Before joining Empower Her Ability, Jane Okeoghene Akpaeva had only recently started her mental health and coaching business. Although passionate about her work, she assumed she already had sufficient business knowledge until the project exposed her to deeper entrepreneurship skills and market realities.
As a Blind entrepreneur offering mental health and mediation services, Jane also faced market barriers. Many potential clients did not fully understand or value mental health services, making customer acquisition and trust-building difficult.
Through Empower Her Ability, Jane received entrepreneurship training and mentorship support that helped her strengthen her business plan, understand market strategy, improve customer acquisition, and position her services more intentionally.
Today, Jane reports stronger self-esteem, increased confidence engaging clients, and better financial and business management practices. She now understands herself as more than just a business owner, but as an entrepreneur building a purposeful service.
The project also helped her identify target audiences more clearly and strengthened trust-building strategies with potential clients.
Although market awareness remains a challenge, Jane remains committed to expanding access to mental health support through outreach and awareness activities.
Her story demonstrates how entrepreneurship support can strengthen niche businesses while also building confidence and resilience.
Quote:
“Don’t give up. It may be difficult, but it is not impossible.”
