PMI

Picking up from where we left off, our first visit to the chairman’s office concluded with a clear objectice: to return for a key contact on our next visit. That day was a real a test of our resolve, and our next steps would prove just how committed we were. That day, we had meeting that was met with an unexpected heavy rainfall. It could have easily discouraged us, but instead, we turned it to a kind of testament of our resolve. Despite the heavy rain, and with some members traveling from a very far distance, everyone showed up. It was a clear and powerful proof of our shared sacrifice and love for the students we aimed to serve. It wasn’t just our resolve that was tested that day—it was our mission’s ability to inspire others. During our meeting, some other corps members came by to see what was going on. As we spoke with them about our vision for empowering students, they were visibly moved. Their respect and belief in our mission was strong enough that they chose to donate an amount to the project on the spot. That show of support from our peers moved us deeply and was a clear sign that we were on the right path. With our resolves proven, we continued with the official process. We followed up with the chairman’s office, ensuring our letter was officially submitted and acknowledged by the secretary. Our persistence paid off when, through the help of the Chief of Staff, a meeting was arranged. The initial date wasn’t convenient for us, but after some reasoning, the Chief of Staff graciously agreed to a new, more suitable date. It was more than just a rescheduled meeting; it was a beautiful day where all of our preparations came to fruition. Our entire team was in attendance, ready to take the next major step. The stage was set, and we were finally ready to present our vision.

Every great initiative starts with a core group of people bold enough to believe in an idea. For the Positive Mindset Initiative (PMI), our journey began not in a formal boardroom, but with a handful of us gathered at the local government office. Our first meeting on this plan was a mix of anticipation and determination, a day without our usual Corps Development Service (CDS) routine, but full of purpose. Our first point of contact was the Local Government Inspector (LGI). When we met with her, there was a brief moment of surprise; she didn’t expect to see us turn out in such numbers. She listened intently as we shared our mission. Her feedback was both encouraging and grounded in reality. She spoke about the chairman’s efforts in the community and then with a directness we appreciated, she laid out the central challenge: funding. “That’s the main thing,” she told us, emphasizing that having the resources was the primary obstacle. She even gave us an analogy about going to the market, underscoring that our ideas, no matter how good, needed money to be realized. With her guidance and a renewed sense of purpose, we set about the essential, though hectic, task of administration. We needed a formal acknowledgment letter to present at the chairman’s office. This involved a series of back-and-forth trips to a local cafe to print the letter on the NYSC letterhead. It was a small but crucial detail that highlighted our commitment. The LGI signed the letter, entrusting us to get it acknowledged and dated, a symbolic stamp of approval on our ambition. With our letter in hand, we set off for the chairman’s official residence. We navigated our way through the building, asking for directions until we met a lady who could guide us. While we didn’t get to meet the chairman that day, we left with a clear directive: to return for a key contact on our next visit. That first day was a testament to our team’s determination. It was filled with small triumphs and minor setbacks, but every step was a vital part of the story.

With the stage set in the conference room, the true purpose of our visit began. The event kicked off with Gabriel’s (Our CDS President and Initiative Founder) passionate address. His speech was not merely an introduction; it was a comprehensive overview, highlighting the achievements of the local government chairman in various areas. He integrated a forward-thinking proposal: the potential for employment opportunities for corps members post-NYSC, demonstrating a great approach to youth empowerment. Following Gabriel’s extensive presentation, Rebecca stepped forward, adding her voice and unique perspective to our collective message. Her delivery further reinforced our objectives and aspirations, painting a clearer picture of the initiative’s potential. Then came the moment of response. The chairman, having listened intently, offered his feedback to Gabriel’s earlier points. He spoke with conviction, revealing plans to invite various organizations to engage with the local youth, hinting at empowerment programs that had previously yielded tangible benefits, including job placements and entrepreneurial gigs for some fortunate individuals. A significant highlight of the meeting was the gift presentation. Our members proudly presented a carefully prepared gift box, presented a framed token of our appreciation to the chairman. This exchange symbolized the mutual respect and the collaborative spirit we hoped to foster. The meeting concluded with a round of photographs, capturing the memorable interactions and reinforcing the positive rapport established. Beyond the formal proceedings and the captured smiles, a pivotal moment occurred: the chairman’s tangible promise of support, pledging a substantial Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N500,000) towards our cause. This commitment was a powerful affirmation of our initiative’s value and a significant boost to our efforts. As we reflected on the day, from our initial gathering to this promising conclusion, it was clear that the road ahead, while still requiring careful consideration for sustainability and scaling our work with schools, was now paved with renewed hope and vital support.

Every great initiative begins with a vision, and sometimes, a bit of an adventure. For us, the visit to the local government chairman wasn’t just another formal meeting; it was a testament to our collective drive and a significant step forward for the Positive Mindset Initiative. Our day began at the usual rendezvous point, a familiar setting for our routine CDS. There was a buzz of excitement mixed with a touch of nerves. Gabriel, our president and founder of the inititative, gathered everyone for a brief yet impactful announcement. His words weren’t just about the schedule; they were a rallying cry for support, highlighting the vital reasons behind seeking the chairman’s endorsement. This wasn’t merely a courtesy call; it was about laying the groundwork for real change. With spirits high, banners unfurled, and a few impromptu videos capturing the pre-meeting energy, we set off. Our destination: the chairman’s official residence. The journey itself felt like a prelude to something significant. Upon arrival, we found ourselves waiting downstairs, the air thick with anticipation as we awaited approval to proceed. It was a moment that underscored the formal nature of our quest, a necessary pause before stepping into the heart of decision-making. Finally, the call came. We ascended to the uppermost floor, fondly referred to by some as “our fortress”—a fitting description for the peak of our efforts. Expecting a more informal setting, we were then gracefully ushered into the conference room. This impromptu shift, for which the chairman himself offered a sincere apology, only added to the unique charm of the day. As we settled into the more formal setting, ready to present our vision, the stage was set for the impactful discussions that were about to unfold…

Your sponsorship is more than a transaction; it’s a strategic investment in the future of a generation. The Positive Mindset Initiative (PMI) is a project with a clear mission: to empower public secondary school students in Nigeria to achieve success through legal and ethical means, with a focus on hard work and discipline. We believe that every Naira of your contribution is a powerful tool for transformation. Your funds go directly towards our on-the-ground activities, ensuring that a significant portion is allocated to the heart of our mission. This includes purchasing essential educational materials like school bags, sandals, and uniforms, as well as providing financial assistance to less-privileged students. We are committed to full financial transparency. Our team meticulously tracks every expense and provides regular reports on how funds are utilized. Our sponsors receive detailed breakdowns, so you can see exactly how your support is turning into positive change. By partnering with us, you are not just funding a campaign; you are helping to build a generation of goal-oriented and responsible youth who will contribute positively to society. Your sponsorship will not only help us achieve our goals but will also remain as an impact that will outlive you and your noble organization. You may be the reason someone finds hope and pursues a brighter future.