By Benjamin Njoku

Founder of Darabeauties, Iwalogboneda Abolore Omotayo, has reaffirmed her commitment to youth empowerment and skills development with the successful hosting of a free makeup training programme for aspiring beauty professionals.

The one-day event, held on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, brought together industry experts and upcoming makeup artists for an intensive session focused on practical skills, business growth, and long-term sustainability in Nigeria’s beauty industry.

Delivering the keynote address, Omolola Faleye charged participants to remain focused and intentional about their careers, emphasising the importance of purpose and continuous growth in a competitive industry.

Renowned makeup artist, Bimpe Onakoya, also led a session on strategies for long-term success and financial stability, where she highlighted the need for discipline, proper financial planning, and consistency as key factors for building a sustainable beauty business.

A major highlight of the programme was the hands-on makeup session facilitated by the convener, Omotayo, who guided participants through professional makeup techniques, stressing attention to detail and client satisfaction.

Participants also benefited from a practical gele and business session led by Sammy of Sammy Inventions, which provided insights into diversifying skills and creating additional income streams within the beauty space.

The event featured a panel of professionals including Adewumi Oluwatosin of Fabrikraft, media entrepreneur Helen Ozor, broadcaster Oluwaseun Olusegun, brand strategist Fikayo Jegede, and professional aesthetician Kareemat Agboola, among others. Discussions centred on branding, professionalism, client management, and the importance of continuous learning.

Feedback from participants reflected the impact of the training.

Moses Precious of Preshbeauty described the programme as transformative, noting that it helped her understand the importance of consistency and renewed her passion for makeup artistry. She commended the convener’s dedication, stating that the training went beyond basic instruction and offered valuable industry knowledge.

Olayemi Taiye of Tianas Glam said the experience exceeded her expectations, describing it as “mind-blowing.” She highlighted key lessons including effective communication, goal setting, persistence, and diligence in managing both clients and business operations.

Similarly, Ogunsanya Oluwakemi Adeola of Glambydeola said the training provided her with practical insights into saving for business growth, maintaining consistency, and handling clients with professionalism and respect. She added that the programme helped her gain a deeper understanding of her purpose as a makeup artist.

Speaking after the event, Omotayo said the initiative was designed to bridge the gap for talented individuals who lack access to professional training due to financial constraints.

According to her, the goal is to equip participants with both the technical skills and business knowledge required to succeed, while also encouraging professionalism and creativity within the industry.

The Darabeauties Free Makeup Training programme continues to serve as a platform for empowering young people, promoting entrepreneurship, and contributing to the development of Nigeria’s fast-growing beauty sector.