Harare, March 13, 2020- United States Ambassador Brian A. Nichols honored 96 Zimbabwean women who completed three months of business skills and entrepreneurship training under the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE). The graduates are now eligible to compete for seed money to start or grow their businesses.
Congratulating the winners, Ambassador Nichols said promoting the empowerment of women is a priority of the United States government.
“AWE is a program supporting the development of women entrepreneurs around the world,” he said. “It is designed to empower women worldwide to fulfill their economic potential, creating conditions for increased stability, security, and prosperity for all.”
Working with local partner, Act in Africa, founded by Irene Chikumbo, a YALI Mandela Washington Fellowship alumnus, the Embassy supported the training of women across three cities- Harare, Bulawayo and Mutare. The training focused on social entrepreneurship modules from the Thunderbird Business School. They explored the fundamentals of business, such as preparing business plans, obtaining capital and connecting with networks of successful businesswomen. These fundamental skills will help participants build a better future for their families and communities; and make them eligible to compete for seed money to start and grow their businesses.
Zimbabwe is one of 10 African countries chosen for the pilot phase of the academy. AWE reinforces the White House’s Women’s Global Development and Prosperity Initiative, which provides women all over the world with the necessary practical skills to create sustainable businesses.
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For additional information, please contact Information Officer Stacy Lomba at HararePress@state.gov
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