76 PJI beneficiaries who completed our 3-month Adult Literacy Initiative and 6-week Business School, both tailored to meet their needs, from reading and writing to budgeting and customer service, excitedly attended their graduation ceremony on June 3oth, 2025.
The ceremony began with a special session with a guest trainer who spoke about personal growth and how beneficiaries officially register their businesses with Nigeria’s Corporate Affairs Commission. A further session explored next steps after adult literacy, helping the women envision a future with continued learning, building on what they had gained and how to take practical steps towards long-term independence.
A highlight of the day was hearing from some of the women who had already started businesses with our support. They spoke with pride about applying what they learned managing money, relating with customers, and navigating real-life challenges. For many, it was their first time owning something of personal value. We were thrilled to find that they are thriving.
In a deeply moving moment, each woman took our anti-trafficking pledge, committing to never return to exploitation and to speak up for others who might be at risk.
At the close of the ceremony, they each received certificates of completion, care packages, refreshments, and a transportation stipend. And of course, there were photos, lots of them, proudly taken with their graduation stoles, beaming with the kind of joy that only comes from overcoming. We celebrate these women not just for finishing, but for daring to begin.
‘Project Restore’ is funded by a grant from the United States Department of State, to which we are grateful. The opinions, findings, and conclusions presented are Pathfinders Justice Initiative’s and do not necessarily reflect the views of the United States Department of State.
To support our work, please email info@pathfindersji.org.
