The Women in Business Expo took on a grand showcase as it returned for a second year at the Pegasus Hotel, Georgetown. Female-led businesses from across Guyana have been celebrated during the two-day exhibition, held over the weekend.
This year saw the participation of over 50 women in business, who gathered to
Organiser Sonia Noel joined by the oldest and youngest exhibitor and Minister Amna Ally in cutting the ribbon to open the Women in Business Expo 2017
showcase their talents and skills after weeks of preparation. The forum provided a marketing opportunity for their unique products and services (most of which were Guyanese in origin), while allowing them to network with the cadre of inspired women present at the event. Women in fashion, craft, food, homecare and events planning were some of the businesses featured in the expo this past weekend.
This business forum was the brainchild of local designer Sonia Noel through her foundation, the Sonia Noel Foundation for Creative Arts. Noel, being a woman in business, took it upon herself to extend the reach of the Foundation to young women entrepreneurs, affording them a platform to showcase their abilities. The focus of the initiative was to provide a stage for females to exhibit their products and services while networking with other women in business.
Speaking at the launch of the event on Saturday, Social Protection Minister Amna
One of the women in business displaying her merchandise at the expo
Ally pledged, on the Government’s behalf, continued support for the empowerment of women, and dedication to gender equality. Ally declared, “Research has shown that cultural and institutional barriers still exist within our society, (and those) impede women from achieving their full potential. Nevertheless, we must work to ensure that no talent, no ideas, no efforts are wasted simply because they come from a woman, rather than a man.”
The Minister applauded the effort to broaden the horizon for women-led initiatives. She highlighted that this investment in women will have a ripple effect on their families, communities, and subsequently contribute to the development of Guyana’s economy. Noel, in her feature address, expressed delight at the growth and successful execution of the exposition for yet another year, and commended the exhibitors for their bold move to participate in the promotion and expansion of their businesses. The designer also pointed out the benefits that such a forum allows, and shared her vision for the future of the Women in Business Expo. Noel indicated that she hopes this event would become a building block for the country, establishing Guyana as a model for the rest of the Caribbean. Moreover, she projected that “It must be a Caribbean Women in Business Exhibition. That is where we’re going.”Celebrating talent, promoting friendships and encouraging collaboration among women where some of the themes highlighted in the two-day event. Aside from the exhibition, an ‘Inspire You’ session was conducted to equip women with the knowledge and skills needed to ensure their businesses continue to thrive.
The expo also facilitated the introduction and exposure of numerous products to the Guyanese market.
The Women in Business Expo, launched one year ago, has joined the calendar of activities in commemoration of International Women’s Day, celebrated during the month of March.
