On the 19th and 20th of September 2024, Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State, witnessed a historic event as fashion designer and entrepreneur, Prudent Gabriel, hosted a 2-day FREE Empowerment and Corset Masterclass.
This remarkable event, aimed at giving back to her home state, attracted over 1.5 million registrants and thousands of attendees from within and beyond Akwa Ibom. Attendees filled the venue early, with some arriving as early as 4 a.m., eager to secure a seat at this life-changing program. The crowd was so massive that many stood outside, determined to participate.
Prudent Gabriel, a proud daughter of Akwa Ibom, launched this masterclass to uplift young people—those who are confused about their career paths, unsure about their dreams, or struggling to jump-start their businesses.
Prudent emphasized that the class was designed for those who have been at home too long after school or are uncertain about starting a business. She also reached out to fashion designers specifically struggling with corset making and growing their businesses.
The event featured some of the most sought-after names in Nigeria’s fashion industry, including Veekee James, Medlin Boss, and Nosa Edeh Aisosah. Each of these award-winning designers shared their journeys, expertise, and business strategies.
Joining them were business experts Mr. Aniekeme Finbarr and Mr. Gabriel Effiong, both of whom focused on the entrepreneurial aspect of the program, speaking about structuring businesses for growth and creating multiple income streams. Special guest Peterson Okopi, who is also Gabriel’s husband, led an inspiring worship and impartation session that closed the event.
Prudent Gabriel’s masterclass was worth millions but was completely free for registered attendees. She spoke passionately about her mission to empower the youth of Akwa Ibom: “This class is my gift to my state, to empower the dreamers, visionaries, young entrepreneurs, and those who’ve lost hope in their businesses,” she said.
The event also featured massive giveaways to support budding entrepreneurs. A total of N2 million was awarded to four individuals to kickstart their businesses, two industrial machines were given away to help new designers, and Medlin Boss gifted N400,000 to two lucky attendees.
Additionally, two full scholarships were awarded for training at the Prudential Fashion Academy, Gabriel’s own institution, which has trained over 5,000 students and styled top Nigerian celebrities such as Mercy Chinwo, Liquorose, Tacha and Queen Nelly of Big Brother Naija Season 9.
This masterclass has sparked a new wave of entrepreneurial zeal across Akwa Ibom, empowering thousands to take control of their futures and make bold steps towards success.
