Lumiscape Charity Foundation (LCF), in partnership with Zephyr Interior Design Academy (ZIDA), has concluded the inaugural LCF x ZIDA Empowerment Initiative, a month-long programme that equipped 84 single mothers with foundational interior design skills, mentorship and exposure to professional opportunities in the creative industry.
Through the Interior Design Initiative, 40 participants attend the Abuja workshop as two outstanding women receive scholarships worth ₦2.105 million
Supported by Haraya and Popit, the initiative combined three weeks of virtual classes with an in-person workshop and scholarship presentation ceremony held at Haraya in Abuja on August 15, 2026.
Following an open application and selection process, 84 women were admitted to the programme’s virtual learning cohort.
Facilitated by Zephyr Interior Design Academy, the classes introduced participants to design thinking, space planning, mood-board creation, colour theory, entrepreneurship and career pathways within the interior design industry.
At the end of the virtual training, participants completed an examination designed to assess their understanding and practical application of the subjects taught.
Based on their examination results and overall participation, the top 40 women were selected to attend the physical workshop in Abuja.
Founder of Lumiscape Charity Foundation, Ifeoma Oluwapelumi Okoro, said the initiative was created to give women, particularly single mothers, access to opportunities capable of driving lasting personal and economic transformation
She said, .“Single mothers are not a homogeneous group. They have different interests, abilities, educational backgrounds and aspirations. While some may be drawn to traditional trades, others want to explore creative and professional industries and build careers that reflect their individual talents and ambitions.
“Through this initiative, we are expanding the range of opportunities available to them and supporting each woman’s potential to thrive.
”The initiative forms part of Lumiscape Charity Foundation’s commitment to helping underserved single mothers achieve financial independence through education and skills development.
Managing Director of Zephyr Interior Design Academy, Precious Moses, described the initiative as personally significant.
.“This initiative is deeply personal to me. Design changed my life and I have seen firsthand what it can do for a woman who is given the right tools, the right guidance, and the right community.
“These 40 women did not just qualify for a program, they chose themselves, and ZIDA will honour that choice by giving them everything we have.
”Haraya served as the official venue partner for the workshop, while Popit supported the event by providing gourmet popcorn for participants”.
During the workshop, participants joined practical design sessions, mentorship conversations and collaborative activities led by industry professionals, applying their virtual learning to the practical and commercial aspects of interior design.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of two scholarships with a combined value of ₦2,105,000 to outstanding participants.
The Lumiscape Charity Foundation Scholarship was awarded to Victory Ufedo-Ojo, providing full sponsorship for ZIDA’s 15-month Full-Time Interior Design Programme.Valued at ₦1,705,000, the programme covers interior design fundamentals, technical drawing, computer-aided design software, 3D visualisation, lighting design, project management, sustainable design principles and professional business development.
Reflecting on the significance of the award, Ufedo-Ojo, one of the scholar said the initiative had given her both an opportunity and renewed confidence in her future
She said, .“I honestly do not know where to begin because my heart is so full of gratitude. I am deeply thankful to the LCF and ZIDA teams for this incredible scholarship and for believing in us, investing in our growth and creating such a beautiful platform for learning and development. I am truly honoured to be one of the scholarship recipients.
“This opportunity means so much to me, and I am excited about everything that lies ahead. Thank you, LCF. Thank you, ZIDA, for believing in us. I will remain forever grateful.
A second awardee, from the Zephyr Interior Design Academy Scholarship, who was presented to Miracle Ojogwu and valued at ₦400,000
The scholarship provides admission to ZIDA’s eight-week Interior Design Fundamentals Programme and recognises Ojogwu’s exceptional commitment, creativity and performance throughout the initiative.
Expressing her appreciation, Ojogwu pledged to make the most of the opportunity and justify the confidence placed in her.
She said, “I am truly grateful for this opportunity and deeply appreciate the organisations that made it possible. I will not disappoint them. I am committed to working hard, making them proud and using everything I learn to build a better future.”
According to Oluwapelumi in an interview with journalist, she said, ” Through education, skills development, mentorship, financial assistance and sustainable empowerment initiatives, the foundation works to break cycles of poverty, expand access to opportunity and build stronger, more resilient futures for individuals and families.
“About Zephyr Interior Design AcademyZephyr Interior Design Academy is a professional interior design institution dedicated to developing skilled, innovative and industry-ready design professionals through practical, comprehensive training programmes.
“About Lumiscape Charity FoundationLumiscape Charity Foundation is a Nigerian non-profit organisation committed to empowering underprivileged children and single mothers while extending support to vulnerable communities.” END