The Luminary Project has begun the year with its first capacity-building session, convening leaders of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and social enterprises for a focused programme on compliance, financial integrity and leadership.

Held on Saturday, the session brought together organisations working across social impact sectors to strengthen the governance and operational foundations required for long-term sustainability. Organisers noted that while many NGOs deliver meaningful impact at community level, gaps in compliance and financial systems often limit their ability to scale, attract funding or build institutional trust.

Strengthening the Foundations of Impact

The opening session addressed critical issues including regulatory compliance, transparent financial management and leadership accountability. These themes were framed as essential not only for meeting legal and donor requirements, but also for safeguarding organisational credibility and ensuring responsible stewardship of resources.

The training was delivered by Edward Fagbohun and Vera Emesiobum, who led interactive sessions combining practical guidance with real-world examples drawn from the nonprofit and social enterprise ecosystem. Participants were encouraged to view compliance and financial integrity as strategic assets that enable growth, rather than administrative burdens.

Supporting Organisations Beyond Funding

The Luminary Project is designed to go beyond traditional grant-making by offering a holistic support model. Selected organisations receive funding, targeted training and increased visibility, enabling them to strengthen both internal systems and external engagement.

Organisers emphasised that the initiative aims to level the playing field for smaller or under-resourced organisations that may lack access to professional advisory services, despite delivering significant social value. By equipping these organisations with leadership and operational tools, the project seeks to enhance impact and resilience across the sector.

Call for Nominations

As part of its outreach, the Luminary Project has opened nominations for NGOs and social enterprises undertaking meaningful work and in need of support. Nominated organisations will be assessed for inclusion in future cohorts, with successful applicants gaining access to the programme’s resources at no cost.

Members of the public, partners and sector stakeholders are encouraged to nominate organisations that demonstrate strong mission alignment but may benefit from strengthened governance, financial systems or leadership development.

Looking Ahead

Organisers described the opening session as setting the tone for the year, with additional workshops and engagements planned to address other critical challenges faced by mission-driven organisations. The project’s emphasis on integrity, accountability and leadership reflects a broader commitment to building a more effective and trustworthy social impact ecosystem.

By investing in the people and systems behind social change, the Luminary Project aims to ensure that organisations doing vital work are equipped not only to survive, but to thrive.

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