The fourth edition of the Yinka Ash Art, Research and Technology Programme (YAART) lit up Bowen University, Iwo, Osun State, last week, drawing over 600 students for a transformative blend of creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial inspiration.
The programme, founded by fashion mogul and philanthropist Yinka Ash, is a flagship initiative designed to empower Africa’s next generation of creators and business leaders. Through YAART, Ash is building bridges for young talents—offering them mentorship, resources, and a stage to shine.
Ash, the visionary behind luxury fashion brands Ashluxe and Ashluxury, delivered a stirring keynote where he pulled from his own journey of building a multimillion-dollar empire from scratch.
“Less than 20% of graduates secure gainful employment within a year of graduation,” Ash revealed. “That’s why you must distinguish yourself early. The world won’t wait for you.”
He shared six actionable principles for students to stand out in a competitive world, urging them to document ideas, start small, and reject the myth of waiting for the “perfect time” or “big capital” to launch a dream.
“If you wait for a big idea or big money before you begin, you’ll achieve very little,” he said. “Start now. Start where you are.”
Turning Passion into Enterprise
The event featured a panel discussion with industry experts and a competitive pitch session that saw budding student entrepreneurs present their business ideas. The top three winners walked away with seed grants of ₦1,000,000, ₦750,000, and ₦500,000, giving them a tangible start to turn their visions into reality.
YAART’s impact continues to grow. Since its launch in 2021, the programme has empowered thousands of students across Babcock University, Caleb University, Pan-Atlantic University, and now Bowen University.
“Creativity alone is not enough. You need structure, mentorship, and access to opportunity,” Ash emphasized. “Real success means building systems that make it easier for those coming behind you. That’s how you build legacy.”
A Vision Beyond Fashion
Under Ash’s leadership, Ashcorp—parent company to Ashluxe and Ashluxury—has become a beacon of African luxury fashion. Now, through YAART, he is pouring into the lives of emerging creatives and entrepreneurs, paying forward the lessons he learned along his journey.
With plans to expand YAART across Africa and into the UK, the programme is set to become a continental movement for youth empowerment, fueling dreams and sparking change far beyond Nigeria’s borders.
