Academy for Women Entrepreneurs 'AWE DRC'

Discover our Leadership Training at Harvard University! AWE DRC is thrilled to have offered this incredible opportunity for women entrepreneurs in the DRC to develop their leadership skills, gain valuable insights, and connect with a network of inspiring leaders. Learn more about the program and stay tuned for future opportunities: https://lnkd.in/dQjD9Z-N U.S Embassy, Kinshasa #ExchangeAlumni - Alumni Affairs - State Dept. Groupe Utalii Kwetu "GUK" ' #AWEInspires #FemmesEntrepreneures #AWEDRC #HarvardUniversity , #DRC, #BatirLAvenir

Day 6 Recap: Key Themes and Discussions Session 1: Networking The day began with a casual networking session among participants, providing an opportunity to connect and exchange ideas. Session 2: Leaders' Roundtable During the leaders' roundtable, participants discussed the critical challenges and opportunities facing Africa. Key themes included the need for unity, strategic planning, and strong human capital. The discussion also explored the importance of building open partnerships with other nations while addressing existing conditions and overcoming the legacy of colonial division. Session 3: The Power of Soft Power In this session, participants focused on the role of the arts, film, fashion, and Afrobeats in shaping Africa's global image and driving economic growth. The challenges of protecting intellectual property and ensuring fair compensation for African artists were also discussed. Additionally, participants explored the potential of AI to both threaten and enhance the creative sector. Session 4: Artificial Intelligence in Africa Experts from various fields gathered to discuss the growing role of AI technologies in Africa. The panel highlighted the potential of AI to address critical challenges in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, and finance, while also discussing the cultural and social implications of AI adoption. Session 5: Regulating Africa's Markets The final session focused on the challenges of regulating the digital economy in Africa. Participants discussed the complexities of cross-border transactions, consumer protection, and digital inclusion. The importance of developing comprehensive regulatory frameworks that promote both economic growth and social justice was emphasized. Overall, the final day of our top AWE DRC participants at Harvard University provided valuable insights into the critical issues facing Africa and the opportunities for a brighter future. It was concluded by an evening Gala animated by Africa’s Iconic Artist YEMI ALADE aka Mama Afrika. #ExchangeProgramsAtState U.S Embassy, Kinshasa #ExchangeAlumni, #DRC, #BatirLAvenir #AWEDRC

Day 5: Awe-Inspiring Insights and Global Connections A Warm Welcome and Introduction The day began with a warm welcome from Professor Ruth Okediji, followed by an introduction to Professor Ada Order, a distinguished academic from South Africa with a wealth of experience in the field. Professor Order provided a comprehensive overview of the rationale behind the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Session 1: Navigating the AfCFTA Moderated by Professor Ada Order, the first session delved into the intricacies of doing business in Africa post-AfCFTA. Professor Order emphasized the historical significance of African integration and the transformative potential of the AfCFTA in fostering economic growth and prosperity. Session 2: Ministerial Meetings Participants had the opportunity to engage in insightful discussions with key DRC ministers: the Minister of Trade, Minister of Higher Education, and Minister of Communication. During the meeting participants were encourage to leverage the renewed AGOA partnership between the DRC and the US, and its potential to bootstrap their ventures. Ministers vowed to support those entrepreneurs once back in DRC Session 3: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs The luncheon with the Honorable Enoh T. Ebong, Director of the US Trade and Development Agency, highlighted the gender gap in digital entrepreneurship and the Agency's commitment to supporting women-led businesses. Keynote Address: A Vision for Africa The day culminated with a powerful keynote address by H.E. Sahle-Work Zewde, former and first female President of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. President Zewde emphasized the importance of women's empowerment, education, and unity in shaping a prosperous future for Africa. Founders Banquet The evening gala honored alumni pioneers and top AWE DRC entrepreneurs for their contributions to the advancement of African studies at Harvard. The keynote speech by Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka further celebrated the achievements of the African continent. Conclusion Day 5 was a day filled with inspiring insights, valuable connections, and a renewed commitment to the economic development and empowerment of Africa. The participants left Harvard with a deeper understanding of the AfCFTA, strengthened partnerships, and a renewed sense of hope for the continent's future.

Day 4: AWE DRC at Harvard Business School Our AWE DRC top participants had an incredible day at Harvard Business School, learning from inspiring leaders and professors and meeting high level profiles as they attended a pre Africa Alive lecture. We were honored to hear from Ms. Kendra Plummer, the visionary founder of Elise Capital. Kendra's journey from housekeeper to hotel owner is a testament to the power of knowledge, opportunity, risk, and growth. Her story resonated deeply with our participants, inspiring them to pursue their own entrepreneurial dreams. We also delved into the complexities of investor-state arbitration and the challenges facing the AfCFTA. Professor Won Kidane provided valuable insights into these critical topics, helping our entrepreneurs understand the legal and economic landscape. We also had a lively conversation with Harvard Kennedy School students Kofi Bempong and Winnie Kaaria, discussing their experiences as africans at the Harvard Kennedy School. Finally, we concluded the day with a screening of the inspiring biopic "Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti." This powerful film showcased the life and legacy of a remarkable African feminist activist, offering valuable lessons for our participants on courage, resilience, and social justice. U.S. Department of State U.S Embassy, Kinshasa #ExchangeAlumni, #DRC, #BatirLAvenir #AWEDRC #Harvard #Entrepreneurship #Africa #Leadership #Inspiration #FunmilayoRansomeKuti

Our third day at Harvard was filled with inspiring discussions and valuable insights. We had the opportunity to engage with Ms. Nicola Williams, a successful female entrepreneur based in Cambridge. She shared her journey and commitment to sustainability. Professor John Brown led a thought-provoking session on the spiritual lives of leaders, exploring the role of faith in the workplace. Professor Peter Blair discussed the future of work and the impact of culture on entrepreneurship, providing valuable insights for our participants. Finally, Professor Andy Wu emphasized the importance of growth, planning, and resilience in the entrepreneurial journey. The day ended with a networking session with the major female entrepreneurs of Cambridge. These experiences have been invaluable for our AWE DRC participants. Stay tuned for more highlights from our Harvard visit! U.S. Department of State U.S Embassy, Kinshasa; #ExchangeAlumni, #AWEDRC, #BatirLAvenir 

Day 2: Mastering the Business of Entrepreneurship Our AWE DRC participants delved deeper into the world of entrepreneurship on Day2. Professor Ebehi Iyoha from Harvard Business School provided invaluable insights on financial metrics, cash flow, and the importance of understanding financial markets. They were also honored to have a conversation with Professor John D. Macomber, who shared his expertise on various researches he has made on issues related to funding businesses in an African context. The day concluded with a visit to the Harvard Innovation Hub and Rock Center for Entrepreneurship, where our participants explored opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and funding. These two hubs offer a wealth of resources to support entrepreneurs in their growth journeys. U.S Embassy, Kinshasa #HarvardBusinessSchool #Entrepreneurship #AWEDRC #FemaleLeaders #Innovation

A Recap of Day 1 (Monday 07 October 2024): A Powerful Start to Our Harvard Journey Our AWE DRC participants kicked off their Harvard adventure with a tour of the renowned Harvard Law School, gaining insights into its rich history and academic excellence. We were warmly welcomed by Professor Ruth Okediji, Faculty Director of the Law School and Harvard University Center for African Studies, who shared inspiring stories of Harvard's past and its commitment to global impact. We delved into the world of entrepreneurship in Africa with Professor Jacob Olupona, discussing the significant contributions of women entrepreneurs and the challenges they face on the continent. Professor Amy Kao provided invaluable guidance on legal assistance for entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of seeking expert advice as businesses grow. Mr. Naharel Louis, a Harvard alumnus, shared his entrepreneurial journey and the power of storytelling in building a successful business. And Mrs. Kristin Pope emphasized the crucial role of storytelling in connecting with audiences and inspiring action. We concluded the day with a welcoming dinner, connecting with Harvard staff and local entrepreneurs. Stay tuned for more updates on our exciting journey! #HarvardLawSchool #EntrepreneurshipInAfrica #AWE DRC #FemaleLeaders #Innovation

Behind the Scenes: Our Entrepreneurs' Journey to Harvard. Watch their inspiring journey and follow us on X, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube for more updates. From DRC to the US. Boston Harvard University. #AWEDRC Cohort 1 Embarks on a New Adventure...

☺️Nous sommes ravis d'annoncer que nos meilleurs entrepreneurs de la cohorte 1 de l’Académie des Femmes Entrepreneurs AWE RDC  s'envolent pour les États-Unis !    🇺🇸 ✈️ Ces femmes extraordinaires recevront une formation de classe mondiale à l'Université Harvard et exploreront les possibilités de collecte de fonds supplémentaires. Nous avons hâte de voir ce qu'elles vont devenir dans les années à venir ! Aidez-nous à les souhaiter un bon voyage et un immense succès. #AWEDRC #GroupeUtaliiKwetu  #DRC #WomenInBusiness #GlobalImpact

🎉 Célébrons notre succès ! 🎈 La période de candidature pour la Cohorte 2 d'AWE DRC s'est terminée avec un soutien extraordinaire ! Nous avons reçu plus de 6000 utilisateurs uniques et accueilli plus de 20 000 visiteurs sur notre site web. Merci à toutes les femmes incroyables qui ont postulé et exploré des opportunités avec nous à Kinshasa, Goma, Bukavu, Kisangani et Lubumbashi. Votre passion alimente notre mission d'autonomiser les femmes entrepreneures. Nous avons été impressionnés par la qualité des candidatures reçues et sommes ravis de voir l'intérêt croissant pour notre programme. Restez à l'écoute alors que nous examinons les candidatures et nous préparons à annoncer les prochaines étapes. Ensemble, nous construisons un avenir prometteur pour l'entrepreneuriat en RDC !   #AWEInspires #FemmesEntrepreneures #Réussite #Kinshasa #Goma #Bukavu #Kisangani #Lubumbashi #AWEDRC #GroupUtaliiKwetu