Nigerian filmmaker, Chinney Love Eze, has empowered 100 women as part of efforts to give back to society.
The film producer also supported some businesses with funds at the second edition of her empowerment programme, tagged ‘Be More with ChinneyLove’, at the Oriental Hotel, Lagos.
Speaking at the event, Chinney said the programme was meant to empower women and provide opportunities for them to learn. She said it was also organised to support and motivate women to have confidence that they can do more.
Chinney, who spoke about her struggles to reach the top in the entertainment industry, shared the principles she lives by to inspire the attendees.
She also stressed the need for a can-do spirit and diligence to achieve success, urging women to change their mindset and learn to maximise their strength.
The filmmaker spoke about setting goals and laying out plans to achieve them. “I don’t like people that don’t have a direction. You must know what you want and set targets for yourself.”
On what inspired her to empower women, she said: “Women can be better than what they are. We can be more. Having this second edition is exciting for me, and the most important thing is what they go home with. There are some people that participated in the programme, and have become better. The goal is for them to utilise the knowledge they have acquired at the event and become better versions of themselves.”
The filmmaker added that the programme was aimed at challenging stereotypes and changing the narrative that confined women to traditional roles.
“The motivation is to change the narrative that women are only good for the other room, the kitchen, and childbirth. We want to change the narrative that women are weaker vessels,” she stressed.
According to her, the benefits available for female entrepreneurs are numerous. “Last year, we gave some young female entrepreneurs laptops after they made successful business pitches. This year, one person will be getting N1 million to be invested in their business. Two individuals who are already running businesses but need more will be assisted as well,” she added.
Chief Executive Officer, Optiva Capital Partners, Jane Kimemia, one of the sponsors of the event, said the firm loves to support causes that have to do with women empowerment, noting that it is part of their corporate social responsibility.
At the event, Jenevier Crusader of Springs Oil won N1 million for best business plan while Imabekhai Ochuwa Glory of Bakes Exquisite and Sharon Eimiana of The Fashion Room received N250, 000 each to support their businesses.
