By Eberechi Obinagwam
The Shun Unemployment Foundation, in collaboration with Jobberman and Techbeavers, has announced the launch of the CampusPitch drive initiative. This comprehensive pan-campus campaign cultivates an entrepreneurial mindset among undergraduates in higher institutions throughout Nigeria. This initiative addresses unemployment by empowering students to create viable business solutions for the local economy.
Mayowa Ajibodu, the founder of Shun Unemployment, emphasised giving students equal opportunities to articulate innovative ideas. “Through the CampusPitch drive, we are committed to empowering our youth to tackle unemployment creatively and effectively,” Ajibodu stated.
Participants in this edition of CampusPitch were selected through a careful screening process, which ensured that all students were given a fair chance to represent their campuses. Each participant shared their unique approach to addressing unemployment within their communities as undergraduates.
Following the selection process, the shortlisted students were invited to Lagos, where they showcased their innovative pitches before a panel of esteemed judges. The competition culminated in a dynamic event at the NERDC building in Ikeja on October 29th, where three exemplary students from different universities emerged as the top winners.
In CampusPitch Drive initiative 2024, six were selected from over fifty applicants as top finalists. Among these six top finalists, three people made it to the top including;
Sulaiman Wafiyat from the University of Ilorin, Solomon Olaleye, Obafemi Awolowo University, Obodoma Bright, University of Nigeria, Success Ekudehinwa, Funnab, Collins Akin, FUTA, Abigail Sunmola, University of Lagos.
Abigail Sunmola Oluwafemi from the University of Lagos secured first place with a cash prize of N500,000 for her healthy and food business. She expressed her gratitude, stating, “It is an honour to be the winner. I want to thank the organisers for this opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives. I will never forget the CampusPitch Drive Initiative. The Shun Unemployment Foundation has helped me get closer to my dream. To the youth, I say: never give up on your dreams. We learn every day, and it’s important to take steps forward.”
Obodoma Bright, a student from the University of Nsukka, proudly secured second place with a cash prize of N300,000 for his innovative e-commerce site.I first discovered the program through an Instagram post and, intrigued by the opportunity, decided to apply. To my delight, I was selected among the top six contestants.
Bright emphasised that travelling to Lagos for the program was an exciting experience, as it brought together some of the brightest minds in the field. The competition was intense and filled with individuals who demonstrated exceptional talent and creativity. Each challenge tested our skills and pushed us to think outside the box, making the experience both demanding and enriching.
“I want to thank the Shun Unemployment Foundation for organising such an impactful initiative. Their commitment to empowering young entrepreneurs is truly commendable. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to participate in this program, which has enhanced my skills and connected me with like-minded individuals.”
Success Ekudehinwa from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNNAB), expressed his gratitude after finishing in third place with a cash prize of N200,000 for his Digital Creative project. He stated, “I am glad to be part of this initiative; I appreciate the team’s hard work on this project. I’m so happy to be a beneficiary; it has motivated me to do more in my career. Thank you, Shun Unemployment Foundation, for this opportunity. I look forward to a better Nigeria.
“Life is like a dream; it’s important to keep dreaming and strive to be the best version of yourself. One day, people will recognise you for your efforts, and it will pay off,” he stated.
These winners received a cash prize of 1,000,000 Naira and gained access to additional empowerment opportunities facilitated by our partners, Jobberman and Techbeaver. “We believe that by supporting these young entrepreneurs, we are investing in the future economic growth of Nigeria,” Ajibodu added.
The panel of judges for the CampusPitch includes, Mrs. Kemisola Adebayo, is a seasoned professional in the corporate travel industry with over a decade of experience. Mr. Olawale Omotaje, an accomplished civil servant with extensive experience in administration and human resources. Mr. Shina Arogundade, CEO of Tech Beavers. Under his leadership, Mr. Femi Adelayo, the CEO of Facco WestAfrica. As a life coach and communications consultant and Mr. Wole Durojaiye, the CEO of Market Equity Nigeria, a prominent FX brokerage firm.
Shun Unemployment remains committed to eradicating unemployment through innovative solutions and sustainable empowerment platforms, ensuring that young minds are equipped to contribute meaningfully to the economy.
Shun Unemployment is an initiative to empower Nigerian youth through entrepreneurial training, mentorship, and funding opportunities. The organisation strives to create a future where young people can thrive as innovative business leaders.
