Breaking Barriers: Huked Sponsors WFE Grant Awards to Empower Market Women in Ikorodu
Breaking Barriers: Huked Sponsors WFE Grant Awards to Empower Market Women in Ikorodu
The Ikorodu market was filled with purpose on Saturday, May 31st, as women from across Lagos gathered not just to trade—but to grow, connect, and be celebrated. The occasion was the monthly WaBiaZo Female Entrepreneurs (WFE) event, and this edition came with something extra special: a business grant giveaway in partnership with Huked Ltd.
Held in the heart of the marketplace, the event brought together women from various trades to share their stories, learn from one another, and support the rising momentum of grassroots entrepreneurship. At the centre of it all was the recognition of two remarkable women—Oshodi Yetunde, founder of Djamswear, and Akintelu Abisola, founder of Mamis Foods and Snacks—who were awarded business grants funded by Huked Ltd.
“These grants are not handouts,” said Omolara Alagbala, WFE leader. “They are a sign of trust in women who have shown resilience, dedication, and a belief in building together.”
The recipients spoke from the heart.
“I used to think I couldn’t go far because I’m a woman,” Yetunde shared. “But this platform changed me. I didn’t expect anything—just being part of this group gave me hope. Today, I feel seen and appreciated.”
Abisola expressed similar gratitude:
“This is not just financial help—it’s encouragement. It’s a reminder that I’m not alone. I’m proud to be part of this.”
The event featured discussions on customer service tailored to informal market settings—conversations that drew from cultural heritage while looking ahead to modern realities faced by women in trade.
A warm and unexpected highlight came when Uchechi Osuchukwu, Director of Huked Ltd and co-founder of WFE, joined the gathering via phone from the United Kingdom.
“This platform belongs to all of you,” she told the group. “We’re not just offering support—we’re building a platform where no woman is left behind.”
The event concluded with a sense of unity, pride, and momentum as the women reaffirmed their shared vision of rising together through trade, culture, and community.
WFE also used the opportunity to announce the next stop on its journey: its first-ever regional event outside Lagos, to be held in Owerri in June 2025. This expansion marks an important step in WFE’s commitment to reach and include women from all parts of the country who are engaged in trade.
“The Igbo region has always been known for its strong trading spirit,” one organiser shared. “WFE fits perfectly into that tradition. We’re excited for what’s ahead.”
“We’re excited to connect with more women across Nigeria,” said one of the organisers. “Every region has its strengths, and WFE is here to celebrate, support, and unify women in business—wherever they are.”
The May event was also supported by partners including WaBiaZo Fest, Eatsome, and Ceeyah, whose contributions continue to strengthen WFE’s mission of empowering women through culture, commerce, and collaboration.
In a time when many women in trade face barriers and limited recognition, WFE and Huked are offering something different: a platform grounded in encouragement, education, and practical support—proving that true empowerment starts from the ground up.
