UCJUI: Good morning. My name is Ayoolajesu Victoria Ojo, I’m a correspondent of UCJ and I’d be conducting the interview for today. Let’s begin with introduction, can you please tell us your name, level, department, as well as your post and role in JCI?
Aishat Adeshola: Sure. My name is Amokun Aishat Adeshola, a 500L student of the department of Agricultural extension and rural development in the faculty of Agriculture. I am the Director of Growth and Retention, JCIN UI.
UCJUI: Can I know how long you’ve been in the organisation for?
Aishat Adeshola: I joined JCIN UI for the 2024 Local organization year (LO year), which means I’ve been a member for almost 2 session now.
UCJUI: Is your position as director the foremost office in JCINUI?
Aishat Adeshola: Typically, JCI has a hierarchical structure with various roles, such as:- The local organization president (LOP)- The immediate past president (IPP)- Executive Vice president Internal and Executive Vice President External (EVP)- Board of Directors – Family heads and so on.
UCJUI: Is this arranged in ascending or descending order?
Aishat Adeshola: It is arranged in descending order
UCJUI: Can you give us a brief background of JCINUI?
Aishat Adeshola: JCI offers young individuals a platform to grow and become active citizens. Members have opportunities to develop their public speaking skills through regular trainings and speaking engagements, helping them build confidence in expressing themselves. Being part of JCI also enhances your CV with real-world experience from projects and leadership roles, making you a more competitive candidate in the job market. Members are able to connect with like-minded students and influential leaders through project work and events, not only locally but also nationally and globally, opening doors to new opportunities.Through JCI, members gain valuable skills in project management, community service, and leadership. They also have access to special trainings and potentially even travel opportunities. Ultimately, JCI is about personal growth, making a positive impact, and being part of a supportive community that helps you shine.
UCJUI: Okay, there are some other organisations with similar characteristics. What makes JCIN different from them?
Aishat Adeshola: JCIN UI stands out from other organizations because of its strong focus on leadership development and empowering young people to create positive change. It also focuses on personal growth, community service and networking . Through its various projects and initiatives, JCIN UI provides members with hands-on experience and opportunities to develop valuable skills.
UCJUI: What are some of these skills? And what are some community service projects that JCIN has embarked on?
Aishat Adeshola: We have; Project management skill, problem solving skills, communication skills, public speaking skill, time management, budgeting, teamwork, event planning, marketing and so on. We had clean up project at Bodija last session and we are looking forward to another one this semester.
UCJUI: Alright, can you give us a brief history of JCIN, how , why, when, by whom , etc, it was established?
Aishat Adeshola: The Junior Chamber International (JCI) Movement was founded on October 13, 1915, in St. Louis, USA, by Henry Giessenbier Jr. He started the Young Men’s Progressive Association (YMPCA) with 32 other young men to empower them to tackle civic challenges and work towards world peace.The organization expanded its mission and became an international body in 1944, growing rapidly across the globe. From its origins as a local group, JCI has evolved into a worldwide organization focused on developing young leaders who create sustainable positive change in their communities
UCJUI: What are the criterias for gaining membership?
Aishat Adeshola: Firstly, interested members obtain the forms. After that, there’s a training (online and physical) organized for these members. Following the training, there’s an interview and exam session that tests their knowledge on JCI. Slides are also sent to them to prepare for the exams. If they pass the exam, they’ll proceed to an interview. Upon passing both the exam and interview, induction will be conducted, and they’ll become members.
UCJUI: In the link you sent, I saw that finalists are not eligible to apply. Is that the only restriction and what is the reason for it?
Aishat Adeshola: Yes that is the only restriction The rule of not allowing finalists to reapply is a strategic way to cultivate a quality membership and ensure the organization’s long-term success. This approach allows the selection process to focus on identifying new individuals who show a high potential for commitment and are ready to contribute to the organization’s future, thereby ensuring a continuous stream ofg members dedicated to making a significant impact.
UCJUI: How has this organisation impacted you, personally?
Aishat Adeshola: Being part of JCI helped me develop leadership skills, build confidence, and connect with like-minded individuals who share my passion for creating positive change. It has also helped me improve my communication skills.
UCJUI: To conclude, what should individuals look forward to when they join JCI?
Aishat Adeshola: When individuals join JCI, they can look forward to opportunities for growth and development. JCI provides opportunities to develop leadership skills, build confidence, and enhance communication Members can also connect with like-minded individuals and build a global network, which can be beneficial for personal and professional growth.Through JCI, members can make a positive impact in their communities and contribute to global citizenship. They can participate in projects that address social issues, develop valuable skills, and gain experience that can benefit their future careers. Additionally, JCI offers a range of fun and engaging events and activities, allowing members to build lasting friendships and create unforgettable experiences.
UCJUI: Thank you for your time, that will be all, or is there you’ll like to add?
Aishat Adeshola: The pleasure is mine. Thank you too, I think I said it all, except that recruitment ends on August 31st.
UCJUI: Alright then. Do have a lovely day.
Aishat Adeshola: Yes and you too.
