BY JOY OFASIA
Ten local women entrepreneurs who graduated from the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs program in 2024 recently met with U.S. Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, and Solomon Islands, Anna Marie Yatishock, at the U.S. Embassy in Honiara.
Also present was the newly appointed Chargé d’Affaires and Deputy Chief of Mission for Solomon Islands, Dan O’Hara.
The one-hour meeting gave the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) alumni a chance to share updates on their businesses and how the U.S.-sponsored program has helped them grow. The women spoke about forming new partnerships, improving their financial records management, increasing sales, and even importing products — all achievements made possible after graduating from AWE.
The entrepreneurs also talked about how they are continuing to lead in their communities and support the 2024 AWE program in Solomon Islands.
Dr. Donna Wate, AWE Coordinator for Solomon Islands, said the meeting was a valuable experience for the women.
“The women had the chance to share their business stories and some of the impacts after graduating from the U.S.-sponsored AWE program,” Dr. Wate said. “It was also a learning experience — to network with high-level officials and present their dreams clearly and effectively in a short time.”
The AWE program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and supported by the White House-led Women’s Global Development and Prosperity Initiative. It aims to empower women with the knowledge and tools needed to start and grow sustainable businesses.
Ambassador Yatishock and Mr. O’Hara praised the women for their achievements and encouraged them to keep moving forward.
“This program is about empowering women to become leaders in business and in their communities,” said Ambassador Yatishock. “And these women are doing just that.”
