In a heartfelt initiative to uplift low-income entrepreneurs, the Funmilayo Charity Foundation has distributed durable, high-quality business umbrellas to small-scale traders in the Akoka community of Yaba, Lagos. This thoughtful gesture is part of the Foundation’s Small-Scale Business Support Program, which provides practical tools to informal traders, promoting dignity, stability, and economic growth.
The intervention followed a quiet needs assessment by the Foundation’s team weeks earlier. Without prior notice, traders operating without shelter or infrastructure were discreetly identified and selected. The surprise distribution was met with overwhelming gratitude, as beneficiaries received branded umbrellas to support and enhance their daily business operations.
Speaking on the impact of the project, Mr. Akeem Olanrewaju, Founder of the Funmilayo Charity Foundation, remarked:
“Many of these traders spend their entire day exposed to sun and rain, working tirelessly just to survive. We identified those most in need and provided mobile shelters—not only to protect their goods but to restore dignity and comfort in their daily work. This is what true empowerment looks like.”
The umbrellas, designed for durability and ease of use, will serve as essential coverings for fruit sellers, roadside vendors, and other informal business owners who previously operated without any protection. With this support, many traders will now be able to extend their working hours, attract more customers, and reduce losses caused by weather conditions.
This initiative underscores the Foundation’s core belief in responsive, community-driven solutions. Mr. Olanrewaju added:
“We don’t wait for people to ask for help. We go into the communities, observe their realities, and act. These umbrellas may seem simple, but for someone struggling to protect their means of livelihood, they symbolize security, hope, and a chance at a better tomorrow.”
The Akoka umbrella distribution is one of several empowerment initiatives spearheaded by the Foundation as part of its broader mission to alleviate poverty and foster inclusive growth. Beyond economic empowerment, the Foundation also supports initiatives in education, healthcare, vocational training, and humanitarian aid.
The Foundation is calling on individuals, development partners, and private-sector stakeholders to join forces in scaling up such impactful interventions. Small acts of support can trigger powerful ripple effects—strengthening families, stabilizing local economies, and restoring dignity to underserved communities.
About the Funmilayo Charity Foundation
The Funmilayo Charity Foundation is a registered non-profit organisation committed to serving vulnerable individuals and marginalised communities through initiatives in education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and humanitarian relief. Established in memory of the late Mrs. Funmilayo, the Foundation operates with a strong ethos of compassion, impact, and service to humanity.
For donations and partnerships, contact:
funmilayocharityfoundation@gmail.com
www.funmilayocharityfoundation.org
