Meet Oluwasola Mercy. During her YOE Internship, she worked with the AIG-Imoukhuede Foundation in an IT role, an experience that sparked a powerful shift from self-doubt to confidence.
Mercy first learned about the Youth of Enterprise (YOE) Internship Programme through a WhatsApp group where job opportunities are shared. Taking a chance on the YOE opportunity became the start of a truly transformative career journey.
We asked Oluwasola about her YOE experience, and she had this to say:
“My YOE internship experience kicked off with a 3-week training that laid the foundation for everything that followed. One of my favourite parts of the programme was the mock interview. My interviewer gave honest, supportive feedback that boosted my confidence. I used to get nervous, but after that session, I felt prepared and self-assured.
After training, I was placed in an IT role at AIG-Imoukhuede Foundation. I learned directly from experienced professionals, setting up networks, managing Microsoft 365, handling admin responsibilities, and working with the tools we use every day. As someone naturally shy and introverted, the programme helped me break out of my shell. I speak up more during presentations and team discussions now.
A major highlight was being selected for Power Apps training a rather expensive training, but free through the YOE internship at AIG-Imoukhuede Foundation. I’m still learning and growing every day. YOE opened my eyes to what’s possible, and I’m genuinely grateful.”
1) What challenges did you face during the programme, and how did it impact your growth?
Working in teams, especially with difficult personalities, was tough at first. Communication gaps and uneven effort were frustrating, and I didn’t want to create tension. A YOE Masterclass on managing workplace relationships changed that. I learned to stay professional, set boundaries, and communicate clearly without sounding rude or emotional. Since then, I’ve become more patient and intentional. I focus on outcomes while maintaining a healthy team environment. That experience built my emotional intelligence, conflict-management skills, and ability to work well with different personalities.”
2) What role has the YOE programme played in your professional success and accomplishments?
YOE played a very big role in my journey. Before joining, I applied for many jobs. I often passed the exams, but offers never came, and I started doubting myself. YOE gave me a chance. The placement in IT became the starting point of my career. Today, I’m an IT Analyst, moving forward with confidence. The self-doubt is gone.
Along the way I learned to manage Microsoft 365 and Admin Center, use remote desktop tools like HelpDesk, create and manage QR codes for asset tagging, build applications with Power Apps and Power Automate, and set up networks in real work environments. YOE didn’t just give me a job; it gave me a fresh start and a platform to grow. An opportunity to learn from the best while being supported as a starter, indeed a green-start to my career.
3) What level of mentorship and support did you receive from colleagues and leaders in your organization?
The support was encouraging from day one. Colleagues were open and willing to guide me and when I made mistakes, they corrected me with patience and gave room for growth.
My team leads didn’t just assign tasks; they explained the why behind them. That helped me see the bigger picture and not just tick boxes. Any time I felt unsure, someone was available to advise or walk me through. That kind of environment gave me the confidence to try, learn, and improve. It shaped how I view mentorship not just as correction, but real support.”
4) What word of advice do you have for applicants and current interns?
Give it your best. One of my favourite quotes is, ‘What is worth doing at all is worth doing well.’ Take every task seriously, no matter how small. Be present, ask questions, and don’t treat anything as unimportant. The masterclasses, assignments even the challenging moments add up. No knowledge is ever a waste. Stay focused, stay curious, and make the most of every opportunity. It’s all worth it.
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