A youth-focused empowerment initiative, ROZH, has equipped young women in Plateau and the Federal Capital Territory with vocational skills to promote African cultural values.

The initiator, Goodluck Hayi, disclosed this at the inauguration of the empowerment project in Abuja on Monday.

Mr Hayi said the project was inspired by his late wife, Zainab Hayi, to instil the virtues of good dressing, cultural awareness, confidence, and pride among young ladies.

He said the initiative was a dream brought to life, held deep personal significance and was dedicated to celebrating women, particularly mothers.

According to him, the first phase of the ROZH sewing project commenced in Jos in March 2024, with a planned duration through December 2024. Subsequent phases are scheduled for rollout in the following year.

“Our goal at ROZH is to empower young ladies with the virtues of good dressing, great culture, confidence and women’s pride,” he said.

Mr Hayi added that the project aimed at training skilled seamstresses who would eventually be established across all states of the federation.

He said the initiative’s current focus was on Plateau and the FCT, targeting individuals who valued and upheld African cultural values.

“Within two years of establishing ROZH in Plateau and FCT, we plan to expand to two additional states, promoting the same culture and brand tailored to African values,” Mr Hayi said.

He called on stakeholders and the public to support the initiative in promoting positive cultural identity and empowering women as key contributors to family and societal development.

He commended women, especially mothers, on Mother’s Day, acknowledging their role as the true African beauties and the wealth of every family.

Mr Hayi said the initiative was part of ongoing efforts by private individuals and organisations to enhance women’s empowerment and preserve cultural heritage through skill-acquisition programmes.

Some of the beneficiaries commended the organisers, saying that their empowerment would enable them to be self-employed and contribute their quota to society.

(NAN)