A Growth Engine for Europe

Segun Abodunrin, from Nigeria’s bustling city of Lagos, was unemployed when a friend told him about Google’s Digital Skills for Africa courses taking place in his home city. Attending the workshops turned out to be one of the biggest turning points in his life. As well as gaining key knowledge and insights about online campaigns and tools, which he supplemented with training resources on YouTube, Segun felt invigorated by the whole learning experience. “Meeting so many people with so much energy and passion to learn gave me so much confidence and hope that things could get better, if more people could learn digital skills,” he says. Determined to use the opportunity to help others in Nigeria embrace the digital revolution, Segun decided to set up his own digital agency, Tway Media.

Since its launch, Tway Media has helped over 5,000 small businesses in Nigeria attract online customers. Segun has also been able to offer employment opportunities to young people from Lagos, including Tomisin Adekoya, a single mother who was unemployed and facing eviction. “She needed something to get her started. By providing her with employment, Tomisin was able to go out there and get a roof over her head,” says Segun. “She has now become an integral part of the Tway Media team, and has the means to fully support her daughter.” “Starting a business is the best decision I’ve ever made,” says Segun. “The ability to provide employment for so many young people is very fulfilling.”