Empowering the Future: SHIFT UP AFRICA’s Groundbreaking Internship Program

Navigating the world of work is a challenge for young graduates in Nigeria. SHIFT UP AFRICA addresses this by providing the mindset, tools, and access needed for professional and personal success. In December 2023, SHIFT UP AFRICA launched its first internship program. The inaugural cohort of interns is being equipped to reshape their career outlook, imbibe success principles, and master design skills while working cohesively using Agile methodologies.

Six months in, the results are extraordinary. On Friday, May 17, 2024, the program reached a new milestone with an inspiring in-person session featuring mentors – Ibijoke Faseun Oyewole, Fehintoluwa Oduekun, Olajuwon Marc, Adunola Akindele and Buduka Johnson. The mentors shared invaluable insights and personal experiences, empowering the interns with practical knowledge and a renewed sense of purpose. With this solid foundation, the interns are better prepared to tackle the complexities of the modern workplace and excel in their careers.

Ibijoke Faseun Oyewole, the initiative convener shares that, “Our aim was to equip young people with the right mindset, key success principles, sound work ethics, agile methodologies, and strong presentation skills. Seeing their transformation has been rewarding—many secured jobs within three months, and numerous testimonials highlight improved confidence and growth. Our goal as well is to develop graduates with the right mindset, work ethics, values, and skills to excel in their careers and lives. We want them to thrive, achieve excellence, and contribute positively to society.”

Bolatito Aina, Franklin Ogbe, Damilola Lawal, Anuoluwapo Adeyemi, Michelle Ohia, Opeoluwa Ogunnaike, Akinola Faith, Pelumi Juba and Oke-Etume Akpo are some of the interns who benefitted immensely off this project. Bolatito Aina reminisces that, “It has been transformative. I’ve learned to believe in myself and eradicate self-sabotage, becoming agile and resilient. Three months into the program, I secured two job offers after years of waiting.”

In the next five years, Shift Up Africa aims to impact over 100,000 graduates, equipping them to confidently tackle challenges, build strong teams, and deliver excellent work. With the support of partners, mentors, and the broader community, the organization is poised to achieve its vision of a more empowered and prosperous professional landscape in Nigeria.