The Elambi association, in collaboration wiht Ideal-conseil, has launched a groundbreaking pan-African initiative aimed at fostering entrepreneurship among children. Announced on January 9, 2025, the project, known as the Family and Community Entrepreneurship Program (PPIEEFC), will kick off with awareness campaigns and training sessions in Libreville, expanding to eight provinces by November. The initiative, wich targets vulnerable children aged 0 to 12, emphasizes intergenerational training to empower youth in business creation. Sidonie Ikoudje essoukou and Lebigot, founder of Elambi, highlighted the association’s commitment to holistic child progress, ensuring that these young entrepreneurs receive comprehensive support in social, economic, and educational spheres.
Q&A with Sidonie Ikoudje Essoukou and Lebigot, Founders of the Family and Community Entrepreneurship Program (PPIEEFC)
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today to discuss the groundbreaking initiative, the Family and Community Entrepreneurship Program (PPIEEFC). Can you tell us what inspired the creation of this program?
Sidonie Ikoudje Essoukou: Thank you for having us. The inspiration behind PPIEEFC stems from our commitment to invest in the future of children, particularly those from vulnerable backgrounds. We recognise that entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool for empowerment and social mobility. Our goal is to provide these children with the skills, knowledge, and support they need to become triumphant entrepreneurs and contribute positively to thier communities.
Time.news Editor: This initiative targets children aged 0 to 12. How does intergenerational training play a role in nurturing these young entrepreneurs?
Lebigot: Intergenerational training is basic to our approach. It involves not only teaching children entrepreneurial skills but also engaging their families and communities. By incorporating wisdom and experiance from older generations, we can create a supportive surroundings that fosters learning, collaboration, and innovation. This holistic approach ensures that children understand the value of entrepreneurship within a broader social context.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned that awareness campaigns and training sessions will start in Libreville and expand to eight provinces by November. What activities are planned for these initial sessions?
Sidonie Ikoudje Essoukou: Our initial sessions will include workshops focused on various aspects of entrepreneurship, such as business planning, financial literacy, and creative problem-solving. We’ll also conduct awareness campaigns to engage larger communities,emphasizing the importance of supporting children’s entrepreneurial aspirations.Collaborating with local educators and leaders will be key to,ensuring that we reach and resonate with as many families as possible.
Time.news Editor: What outcomes do you hope to achieve with this program within the next year?
Lebigot: Within the next year, we aim to establish a network of young entrepreneurs equipped with foundational business skills and a supportive community. Our focus will be on tracking the progress of these children, helping them develop real business ideas, and providing ongoing mentorship. We also hope to inspire other organizations to adopt similar initiatives, ultimately creating a movement that champions child entrepreneurship across the continent.
Time.news Editor: How can stakeholders within the business and education sectors contribute to the success of the PPIEEFC?
Sidonie Ikoudje Essoukou: Stakeholder engagement is crucial. Businesses can provide mentorship, resources, and even funding for initiatives we’re launching.Meanwhile, educational institutions can integrate entrepreneurial concepts into their curricula, fostering a mindset geared towards innovation from a young age. We encourage partnerships that reinforce the skills and opportunities available to these children.
Time.news Editor: What advice would you give to parents looking to encourage entrepreneurial skills in their children?
Lebigot: I would advise parents to create an environment where creativity is encouraged. Allow children to explore their interests and engage in activities that foster critical thinking, like solving puzzles or working on DIY projects. Additionally, discussing real-life business examples and involving them in family decision-making can spark their interest in entrepreneurship. Empowering them with choice and obligation lays the groundwork for future business leaders.
Time.news Editor: As the program develops, how do you plan to measure its impact on the participating children and their communities?
Sidonie Ikoudje Essoukou: We will implement a extensive evaluation system, tracking various metrics such as children’s engagement levels, business idea development, and family participation rates. Feedback from participants and community members will also be instrumental in assessing our impact and adapting our strategies over time. Our aim is to ensure that the program is not only successful in teaching skills but also in creating meaningful change in the children’s lives.
Time.news Editor: Thank you both for sharing your insights about the PPIEEFC. It’s clear that this initiative has the potential to create lasting change for children across Africa. We look forward to seeing its evolution.
Lebigot: Thank you for your interest and support. Together, we can inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Sidonie Ikoudje Essoukou: Thank you!