Dr. Mrs. Virginia Ironbar, the Wife of the Chief of Staff to the Governor of Cross River State and Acting Director of the Pre-Degree Program at the University of Calabar, delivered an inspiring keynote lecture at the 2024 Cross River Student Entrepreneurship, Employability, and Mentorship Summit (CR-SEEMS).
Her lecture focused on the transformative power of soft skills, positive mentorship, and volunteering in preparing young individuals for success in the 21st century.
Speaking to an audience of students, budding entrepreneurs, and professionals, Dr. Ironbar emphasised the indispensability of soft skills such as effective communication, teamwork, and adaptability. “In today’s competitive world,” she stated, “technical expertise alone is insufficient.
Soft skills are the bridge that connects knowledge to meaningful outcomes in the workplace and beyond.”
She underscored the value of mentorship as a catalyst for personal and professional growth, encouraging participants to seek out mentors who provide guidance, constructive feedback, and inspiration.
“Positive mentorship,” she noted, “unlocks hidden potential, aligns aspirations with actionable goals, and accelerates progress.”
Dr. Ironbar also highlighted the benefits of volunteering as a pathway to gaining hands-on experience, improving efficiency, and building expertise. She encouraged attendees to embrace entrepreneurship by identifying and solving real-world problems, emphasising self-awareness in career choices. Drawing from the wisdom of Socrates, she advised, “Man, know thyself,” urging participants to pursue careers aligned with their strengths and passions.
Quoting Thomas Carlyle, she remarked, “An unplanned life is like a ship without a rudder,” urging participants to set clear goals and take charge of their futures with purpose and direction.
The summit, which attracted industry leaders and policymakers, provided a vibrant platform for networking, collaboration, and capacity-building. Attendees praised Dr. Ironbar’s practical insights, leaving with renewed commitment to personal development and entrepreneurial excellence.
CR-SEEMS 2024 highlighted the importance of holistic approaches to employability and entrepreneurship. Dr. Ironbar’s passionate advocacy for soft skills, mentorship, and volunteering resonated as a call to action for the next generation to rise with competence and confidence.
