Full Breakdown
Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: Initiatives and Challenges in Global Markets
9/10/2025, 1:39:13 PM
Foundry for HER Bootcamp Launches in Nigeria
The Aurora Tech Award, in collaboration with The Nest Innovation Technology Park, has introduced the Foundry for HER Bootcamp, a three-day virtual accelerator aimed at early-stage women-led tech startups in Nigeria. Scheduled for October 15 to 17, 2025, the bootcamp will provide training for 120 female founders in essential areas such as pitching, fundraising, and scaling beyond local markets. Isabella Ghassemi-Smith, head of the Aurora Tech Award, emphasized the initiative's goal of equipping women entrepreneurs with the necessary tools and networks to compete globally. Despite Nigeria's vibrant startup ecosystem, female founders often encounter significant barriers to capital and visibility.
When trade works, entrepreneurs win: Making global growth possible for small businessesGlobal Family Office Investment Summit in Cannes
Simultaneously, the French Riviera will host the 27th Global Family Office Investment Summit (GFOIS) from October 30 to November 1, 2025. This event will gather over 250 influential investors and entrepreneurs to discuss emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and blockchain. The summit aims to foster transformative partnerships and promote female leadership in finance and technology through a dedicated breakfast session. Anthony Ritossa, founder of the summit, highlighted Cannes as an ideal venue for impactful discussions that could shape the future of global capital.
The Impact of Global Trade on Small Businesses
Yana Smahlo, a Ukrainian entrepreneur, exemplifies the resilience required in today's global market. After fleeing Kyiv, she rebuilt her women's fashion brand, Nenya, which supports Ukrainian manufacturers and employs refugees. However, recent trade policy changes have significantly impacted her wholesale business, prompting her to adapt her global strategy. Smahlo's experience underscores the necessity for small businesses to navigate complex market dynamics and maintain international partnerships to thrive.
Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurial Skills Development
In Lagos, the Rose of Sharon Foundation's Youth Empowerment Programme (YEP) 2025 focused on equipping young people with essential skills for the digital economy. Speakers emphasized the importance of aligning personal values with business practices to create sustainable ventures. Dr. Senukon Ajose-Harrison identified key skills such as communication, creativity, and technology literacy as vital for success in today's market. The program encouraged participants to leverage digital platforms for global outreach and income diversification.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite these initiatives, challenges remain for women entrepreneurs and small businesses. Critics argue that while programs like the Foundry for HER Bootcamp and YEP provide valuable resources, systemic barriers such as access to funding and market visibility persist. Additionally, the volatility of global trade policies continues to pose risks for entrepreneurs like Smahlo, who must constantly adapt to shifting market conditions.
Official Statements & Responses
Isabella Ghassemi-Smith stated, “At Aurora Tech Award, we focus on one thing: giving the world’s boldest women founders the fast track to scale.” Meanwhile, Anthony Ritossa remarked, “This Summit represents a group of investors and entrepreneurs with a set of common beliefs,” highlighting the collaborative spirit of the GFOIS.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Head of the Aurora Tech Award, Isabella Ghassemi-Smith, said: “At Aurora Tech Award, we focus on one thing: giving the world’s boldest women founders the fast track to scale.” — Isabella Ghassemi-Smith, Head of Aurora Tech Award
- “Cannes is the perfect setting for bold discussions and transformative partnerships that will define the next era of global capital,” — Anthony Ritossa, Founder, Family Office Summit
- “This is how I fight, by keeping people employed, keeping them hopeful.” — Yana Smahlo, Founder of Nenya
- “She stressed that true impact comes from meeting needs, building legacies, and creating value that outlives profit.” — Oloruntosin Taiwo, RoSF Coordinator
These initiatives reflect a growing recognition of the need to empower women entrepreneurs and adapt to the complexities of global markets, yet the path forward remains fraught with challenges.
