Heart of Gold Initiative Marks a Decade of Empowerment as 10th “Empower to Bloom” Project Unfolds in Edo State. By Raymond Enoch
The Heart of Gold Support and Care Initiative is set to deliver another powerful wave of community transformation as it prepares to host the 10th Edition of its flagship empowerment programme, “Empower to Bloom,” scheduled for Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Idumu Khala Community Square, Ebhoiyi Uromi, Edo State.
In a statement issued by the Media and Strategic Communications Unit of the Heart of Gold Support and Care Initiative, the organisation reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to expanding economic opportunities, strengthening vulnerable groups, and deepening sustainable community development across Edo State and beyond.
Powered by the Patrick Ejedawe Empowerment Foundation, the initiative continues to thrive under the visionary leadership of its founder, Chief (Mrs.) Ehiagwina Joy Patrick—Group Managing Director of the Patjeda Group, a multi-sectoral conglomerate driving impact in logistics, aviation and private security services, hospitality, agriculture, and other economic sectors. Her decade-long devotion to humanitarian empowerment has transformed the initiative into a lifeline for thousands, particularly women and vulnerable individuals striving for self-reliance.
Since inception, the Heart of Gold Support and Care Initiative has consistently championed sustainable giving—anchored on the philosophy that empowerment must go beyond temporary relief. Chief (Mrs.) Patrick’s guiding principle of “teaching people how to fish” has shaped the programme’s focus on skills transfer, start-up support, and interventions designed to create long-term socio-economic independence.
This year’s milestone edition carries the theme “Empower to Bloom,” symbolising renewed hope, dignity, and resilience for beneficiaries. Over the years, the project has recorded remarkable success in skill acquisition, workforce development, livelihood enhancement, and strengthening community structures through targeted empowerment initiatives.
The 2025 edition is projected to be one of the most impactful yet, as beneficiaries and community members converge once more to access life-changing tools and opportunities intended to help them “bloom” in their personal and economic pursuits.
Stakeholders, community leaders, media partners, and the public have been invited to join in marking this decade-long journey of compassion, transformation, and empowerment. The programme enjoys solid support from the Patjeda Group, Intercontinental Distilleries Limited, and Masters Lodge Hotel—partners committed to driving inclusive growth and sustainable humanitarian service.
