Wigwe University’s fearless leadership series targets young Africans for continental impact

The HOW Foundation has launched the Wigwe University Fearless Leadership Series targeting young Africans for continental impact with the right mindset, mentorship, and practical tools to build businesses that last.

The leadership series is a flagship programming initiative within the Foundation’s strategic plan aligned with the founder’s vision to ignite Africa’s potential for prosperity, nurture thoughtful fearless leaders, and build the leading university on the continent — with its first event hosted at the Wigwe University campus in Isiokpo, Rivers State.

According to the Foundation, the Wigwe University Fearless Leadership Series is Foundation’s commitment to turning Wigwe’s vision for the university into actionable conversations that does not wait for the future but begins building it now.

The maiden leadership series was held in collaboration with Tara Fela-Durotoye, entrepreneur, author, and founder of House of Tara International, as the series’ inaugural partner. The series, designed to equip young Africans had in attendance over 320 students from Wigwe University, the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State University, and Abia State University, alongside youth leaders from the host community of Isiokpo.

Emmanuel Attat, the university’s Public Relations officer, moderated a fireside chat exploring the practical lessons behind Tara’s journey building House of Tara International into one of Nigeria’s most recognised beauty and lifestyle brands.

The series also marked the first stop of Tara Fela-Durotoye’s national campus tour, celebrating her new book, ‘Building Beyond You: The House of Tara Story.’

“This event reflects the kind of programming Wigwe University was founded to host — and the kind of leaders The HOW Foundation exists to build. You may not have the full picture — but you must have the courage to take a step,” Fela-Durotoye stated.

In post-event feedback by students, disclosed that the series will spur them on towards pursuing or continuing building their business idea. “You don’t have to start big. You can start small and build a legacy,” Adika Tamarabrakemi stated. Akpana Lolia added: “No business blows overnight. You have to keep trying and believe in yourself and what you do.”