Commonwealth Business Women’s Network Seminar Promoting Women Entrepreneurs: Sharing best Practice Dr Banjoko- AfricaRecruit 12th November 2004

Background The ingenious entrepreneurial spirit of women is underdeveloped which if tapped into can act as tool in alleviating poverty and empowering women particular in the developing world- need to recognise the macro and micro role and the potential impact if harnessed Formal Informal

leverage relationships Lobbying and advocating enabling and supportive policies and legislation To profile and affirm women in business leadership positions in both the public and private sectors Choice of Business Information gaps Male generated policies Access to business resources e.g. information and opportunities Culture/gender discrimination Perceptions and beliefs Stereotypes Family responsibilities- dual positions Trust- soft vs hard Approach Passive vs Active Need to address the balance - the tide is turning Men Challenges Women Solutions

More Solutions Access to technology Support base enable women in business to become more effective and profitable Capacity building- improving managerial and technical skills Improve access to tenders, small business loans Access to credit Create role models for other women in businesses - mentorship Career choice Recognition to institutions that support women in business promote co-operation Promote publics and private sector support to SMMEs owned and or led by women

My Experience No overnight success………….but over the months.years Started by default not planned but circumstantial Lack of preparation- not confident Hard nose – cut throat- opportunistic Go and seek rather than be sought rejection There is a price to pay……..sacrificial Many mistakes including wasted opportunities Focused and single minded Many special advisors

My Experience- 2 Not all leads are fruitful but all leads must be followed SWOT analysis on yourself – SWOT analysis of the business- what needs to be leveraged, resourced Being a woman does have its advantages & dis Slave labour- humility Misconceptions……….has the money arrived Bold and courageous to step out Inner strength

Lessons learnt- and still learning Stand Firm and remain firm Leverages Lear to say NO Beware of others agenda and objectives Focused Always stay in touch with the market