The Port Harcourt tech hub, PH Tech Expo, has unveiled 100 certified virtual assistant experts who are ready to work remotely from anywhere in the world. The virtual assistants were selected and trained for eight weeks at the Ignite VA Institute, led by Mmeyene Victory Opara-Eze, the founder and team lead. The training program, which was sponsored by PH Tech Expo, aimed to equip the participants with the necessary skills to operate as virtual assistants globally.

According to Mmeyene Victory Opara-Eze, the virtual assistants were trained in various tools, communication, and discipline to make them global-client-ready. The goal of the program was to provide the participants with the skills needed to generate income. Opara-Eze emphasized that virtual assistance is a necessary skill due to its accessibility and growing demand worldwide. She noted that becoming a virtual assistant requires little capital, just consistency, skills, and a laptop.

The Port Harcourt tech hub aims to showcase its talent and provide access and structure for its residents. Opara-Eze stated that the city has talent, but what is missing is the access and structure. She emphasized that the Ignite VA Institute is world-class and can produce world-class individuals from Port Harcourt. The graduates of the program now have options to freelance, join agencies, or build their own businesses from the comfort of their homes.

The graduates of the program have gained not only technical skills but also soft skills such as time management, communication, and attention to detail. Opara-Eze expressed her impression of the learners, stating that they are ready for the global market. She noted that the top six graduating students were exceptional, and it's not just their technical skills that make them stand out, but also their character.

The Port Harcourt Tech Expo played a significant role in sponsoring the program, making it free for the scholars. Opara-Eze expressed gratitude to the expo for providing the opportunity. The next line of action for the beneficiaries is to secure job placements, earn income, and grow in their careers. Opara-Eze emphasized that graduation is just the starting line and that the institute will continue to provide support to the graduates.

Opara-Eze advised young people to learn digital skills that are in demand globally. She emphasized that location is no longer a barrier to success and that consistency and effort can lead to achieving one's goals. The institute plans to continue providing training programs, including advanced courses for the graduates. The program has already made an impact, with some graduates securing remote work opportunities.

The CEO of Tech Nexus, Nimi Solomon, stated that their organization aimed to give back to society by supporting volunteers through training and development. The Port Harcourt Tech Expo plans to continue partnering with the Ignite VA Institute to provide more opportunities for young people. The institute has a community of graduates and provides job opportunities, mentorship, and support to its members.

Key points

  • The Port Harcourt tech hub has released 100 certified virtual assistant experts ready to work remotely worldwide.
  • The virtual assistants were trained in various tools, communication, and discipline to make them global-client-ready.
  • The program aims to provide young people with skills that are in demand globally, particularly in remote work.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.