Simbi and Tejumade are two friends working for an upscale multinational company in the manufacturing space. At today’s town hall meeting, they were informed of the company’s decision to wind down its operations in the country as a result of the “unfavourable operating conditions in their host country.” Although the announcement did not catch most employees unawares, they had secretly hoped that the company would continue to weather the storms and keep them gainfully employed. Simbi and Teju, as she was fondly called, simultaneously heaved a huge sigh as they retreated to their favourite relaxation spot in the staff canteen to mull over the information. The news required careful consideration given the harsh economic realities and dearth of viable employment opportunities at the time.

“Teju, your situation is better than mine,” Simbi opined. “At least, Lanre still has his job. My Nnamdi got laid off about a year ago and has been begging to apply since then. I had since assumed the role of the breadwinner and we have managed on my salary and a few contracts Nnamdi has been able to secure.” Teju shook her head in sympathy and replied “Hm… my dear sister, what will happen now, especially with the two children currently in secondary school? Honestly, I wish there were something I can do to assist.” Simbi responded with a smile and a rhetorical phrase – “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” She continued “The announcement actually came as no surprise as we all expected it at some time or the other because the signs were pretty evident, so I had actually come up with my plan in the face of any eventuality. I had weighed my options by considering my latent skills and talents which I can now harness for revenue generation. I owe it to my mother who insisted that during my university vacations and in my NYSC (National Youth Service Corps) year, I pick up millinery skills and baking. I will do some refresher courses and brush up on these skills. I guess I could probably make more than I earned as a salary if I concentrate on these two business streams and having worked in an organised sector like ours has its advantages in assisting me better manage the businesses.”

“Lucky you,” Teju replied. I am not that blessed as I have no learned skills outside of my formal education and work experience. Lanre will have to pick up the tab for all bills until I can secure another job.”

“Not so” Simbi replied. “Do not forget you are meant to be a help mate to your husband, not a liability. You must look inward to your innate abilities and talents and use them. This is the time to utilise our training and think outside the box.” “I remember the small chops you made from scratch for your daughter’s naming ceremony a few years back. They were delicious with a unique flavour. Have you thought of commercialising it and expanding your scope? It is never too late to learn a new skill. You will be surprised at what you can achieve.”

“So true” replied Teju. “I like the positive angle you have taken on this. You know, I have a cousin who suffered a similar fate two years ago and has not been able to secure employment since then. All she does is sit at home, mope, and reach out to extended family members for help. The situation has taken a toll on her marriage and health…hmmm, I really think women should understand their empowerment by taking control of their lives. That should reduce the number of able-bodied women I now see begging on the streets.”

Simbi nodded in agreement. “Yes, indeed Teju. I actually consider such women who are begging – lazy. What happened to roasting yams, plantain, groundnut, corn, and the like? Some women even help carry purchases in the marketplace, all in order to earn a living. There is dignity in labour.”

Havilah is of the opinion that we must encourage our youth to learn multiple skills and explore their innate abilities and talents, towards developing their entrepreneurial capabilities. This amounts to value creation and becomes essential in a world where orthodox jobs are becoming scarce. To remain relevant, they must not only hone their skills but also develop a mindset that there is dignity in labour thereby eschewing laziness which attaches a stigma to their person.

Love

Havilah