Women Connecting Women

Group of black women sitting together

 

The Women Connecting Women Division of The East Africa Business Network, formerly known as the East Africa Chamber of Commerce, was established in October 2015 with a clear purpose. Our division aims to inform, educate, advocate, improve skill sets, and collaborate with women in the diaspora.

Economic development is the key to uplifting emerging economies and transitioning them into the middle class. This journey is significant for the diaspora, as they face the challenge of integrating into their new communities away from home. We understand that these individuals possess a wealth of knowledge and experience that can be harnessed to exploit opportunities that may not exist in their homeland.

The women’s diaspora, in particular, plays a crucial role in their African home countries. They provide significant financial support to their communities through remittances and contribute valuable capital and knowledge for business development. Recognizing this, The East Africa Business Network created a dedicated platform that offers a space for women to connect, share experiences, seek advice, and build strong relationships.

Through our network, women can learn from one another, exchange ideas, and gain valuable insights into various industries and markets. We strive to inform our members about the latest trends and developments, equipping them with the knowledge they need to succeed. Additionally, our educational initiatives aim to improve skill sets, empowering women to excel in their chosen fields.

Advocacy is a core pillar of our division. We work tirelessly to promote gender equality, inclusivity, minorities and women’s empowerment within the business community. We aim to create a more equitable and supportive environment for women entrepreneurs and professionals by raising awareness and advocating for change.

Lastly, we understand that fostering meaningful connections and providing a sense of community is essential for personal and professional growth. Our division actively encourages networking opportunities, both online and offline, enabling women to build strong
relationships, collaborate on projects, and create lasting friendships.

At the Women Connecting Women Division, we are committed to being your friendly helper, providing a supportive and enriching environment for all women in the East African diaspora. We believe in the power of collaboration, creativity, and friendship and are excited to embark
on this journey of growth and success together.

In addition to our core mission and activities, the Women Connecting Women Division of The East Africa Business Network organizes a series of networking events throughout the year. These events have become some of our most attended and have significantly contributed to the growth of our membership, especially during our annual conference.

Women Connecting Women Networking Event

Program Components

training

Entrepreneurship Workshops

The network offers comprehensive programs that equip members with
the knowledge and skills to start and grow successful businesses. These programs cover various aspects of entrepreneurship, including business planning, marketing, financial management, and networking. 

 

Black women in a board meeting

Business Incubation

The network provides business incubation services to support members in the
early stages of their business ventures. Through this program, members receive personalized mentorship, access to shared office spaces, and networking opportunities to help them accelerate their business growth.

 

Black entrepreneur looking at budget sheets on his laptop

Access to Funding

The network assists members in accessing funding opportunities for their
business projects. They guide preparing business proposals, connecting members with potential investors, and facilitating access to grants, loans, and other financial resources.

 

lots of people talking, networking at an event.

Networking Events

The network organizes Regular networking events to foster connections and
collaboration among its members. These events provide a platform for members to interact, share experiences, and explore potential business partnerships.

 

Female mentor mentoring  her mentee

Mentorship Programs

The network facilitates mentorship programs where experienced business
professionals within and outside the diaspora community provide guidance and support to aspiring entrepreneurs. This mentorship helps members navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and learn from the experiences of successful business leaders.

 

People in a library

Knowledge Sharing and Capacity Building

The network organizes workshops, seminars, and conferences to enhance members’ knowledge and skills in specific industries or sectors. These events feature expert speakers and industry leaders who share valuable insights, trends, and best practices.

 

advocate

Advocacy and Policy Support

The network actively advocates for policies and initiatives that promote entrepreneurship and economic development in East Africa. They collaborate with government bodies, organizations, and stakeholders to create an enabling environment for business growth and innovation.

 

woman supporting her colleague at work

Access to Resources and Support

The network connects members with relevant resources, such as
business development tools, market research, and industry reports. They also provide ongoing support through online platforms, communication channels, and a dedicated team to address members’ needs and queries.

 

Women Connecting Women