Mogadishu, (SONNA) – The U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu has launched the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) in Somalia, showcasing its commitment to supporting entrepreneurship and gender equality. AWE, a global initiative led by the U.S. Department of State, empowers women with vital entrepreneurial training, helping them to advance their businesses and contribute to their communities.
The first AWE Cohort in Somalia comprises 30 selected women entrepreneurs who will participate in a four-month Dream Builder entrepreneurship program starting in September. Somali organization iRise Hub Foundation will facilitate the program.
“These 30 women embody Somalia’s promise for the future,” according to U.S. Embassy Chargé d’AffairesShane Dixon. “Their dedication, innovation, and collaborative spirit exemplify the qualities that will propel not only their communities but also the entire nation towards a brighter tomorrow.”
AWE gives enterprising women the knowledge, networks and access they need to launch and scale successful businesses. By promoting women’s economic opportunities and ensuring that women have the capabilities and resources needed to participate in the economy, the AWE program directly supports the U.S. National Strategy on Gender Equity and Equality. At a local level, AWE harnesses the power of public-private sponsors, local partnerships and U.S. Exchange Alumni networks to help women and their businesses grow, driving localized prosperity in communities in more than 80 countries worldwide.
