Victoria Mbangwa
For 30 teenagers from underserved suburbs of Abuja, the Mara-nathan Free Creative Arts Training has become more than just a skills programme it has opened doors to hope, self-reliance, and new career paths.
The one-week initiative, organised by the Mara-nathan Global Arts Foundation, equipped orphans and vulnerable youths with practical training in photography, painting, graphic design, social media management, video editing, and other creative disciplines.
At the closing exhibition on Sunday, Founder Mr. Lazarus Achimugu said the programme was designed to unlock hidden potential and provide young people with tools to build sustainable livelihoods.
Since 2017, we’ve used competitions and talent hunts to spotlight young Nigerians. “This year, we’ve taken another bold step with this Free Creative Arts Training, launched Aug. 25, to inspire creativity, growth, and personal development in vulnerable youths,” he said.
Achimugu noted that the foundation had previously organised initiatives such as the DAS (Dance, Acting, Singing) competition and Orphans Got Talent, both of which discovered and supported young talents with scholarships, cash prizes, and mentorship.
He called on government agencies, private organisations, and philanthropists to partner with the foundation to sustain and scale the programme nationwide.
“No child should be denied the chance to create because of hardship. With the right support, these voices can contribute meaningfully to national development,” he said.
For the beneficiaries, the programme was nothing short of transformative.
Victor Christopher, 18, said he gained confidence in photography and interior design. “I’ve learned so much. I really appreciate the organisers. This programme has impacted us greatly. We call on the government to support initiatives like this to empower more youths,” he said.
Similarly, Favour Kwalmi said she felt empowered to begin earning with the digital skills she acquired.
“You don’t need to pay big money to learn design. These are accessible skills, and they can help you build something meaningful from nothing,” she said.
Guests at the event praised the foundation’s consistency and impact. Pastor Esther Onyete of Redeemed Restoration Covenant Church urged more public-private partnerships, while Mr. Samson Ebiloma, a board member, described the training as a “powerful tool for national development.”
“The foundation is building the future of Nigeria, one empowered youth at a time,” Ebiloma said.
The programme climaxed with the presentation of certificates and a musical performance by the 2018 Mara-nathan Music Talent Hunt winner, drawing resounding applause from parents and well-wishers.
