The Crimson Bow Sickle Cell Initiative has made significant strides in supporting the sickle cell community with its recent event, Project Empower a Warrior 3.0. This year’s theme, “Health and Wealth: Balancing Entrepreneurship in Sickle Cell,” focused on equipping 250 sickle cell patients with vital skills and financial support to enhance their livelihoods.
Skills for Success
The initiative provided training in a variety of entrepreneurial skills, empowering participants to explore diverse avenues for income. The skills offered included:
- Photography
- Graphic Design
- Catering
- Soap Making
- Disinfectant and Bleach Production
- Perfume Making
- Make-Up Artistry
These workshops are crucial as they not only teach valuable skills but also inspire self-sufficiency among participants.
A Platform for Discussion
Moderated by Adebola Adedeji, a panel discussion on balancing health and entrepreneurship explored the unique challenges faced by sickle cell patients. This discussion was not just informative but also served as a support network, connecting participants with experts and peers who understand their experiences.
Financial Support for Entrepreneurs
As part of the event, 10 outstanding participants received N50,000 each to kickstart or enhance their business ventures. This funding is vital, but the highlight was the Business Pitch Competition. The winners received substantial cash prizes:
- 1st Place: N500,000
- 2nd Place: N250,000
- 3rd Place: N150,000
These grants can be transformative, providing recipients with the resources they need to turn their business ideas into reality.
Inspiring Hope and Well-Being
Timi Edwin, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Crimson Bow, emphasised the organisation’s commitment to empowering sickle cell individuals to live life to the fullest. Edwin, who is also a sickle cell patient, shared that the goal of the initiative is to:
- Inspire hope
- Improve health and well-being
- Encourage entrepreneurship
Edwin’s personal journey adds a powerful narrative to the initiative, demonstrating resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
A Call for Community Support
The event featured Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the wife of the Lagos State Governor, as the special guest of honour. Represented by Mrs. Toyin Suarau, she underscored the importance of stakeholder support in ensuring that individuals with sickle cell disease can lead fulfilling lives.
Dr. Sanwo-Olu’s presence highlighted the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of the sickle cell community, and her call for collaboration resonated with everyone in attendance.
Collaborating for Change
Feyisayo Alayande, Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), spoke about the agency’s employability programmes aimed at helping residents, including those with sickle cell disease, to contribute meaningfully to society.
Alayande stated:
“We understand the unique challenges faced by those with sickle cell disease, particularly in balancing their health with entrepreneurial pursuits. We believe that everyone, regardless of their health condition, deserves the opportunity to achieve their dreams.”
Government Support for Sickle Cell Patients
The Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, acknowledged the significant impact of sickle cell disorder in Nigeria. He mentioned that the state government has made considerable efforts to support patients.
Under his representation by Dr. Bodunrin Osikomaiya, Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Services, it was revealed that over a thousand units of blood have been provided to sickle cell patients during their crisis moments.
Why This Matters
Sickle cell disease affects millions, and initiatives like Project Empower a Warrior 3.0 are vital. They offer more than just skills; they provide hope, community, and the means to achieve economic independence.
Conclusion
The Crimson Bow Sickle Cell Initiative is making a significant difference in the lives of sickle cell patients. By providing skills, financial support, and fostering a supportive community, they are paving the way for a brighter future. The impact of these efforts extends beyond individual patients, encouraging a broader societal change in how sickle cell disease is perceived and addressed.
By empowering these warriors, we not only uplift their lives but also enrich our communities as a whole.
