International Breweries Foundation Holds 8th Kickstart Award Ceremony, Doles Out N600m To 425 Entrepreneurs

International Breweries Foundation, a CSR arm of International Breweries Plc is rewarding over 425 entrepreneurs with N600m this year through its Kickstart initiative aimed at promoting entrepreneurship among youths in Nigeria.

The initiative which is in its 8th edition is a national programme that gives oppourtunity to youths across Nigeria to fulfill their entrepreneurial dreams with the provision of material and financial support.

In his opening remarks at the event that took place at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, the Chairman of the International Breweries Foundation, Dr. Peter Bankole said “Once young people in Nigeria are empowered, we are on the route to a better Nigeria. In each passing year, I am always proud of International Breweries Foundation and International Breweries Plc for their unwavering commitment to the Kickstart initiative.

“Kickstart has remained steady in its mission to empower the leaders of tomorrow, individuals who have a single thought of growing sustainable businesses in Nigeria and the nearest communities. We have always kept our commitment to advancing entrepreneurship among people.

“We are in the 8th edition and this is exciting for me, for us to be here today, means we are really making massive progress. Within this period, we have spent over N600 million on about 425 beneficiaries across Nigeria.”

Speaking on the theme “From Ideas to Impact: Nurturing Young Entrepreneurs for Economic Growth” the keynote speaker, Mr. Paul Onwuanibe, Group CEO/Founder of Landmark Group said “You are exactly where you need to be to make the change you want to see”

He then highlighted some important tools needed to achieve one’s entrepreneurial goals. They are; increasing the surface area of your luck, understanding your market, knowing your numbers, audiences, and networking effectively.

In his words, “Good ideas are common. What is uncommon are those who will work hard enough to turn good ideas into reality.

However, having an Olympic mindset, taking personal responsibility for being the best, and solving problems will help turn ideas into reality. “The world’s biggest problem is its biggest opportunity.” He added.

The Managing Director, International Breweries Plc, Carlos Coutino while delivering his welcome address noted “For 8 years, Kickstart initiative has remained a beacon of hope for young Nigerians aspiring for greater heights in entrepreneurship. The initiative is aimed at transforming the landscape of Small and Medium Enterprises (SME).

“I’m very excited today, and as I stand before you, I will say that Kickstart is not just a project but a passion for us at International Breweries Plc.

Temitope Oguntokun, Legal and Corporate Affairs Director of International Breweries noted “Our focus over the years has been on agriculture and related areas. We have also ensured quality gender balance in the project. However, 52 per cent of our beneficiaries are women.”

The event also recognized and awarded the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Mrs. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the First Lady of Ogun State, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, and the First Lady of Osun State, Erelu Ngozi Adeleke.

The International Breweries Foundation launched in 2019 served as the platform for executing all CSR interventions and was part of the company’s commitment to deliver impactful, developmental, and sustainable projects across Nigeria.