Young fashion designers have been urged to make positive impact in the world of fashion design, both locally and internationally. 

 The Executive Director of the International Needs Ghana, Centre for Empowerment and Enterprise Development (CEED), Mr Cromwell Awadey gave the advice during the maiden graduation ceremony of 15 all-female graduates from the fashion expression project held in the premises of the International Needs Ghana, Adidome.

Mr Cromwell Awadey noted that there is a need for young people to take advantage of the improved policy environment for TVET in the country and also the opportunity of internet availability in their respective areas to advance their businesses.

According to him, the International Labour Organisation (ILO) has reported that the world is facing a youth employment crisis.

''The International Labour Organization has reported that the world is facing youth employment crisis. This crisis according to the ILO spares no region. You are entering the labour market at a time of significant and multiple transformations in the global economy and in technology. However, in your case, CEED has prepared you to be motivated by godly values, justice, rights and a sense of purpose. I am therefore confident that you are ready to occupy spaces that offer you the means and opportunity for meaningful participation in the businesses of your choice.

Take advantage of the improved policy environment for TVET in Ghana and the deep penetration of internet coverage in your areas to advance your businesses,'' Mr. Awadey said.

Mr. Awadey noted that exploring the power of fashion in solving socio-economic problems and needs of young women towards ensuring that there is a promotion of self-agency on sexual and reproductive health as well. 

He noted that the programme combines the leadership of UNFPA and the PRADA Group, which is a global leader in the fashion industry in promoting these ideals.

He added that the next phase of the training which is an intensive internship programme will start immediately after the graduation with fashion houses for six  months  

"It is also important to note that all the trainees routes and profit their proficiency in one test of the National Vocational Training Institute MBTI and that was just last month, so, they will be certificated and the internship programme is meant to position them to become economically independent and lead dignified lives," Mr. Awudey said.

He, however, commended them for their dedication, commitment and hard work for the past six months which were tough and challenging.

"But I must commend you for your dedication, your commitment and hard work for the past six months, you would agree with me that it was tough and intensive," he said.

He also urged them to prepare for the challenges ahead.

In a speech read on behalf of the PRADA Group by a fashion consultant with the UNFPA, Sandra Martey congratulated the ladies for their dedication and hard work toward achieving success in their areas of expertise. 

She noted that "Fashion Expressions: the story "she wears "has brought out the best in outstanding young ladies making them ready for the fashion industry. 

PRADA noted that the programme over the six months has brought enthusiasm and passion as they work to develop valuable experience and knowledge across many aspects of the fashion industry 

The PRADA Group noted that,  in addition to receiving training as multi-faceted fashion designers, they have also gained a deeper understanding of environmental consciousness and sustainable work ethics -skills that are absolutely vital for any fashion professional today. 

Country Representative,  for the UNFPA, Mr Barnabas Yisa commended the trainers and the International Needs for their continuous improvement of education through Vocational and entrepreneurial training for young women in the country. 

Mr Barnabas urged the grandaunts to be motivated by the renowned fashion designers and make a great impact on the next generations. 

The Special Guest of honor,  Faakor  Mortoo, in her speech urged the ladies to take the fashion industry to another level by improving their skills and experience and also try as much as possible to learn new things daily. 

Ms Faakor Mortoo noted that with determination they can become one of the best fashion designers in the world hence the need to be hard working and focus to achieve the desired goals. 

 International Needs Ghana is implementing fashion expressions in Ghana through its Vocational training hub, the centre for Empowerment and Enterprise Development. 

The Centre for Empowerment and Enterprise Development (CEED), formerly known as International Needs Vocational Training Centre (INVTC) is a private, technical/vocational and entrepreneurial training institute established in 1991 by International Needs Ghana (INGH), a Christian, non-governmental and development organization.

CEED has the mission and vision of empowering young people through skilled training to be economically and socially independent, secure and empowered to enable them to contribute to the development of society.

For many years International Needs Ghana has made great strides in reaching many communities in Ghana with various developmental projects, bringing hope to many individuals and families by providing skills and empowering the most vulnerable to make the most of the little they have.