Transcorp Hotels Plc has graduated the 16th cohort of its Business Empowerment Programme for Women (BEPW), reaffirming its commitment to empowering young women, supporting entrepreneurship, and promoting inclusive economic growth.

The programme, one of the hospitality company’s flagship sustainability initiatives, equips participants with practical tailoring skills alongside training in business management, financial literacy, marketing, and customer service.

According to a statement by the company, the initiative, launched in 2016 in partnership with ACE Charity, has empowered 64 young women with the skills, confidence, and resources needed to build sustainable businesses and contribute to their communities and Nigeria’s economy.

At the end of the six-month training, beneficiaries receive sewing machines and other essential equipment to help them immediately establish their businesses.

The programme also promotes environmental sustainability by repurposing used hotel bedding for practical tailoring sessions, reducing waste while encouraging circular fashion practices.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Transcorp Hotels Plc, Uzoamaka Oshogwe, said the initiative reflects the company’s belief that hospitality extends beyond delivering exceptional guest experiences.

“We believe hospitality goes beyond the experiences we create within our hotels. Through this programme, we are investing in young women, supporting entrepreneurship, creating social and economic impact, and promoting sustainability,” she said.

Oshogwe congratulated the latest graduates, expressing confidence that they would establish thriving businesses, create employment opportunities, and make meaningful contributions to their communities and the nation’s economy.

She added that Transcorp Hotels Plc remains committed to redefining hospitality in Africa by combining business excellence with positive social, economic, and environmental impact.

Transcorp Hotels Plc, the hospitality subsidiary of Transnational Corporation Plc, operates the iconic Transcorp Hilton Abuja and the recently inaugurated 5,000-seat capacity Transcorp Centre, while continuing to expand its sustainability and community development initiatives across Nigeria.