As part of its ongoing effort to empower artisans and nurture young talent, JamaJama, through its foundation, held a skills and community empowerment event in Makoko, Sabo, Yaba, Lagos State, to mark the Christmas celebration.
The initiative, which saw over 100 artisans and children in attendance, provided starter packs, artisan tools, school books, food items, and other essential support. The foundation also hired local artisans to prepare food, fostering a sense of community while ensuring participants had a full, hands-on experience.
Speaking to The PUNCH, Chief Operating Officer of JamaJama, Abiola Sodiq, said the initiative aims to bridge the gap between young artisans and their potential clients.
“In the past, artisans were often misunderstood, but today, the most sensible people are those learning practical skills,” Sodiq said. “We want to encourage children and young people to embrace skills alongside formal education.”
The event forms part of JamaJama’s wider plan to support artisans through its digital platform, which allows registered users to showcase their skills and connect with clients. Sodiq noted that many artisans have registered on the platform since its launch last year, and the foundation has successfully completed over 100 jobs to date.
In addition to skill development, participants received tools tailored to their trades, including hairdryers for stylists, paintbrushes and rollers for painters, electrical gloves and testers for electricians, graters for carpenters, scissors and tools for tailors, clippers for barbers, baking scales, aprons, and branded jackets for mechanics.
“This initiative is not about profit,” Sodiq said. “It is about creating opportunities, nurturing talent, and fostering a sustainable community of skilled artisans.” She added that the foundation plans to expand its outreach and partner with government agencies, including the National Directorate of Employment, to further support upcoming cohorts of artisans.
The foundation’s efforts highlight a growing focus on practical skill development as a pathway to employment and entrepreneurship, particularly in underserved communities like Makoko. JamaJama’s digital platform is set to launch its full app in January, promising a more seamless connection between artisans and clients across Lagos and beyond.
By empowering artisans and children alike, the JamaJama Foundation is helping to cultivate skills, create jobs, and strengthen community bonds, making tangible contributions to economic empowerment in Nigeria’s urban communities.
