STEPreneur Esienakerien lauds Okowa, says she couldn't have afforded starter pack ~ Truth Reporters

By Gertrude Onyekachukwu-Uteh

ESIENAKERIEN MERCY OMA: This episode of our weekly testimony features Mercy Oma Esienakerien, one of the beneficiaries of the Delta State Government’s Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP) enrolled in the 2017/2018 Cycle. She was trained in Catering and Confectionery. Her passion for the skill remains unwavering as evident in the quality of her products and the creativity she introduces into her cakes. Mercy is the CEO of Remsco Cakes, Catering and Events located at 22 Udumovwori Street, Ekpan. Barely three years in business, her customer base has grown tremendously; she is making significant impact in the food business in Warri and its environs. She is a caterer per excellence, a baker and a STEP trainer. To her, STEP is one of the best things that happened to her. Mercy hails from Uvwie Local Government Area. Her success story:

 

 “Before now, I was unemployed and helpless as a single mother of two with ordinary level. I begged for everything I needed. All long, I had passion for catering services, but did not know how to bring my dream to reality till I met a STEP trainee who enlightened me on how to obtain a form.

 

“The rest is history as I was posted to a training centre for three months after which I was established with a bumper starter pack. I was shocked when I got to Asaba for my starter pack. Neither my parents nor I would have been able to afford it. I worked at home for two months before I rented my first shop and it has been from glory to glory.

 

“I have acquired more working equipment such as turntable, hand mixer, moulds, deep fryer pans, industrial gas cooker, pots rolling pin among others. I have expanded my shop and recently became a STEP trainer. Ten persons have trained and graduated under me. Currently, I have 2 STEP trainees and 8 private trainees in Remsco Training Centre.

 

“I earn enough money that I no longer depend on anyone for the upkeep of myself and my children. I pay my bills. My family now depends on me. The opportunities are endless. I want to use this opportunity to appreciate Dr Okowa for allowing himself to be used by God to help people like me.”