The Progressive Minds Forum, a non-governmental and not-for-profit organization, has confirmed speakers for its first free training for youths in Lagos.
In a statement made available to newsmen on Wednesday by the President of the PMF, Babatunde Irukera, the speakers include Sebastine Okeke, Gboyega Soyanwo and Abimbola Soyode.
According to Irukera, Okeke shall lead other speakers in setting the stage for what is intended to be a robust training session for all participating youth in the State.
“We have carefully searched for and got few of the best hands in training and youth development in Nigeria. With Sebastine Okeke and others, we believe that participants will depart the training venue as changed human beings,” Irueka said.
Speaking on the preparations towards a successful hosting of the event, Irukera said all hands are on deck to ensure smooth run on the D-day.
He said: “We have done all that is necessary for us to achieve a hundred percent success. What is left is for interested participants to come to Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos on the 7th of July, 2018 and be part of a life changing event.”
On partnerships for the event, the General Secretary of the group, Tayo Gbajabiamila-Olamona, disclosed that various governmental and non-governmental organizations have indicated interest to be part of the event.
Gbajabiamila-Olamona said Lagos State Registration Agency as well as Lagos State Ambulance Service are among those that will participate at the event.
Speaking on expectations from the youth, Gbajabiamila-Olamona said there is need for them to come out en-masse for the training because it will bring about positive reorientation to their lives.
She said: “Our speakers are individuals of high repute. They are tested and trusted individuals in their various fields of specialisation.”
Okeke is a seasoned Strategic Human Resource Professional and Consultant, and Specialist in Corporate Management Strategy, Human Capital Resourcing, Talent Optimization, Organizational Performance Management, Training and Staff Development, Organizational Development and Corporate Design.
He holds a B.Sc. degree in Economics, a PGD in Education, an Executive MBA degree from the prestigious Lagos Business School and a PhD from NCU Florida, USA.
Soyode is s seasoned Banker with over 16 years’ experience in Banking, Taxation and Event Management.
Soyode is an effective organiser/representative of the Micro Enterprise Directorate of Bank of Industry.
She has been actively involved in identification of potential small businesses, disbursement of micro loans, full scale planning and execution of the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme.
The MSME Clinic has created a platform for her interaction with GEEP beneficiaries, provide opportunities for mentorship and provide solutions to various issues deliberated.
Soyanwo is a consummate administrator.
He is an alumnus of the prestigious Lagos Business School, the University of Lagos and an associate of the Institute of Chattered Economics of Nigeria.
Soyanwo has over 25 years in banking and he is currently the Director of Finance and Business Development of First Class Group Limited.