Thirty-five female entrepreneurs in Bulawayo recently had the opportunity to enhance their business and entrepreneurial skills through the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) program, organized by the United States Embassy.
Launched in 2019, AWE aims to empower women by providing them with the knowledge, networks, and access to opportunities necessary to establish or expand successful businesses.
During the graduation ceremony held at the National Gallery in Bulawayo, Rebecca Archer-Knepper, the US Embassy’s public diplomacy officer, encouraged the participants to seek solutions that would enhance Zimbabwe’s competitiveness in the global market.
“Zimbabwe is rich in both human and natural resources, presenting numerous opportunities. You are identifying challenges and developing solutions, collaborating to make Zimbabwe a more appealing place for global business. Your efforts are vital in helping the economy work for everyone,” she stated.
Archer-Knepper emphasized the US commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs in broadening access to opportunities and fostering economic growth. She urged the entrepreneurs to embrace this mission.
“You are demonstrating to rural communities, women, and young girls what is achievable for women in Zimbabwe. As you progress, remember that the business community in Zimbabwe needs your creativity, leadership, and vision,” she urged.
Thubelihle Ndlovu, AWE 2024 program manager and director of Purse on Point, highlighted that the support provided to these entrepreneurs would significantly contribute to the economic development of both the city and the nation.
“These entrepreneurs are in capable hands, as AWE plays a crucial role in building their future and strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Bulawayo, which is essential for overall entrepreneurship,” Ndlovu remarked.
The program has created a network of women who are equipped to enter the market, trained to start, grow, scale, and formalize their businesses, contributing to the economic advancement of the city and the country.
In 2024, the AWE program in Zimbabwe received nearly 1,000 applications, from which only 105 women were selected after a rigorous selection process. Ndlovu noted that these participants will contribute significantly to the academy’s mission.
“Over 75% of women in the AWE program go on to formalize and monetize their business ideas, with more than 30% hiring additional staff, and 90% reporting increased earnings,” she added.
Additionally, four of the 35 women were awarded cash prizes of $1,000 each for their outstanding pitch presentations: Sibhekinkosi Sigola of Alvaro, Elizabeth Chimuti of Feisty Seed, Martinagema Moyo of Chirundu Holdings, and Faith Mutete of WIM Zimbabwe.
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