S.T.E.P. Cohort 6: Graduation of The Champions

On February 7, 2024, the Spurt! Training and Empowerment Programme (S.T.E.P.) Cohort 6 concluded with a remarkable graduation ceremony, marking the end of a transformative journey that commenced on November 19th. The event celebrated the achievements of the eight outstanding finalists, showcasing their dedication and growth throughout the programme.?

The ceremony, led by the anchor, Princess O. Edokpayi , Spurt!'s Chief Operating Officer, highlighted the meticulously designed nature of the S.T.E.P. initiative. It is a meticulously designed initiative that caters to the needs of university students, corps members, and fresh graduates in Africa. Princess emphasised that the programme, which commenced in 2021, addresses the critical lack of access to mentorship resources and work experience, providing participants with the necessary tools and technical know-how needed in today's dynamic professional landscape.?She also highlighted the program’s success stories, including graduates who now thrive within Spurt! Which is testament to the program’s real-world impact on career trajectories.?

The keynote speech, delivered by Chimdinma, a participant in the S.T.E.P. Cohort 6, provided valuable insights and encouragement to the new graduates. Chimdinma Adaugo Ihetu emphasised the importance of integrating the knowledge and skills acquired during the programme into their future endeavours. She urged the graduates to take full advantage of the mentorship programme and continuously build their expertise in their respective fields. Emphasising the significance of ongoing personal development, she advised the graduates to create and pursue personal development plans to enhance their skills and expertise even after the programme's conclusion.

The interns were celebrated for their unique talents and achievements, reflecting a strong foundation in various fields. Osaru, who interned in the Business Operations Unit, demonstrated remarkable proficiency in various analytical tools, reflecting a strong foundation in data analysis. Kolawole Hammed , a dedicated member of the Product Development unit, exhibited a fervent desire to evolve into a professional software developer, embodying a relentless commitment to continuous learning and growth. Ashley Lemonwu , an aspiring Biomedical Engineering undergraduate who interned with the Market Intelligence unit, diligently explored market trends and strategies to enhance products and services. Rhoda Ogungbemi , a master's student, brought a spirit of collaboration and adaptability to the People Operations unit, seamlessly navigating the dynamics of the role. Richmond Kofi Offei Anokye , who loves to write with a passion for project management and a fervent desire to mentor and inspire others, left an indelible mark on the Project Management unit. MICHAEL ADEWUYI , a recent graduate in chemical engineering, made significant contributions to the Product Support unit, showcasing a keen interest in advancing technological landscapes. Onismus James , a multifaceted writer with a deep-seated passion for digital marketing and partnerships, added a dynamic flair to the Sales and Partnership unit, exuding a natural talent for negotiation and relationship-building. Anyanwu Stephanie , a dedicated student of information technology, channelled her passion for programming into the Product Development unit, aspiring to become a proficient full-stack developer.

During the reflection session, the interns shared profound insights into their personal and professional growth throughout S.T.E.P. They discussed the challenges of maintaining discipline, the responsibility that comes with learning, and the process of adapting to new tools and processes. Additionally, they highlighted the practical application of their skills in a professional environment, the acquisition of new programming languages, and the importance of meeting deadlines, managing time, and collaborating remotely. Their reflections underscored the transformative nature of the programme and the invaluable lessons learned, which will undoubtedly shape their future endeavours.

The ceremony concluded with a closing remark by Opeyemi Odunsi , the Product Support Team lead, advising everyone to work hard, not to quit, to keep upskilling, and to maintain their network. The event captured the essence of dedication, growth, and the commitment to lifelong learning, leaving a lasting impression on all participants. The programme's focus on personal and professional development, as well as the dedication of individuals to empowerment, reflects?Spurt!’s?broader commitment to preparing individuals for the dynamic professional landscape and fostering continuous growth and learning.

?