BY SAPT STAFF
BREAKING barriers in a digital era, the U.S. Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) is in Honiara conducting an informative session for women entrepreneurs.
Russell Comeau, the United States Charge d’Affaires in Honiara, proudly highlights that since its inception in 2019, AWE has trained over 16,000 women globally, focusing on unleashing economic opportunities and fostering gender equity.
Breaking away from tradition, AWE provides exclusive online sessions, allowing participants to learn and connect from anywhere in the world, absolutely free of charge. The program places a strong emphasis on creating individual business plans and networks, covering vital aspects such as sales, marketing, finance, and accounting. AWE’s innovative approach steers clear of conventional classroom training, fostering an environment conducive to growth.
At the core of AWE’s success is its hybrid model, seamlessly integrating the online DreamBuilder platform, developed in collaboration with Arizona State University’s Thunderbird School of Global Management and global copper mining company Freeport-McMoRan, with in-class/virtual mentoring. This unique blend equips participants with essential business skills while facilitating discussions with experienced mentors, local facilitators, and U.S. Exchange Alumni.
Local partnerships with NGOs, universities, and chambers of commerce add an extra layer of opportunity. Through speed mentoring, pitch competitions, and entrepreneurship fairs, participants can actively network with other business leaders, creating a dynamic ecosystem of support.
Results speak volumes. A 2021 evaluation revealed that 74 percent of AWE graduates experienced a significant increase in business earnings, with 29 percent expanding their teams. AWE goes beyond just generating income; it’s about creating jobs and contributing to local prosperity in over 100 countries.
Since its pilot in East Asia and the Pacific in 2019, AWE has reached twenty-one provinces in PNG and three Honiara-based enterprises. Over 110 women have gained essential business skills, formulated business plans, joined national and global networks, and accessed resources through the training. The current cohort is set to join a global network of 25,000 women across 100 countries, a testament to the program’s undeniable success.
Ender Rence, an AWE alumna, emphasizes the transformative nature of the training, stating, “It empowers women to run businesses without just guessing. This program helps us do things right from the beginning, making our businesses more organized.” Another alumna highlights the comprehensive coverage of products and services, describing it as invaluable for business startups. “I have really learned a lot from the training and learned to set my goals right,” she adds.
In a world where empowering women entrepreneurs is not just a necessity but a driving force for change, the U.S. Academy for Women Entrepreneurs stands out as a beacon of empowerment, fostering economic growth and gender equality in Honiara and beyond.
