Young Nigerian professionals shone at the 2025 yearly general meeting (AGM) and End of Year Awards of the Junior Chamber International (JCI) Aberdeen.

The group has been developing young professionals in the North East of Scotland for over 77 years.

Beyond celebrating the year’s achievements, the gathering facilitated the official transition of leadership, welcoming the 2026 Local Board in alignment with the organisation’s “One Year to Lead” philosophy.

The day was marked by a unique synergy as JCI Scotland concurrently held its national AGM at the same Leonardo Hotel venue, highlighting the interconnectedness of local and national leadership. Members, alumni, and senators reflected on a year defined by community impact and personal development.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to honouring the individuals and projects that shaped the chapter’s success over the past twelve months.

Recognising excellence in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), the ‘Somebody Cares Volunteering’ initiative, led by Cynthia Thomas, was named Most Outstanding Programme.

Thomas’s rapid ascent within the organisation was further cemented as she received the Rising Star Award. In the Personal Skills Development (PSD) category, the “Introduction to Product Management” course, led by Dapo Richards, took top honours.

The national stage was not left out, as the “National Conference: Purpose is Power,” directed by Dorcas Lamptey, was awarded the Most Outstanding Programme overall. Individual accolades celebrated the diverse talents within the chapter.

Jointly named Most Outstanding Members were Dorcas Lamptey and Ben Carron, while Imade Osarumwense emerged as a double winner, clinching both the Best New Member and Public Speaker of the Year awards. The Internationalism Award was presented to Isabel Simon, recognising the chapter’s commitment to global citizenship.

Reflecting on the year’s momentum, the 2025 Local President, Dapo Richards, addressed the members on January 25, 2026, stating: “Congratulations to the incoming leadership team. A passionate, capable group ready to build on our momentum and take JCI Aberdeen to even greater heights,” he said.

Professional Product Manager, Richards, who has been a driving force in the chapter since 2023, emphasised that the transition marks a prospective new chapter for the organisation as it continues to foster positive change.

Since its founding in 1944, JCI Aberdeen has remained a pivotal institution for individuals aged 18 to 40, providing a platform for leadership training, networking, and community-led projects.

As the 2026 board takes the reins, the chapter noted that it remains committed to its mission of empowering young people to create sustainable impact in Aberdeen and beyond.