UNDP Nigeria, in partnership with LeLook Bags Academy, has launched a training program designed to equip unemployed youth with limited formal education, primarily women, with practical skills in bag-making as a sustainable livelihood mechanism. The onboarding ceremony for the participants was held on 2nd October 2024 at the LeLook Bags Academy premises in Abuja, marking the start of a journey aimed at empowering young persons from underserved groups with valuable, employable skills. 

The programme, titled “LeLook and Learn”, will span over a three-month period and will feature a fully experiential, hands-on approach tailored to participants' diverse needs, including those with hearing and speech impairments. Over the course of the program, participants will progressively master advanced bag-making techniques, ensuring they are well-equipped to contribute effectively to the manufacturing sector.

Aligned with UNDP’s HerAfCFTA initiative and the #HerFacility component, the training seeks to cultivate a skilled workforce supportive of Nigeria’s growth under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). This strategic focus underscores the program’s role in preparing participants to meet international standards in bag manufacturing, crucial for leveraging opportunities within AfCFTA.

Ms. Clare Henshaw, National Programmes Specialist and Lead on the HerAfCFTA initiative stated that the “LeLook and Learn program is pivotal in UNDP’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians, particularly women and marginalized groups. By imparting practical skills, we aim not only to foster self-sufficiency but also to cultivate an inclusive, skilled workforce that can drive Nigeria’s economic transformation through enhanced trade under AfCFTA."

The current cohort targets 100 unemployed youth with limited formal education, with the majority being women and special considerations for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). Participants were selected through a rigorous application process that included affirmative action provisions to ensure inclusivity, particularly for women and PWDs. This careful selection process underscores the initiative’s commitment to providing opportunities for marginalized groups, ensuring that all participants gain valuable skills that enhance their employability and empower them for future economic participation. 

Chief Mrs. Chinwe Ezenwa, Managing Director and CEO of LeLook Bag Academy shared her entrepreneurial journey, urging participants to seize the opportunity of a lifetime. "LeLook’s journey is a testament to dedication and tenacity. Today, I stand before you, eager to empower the next generation of LeLooks—youth who will not only transform their own lives but also uplift their communities. I encourage you to embrace this training wholeheartedly and explore its boundless potential."

The partnership between LeLook Bags Academy and UNDP Nigeria exemplifies a strategic effort to empower Nigeria’s youth by equipping them with marketable skills that will not only improve their livelihoods but also contribute to the country's manufacturing sector. By developing a skilled workforce ready to participate in trade under the AfCFTA, this initiative is positioned to support Nigeria’s broader economic growth. As participants gain the expertise to meet international production standards, they are poised to drive increased trade opportunities, bolstering both national development and the continent's economic integration.

About Le Look Bags Academy

Established in 2019 by the CEO of Le Look Bags, the Academy is recognized as a premier institution for mastering the art of bag-making and digital technology skills. A personalized approach is adopted to equip learners with the skills needed to excel in today's competitive landscape. Set in a tranquil environment in Abuja, the campus is equipped with advanced resources to offer unparalleled learning experiences. 

The Academy’s mission focuses on sensitizing, training, and empowering women and youths in bag manufacturing to produce locally and sell globally.

About UNDP 

UNDP is the leading United Nations international development organization working in 170 countries to eradicate poverty and reduce inequality. UNDP helps countries to develop policies, leadership skills, partnering abilities, institutional capabilities, and to build resilience to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. Our work is concentrated in three focus areas: sustainable development, democratic governance and peace building, and climate and disaster resilience.

UNDP supports the government of Nigeria in the implementation of development interventions aimed at meeting the medium to long term goals and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030.

About HerAfCFTA Program

The HerAfCFTA program aimed at boosting Nigerian women's participation in intra-African trade. The goal is to break down barriers, create opportunities, and turn the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) into an accessible space for women entrepreneurs. By driving gender equality through trade and investment, the program unlocks Africa's vast potential, positioning women at the heart of economic progress and ensuring that their businesses thrive across the continent.

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Media Contact

Christabel Chanda-Ginsberg

Public Engagement, Outreach and Partnerships Lead

Email:christabel.chanda-ginsberg@undp.org

Ekewuba Chioma Hilda

SA Technical Administrator

Lelookhomeofbag@gmail.com