of Eco Heroes
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Hyacinth Orji of QuickWaka
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Adetutu Olatunji of Two Event and Catering Services
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Temitayo Oluyege of May Coutures
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Oyebukola Oyeyemi of Oyecube Farms
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Nkechi Gift Uzordima of Mush & Green
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Olatunji Oluwafemi of Efem Studios
These grants are part of the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to empowering young innovators and providing them with the resources they need to scale their ventures and create sustainable impact.
The Ignite Bootcamp: Preparing Entrepreneurs for Success
The Ignite Bootcamp was an intensive 10-day program that equipped participants with vital skills for success in the competitive business world. The training covered key areas such as entrepreneurial mindset, compliance, branding, sales, leadership, risk management, and pitch readiness. The program was further enriched by mentorship from industry professionals, in collaboration with organizations like SMEDAN.
Mary Ojulari’s Vision for Grassroots Development
Mary Ojulari, the founder of the Foundation, emphasized that this initiative is an essential part of her mission to drive grassroots development through innovation, mentorship, and sustainable investments. In her speech, she shared how she had previously sponsored 25 children from primary school through to university. “We mentor young people and women, provide business advice, and fund them to scale their businesses. Today, we are giving 21 entrepreneurs $5,000 to pursue their ventures,” Ojulari stated.
She also expressed her gratitude to the anonymous corporate sponsors and individual donors who made the initiative possible. Ojulari called on other stakeholders to join the effort and help scale the impact of this transformational program.
Words of Wisdom from Dr. Cosmas Maduka
The event’s keynote address was delivered by Dr. Cosmas Maduka, the President & CEO of Coscharis Group. Maduka provided invaluable advice to the beneficiaries, encouraging them to remain focused on their goals despite challenges. He urged the entrepreneurs to take bold action beyond words, stating, “There are many of you who were first in class but aren’t first in real life. Life requires a mindset shift and the courage to act.”
Maduka acknowledged the difficulties many face in Nigeria but urged the youth to stay hopeful, emphasizing that the country holds abundant untapped opportunities.
The Mary Ojulari Foundation is playing a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of business leaders in Nigeria. This investment will not only provide much-needed financial support to young entrepreneurs but also empower them with the skills and networks required to succeed in their respective industries. The Foundation’s commitment to creating lasting change is evident, and its efforts continue to inspire and uplift the entrepreneurial spirit across Nigeria.
