Nestlé Professional has reaffirmed its commitment to youth entrepreneurship by training over 300 young Nigerians through its My Own Business (MYOWBU) program in Lagos. The workshop, held recently, was part of the brand’s drive to equip street vending operators and attendants with vital business and life skills.
The MYOWBU initiative, which operates across Central and West Africa, empowers young people by helping them build careers through street vending of Nestlé’s popular products like NESCAFÉ and MILO. Beyond vending, the program offers participants a sustainable path to employment, income generation, and long-term self-reliance.
Speaking at the workshop, Mrs. Funmi Osineye, Business Manager, Nestlé Professional, highlighted the company’s belief in the power of entrepreneurship to transform lives.
“This workshop is not just about technical know-how. It’s about building confidence, nurturing ambition, and growing a community of passionate entrepreneurs who proudly represent our brands,” she said.
The training featured sessions on business management, hygiene, food safety, customer service, and waste management. Participants received expert guidance from industry professionals including Mr. Sulaimon Abolore, Assistant Director at the Lagos State Ministry of Commerce, Cooperative, Trade and Investment, and Dr. Ajibabi Awosika of Nestlé Nigeria.
Abolore commended Nestlé for its role in job creation, describing the program as a vital contribution to youth empowerment in the state.
“We’re impressed by Nestlé’s commitment to tackling youth unemployment. MYOWBU aligns with our efforts at the Lagos State Government to create sustainable opportunities for young people,” he said.
Participants also shared personal success stories that underscored the program’s real-world impact. Adeosun Michael, the longest-serving MYOWBU operator with two decades of experience, described the initiative as life-changing.
“I left the streets, built a home, and now I provide for my family. This program taught me that hard work and consistency pay off,” he said.
Similarly, Joseph Abraham, who began as a pushcart vendor, now runs his own Nestlé distribution business.
“Thanks to the foundation I received through MYOWBU, I’ve grown into a full-fledged distributor. Dreams do come true,” he noted.
In line with its sustainability goals, Nestlé Professional also introduced the Clean with MYOWBU initiative during the workshop. The program mobilized 132 vending operators in Lagos to collect and recycle used NESCAFÉ and MILO wrappers, recovering over 175kg of packaging waste. This effort reflects Nestlé’s broader commitment to environmental responsibility and circular economy practices.
Since its inception, MYOWBU has created over 1,500 jobs nationwide, providing participants with branded pushcarts, shoulder kits, and essential startup tools. The program continues to evolve as a model for impactful youth entrepreneurship and shared value creation.
Nestlé Professional says it remains committed to supporting aspiring entrepreneurs—not only with equipment, but with mentorship, training, and a clear path to business ownership.
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