Idorenyin Nyabok Eberefak narrates her journey from being a beneficiary of Excellence Community Education Welfare Scheme (ECEWS) Underprivileged Scholarship Project to becoming a successful tailor and entrepreneur.

Idorenyin, once a girlchild at Christian Commercial Secondary School, UYO, would grow up to become a beacon of hope TO other GIRL CHILDREN through her fashion place, Notches Empire.

Nurturing her dreams…

When the ECEWS Communications Team visited Idorenyin in the colourful fashion home she has built, one of unique attires equipped with an array of sewing machines that were mounted by diligent trainees, her voice resonated with a mix of nostalgia and gratitude. She took us back to the beginning of her journey, revealing that ECEWS shaped her life through its Underprivileged Scholarship Project. Selected amongst some of the brightest students lacking the financial means to pursue their education at Christian Commercial Secondary School, Uyo, she became a beneficiary from SS 2 through graduation. It was two nurturing years as the project paved the way for an amazing future.

It was fascinating to hear how ECEWS played a pivotal role in her education. So we wanted to know how Idorenyin’s journey progressed, how things unfolded.

 A radiant smile graced Idorenyin’s face as she recounted the twists and turns on her path. After completing her secondary education, she found herself in need of a job, just so she could be able to take care of her basic needs. Turning to ECEWS, she was offered a position as a janitor in 2004. Initially, her role was primarily centered around reception duties. However, as time passed, her passion for creating positive change grew exponentially with projects and programs she witnessed firsthand, so she began to engage in undertaken by ECEWS. She became passionate, particularly in the field of sensitization, advocating for HIV/AIDS awareness on World AIDS Day and urging people to prioritize knowing their status for a healthier life. As her involvement grew, she transitioned from janitorial duties to actively participating in the organization’s initiatives. It was a transformative experience.

Multiple threads of passion. Fusing fashion with work at ECEWS.

 Idorenyin recalls that her fashion brand was born of her time at ECEWS. Balancing work and training, she carried her sewing machine to the office, meticulously crafting designs during breaks. The CEO, Mr. Andy, recognized her talent and encouraged me to continue pursuing her passion for tailoring. She later received a diploma from the University of Uyo and feels a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. While working at ECEWS, she also obtained her diploma from the University of Uyo.

Idorenyin’s personal growth as well as her desire to give back was influenced by ECEWS

 It was during the period she was an ECEWS Underprivileged Scholarship beneficiary that she was given a book titled “Think Big” by Ben Carson. Reading that book completely transformed her perspective on life. Idorenyin also realized that she had the power to dream big, to believe in herself, and to make a difference. This newfound belief instilled in her the desire to create opportunities for others and give back to the community. Inspired, she established Notches Empire, her own fashion school, where she offered scholarships to aspiring tailors for six-month training programs. Over a hundred students have graduated from Notches Empire and this data fills her with immense pride, as empowering young girls is a cherished aspect of her work.

IDORENYIN IS A BENEFICIARY OF THE ECEWS UNDERPRIVILEDGE SCHOLARSHIP PROJECT

A Grateful Journey: Reflections and Appreciation as someone who has experienced the impact of ECEWS firsthand.

Idorenyin is happy that ECEWS has now reached its 22nd year, having persevered through faith and prayer. She expresses gratitude to Mr. Andy Eyo and ECEWS Nigeria for the opportunities provided to countless individuals, further acknowledging the organization’s role in igniting the spark of change within beneficiaries, transforming them into agents of progress.

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