Extending similar initiatives, LADIESFUND, trailblazed by T U Dawood, recently enabled 40 women SMEs to network and sell their products. Half of them showcased their products and services on stage as they also took to their social media handles to go live to a global audience. The event was graced by the likes of Moneeza Butt, Mehreen Humza Tabani, Varah Mussavir, Khursheed Hyder, Sana Pirzada and Zoreed Raza, among many others.
The PowWow, reflecting the power of women, went a step further as a cohort of esteemed mentors were selected to present their mentees to the audience. The event was immensely enlightening as it highlighted the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs, and emphasized the potential for further empowerment and support. By establishing their ventures, it was heartening to see Pakistani women entrepreneurs challenge traditional gender roles, inspire future generations, and pave the way for gender equity in entrepreneurship.
It is a small wonder that LADIESFUND allows for bringing forth unique perspectives and experiences to the Pakistani corporate ecosystem, fostering diversity and driving innovation. Their entrepreneurial ventures focused on addressing unmet needs, capitalizing on uncharted opportunities, creating socially conscious businesses, and promoting sustainable practices. Furthermore, ventures such as LADIESFUND enabling these women must be applauded as it encourages diverse leadership teams, including women entrepreneurs, ensuring better financial performance. Empowering women to become entrepreneurs not only benefits individuals but also stimulates economic growth, enhances competitiveness, and contributes to overall social progress, the purpose that TU Dawood wants to serve by and large, as a creative businesswoman with great professional acumen.
It is imperative to note that despite significant progress, women entrepreneurs still face distinct challenges that hinder their entrepreneurial journey. Gender biases, limited access to capital and resources, a lack of networks and mentorship opportunities, and work-life balance concerns are among the common hurdles women encounter. And this is what PowWow aims to overcome. As a woman, I understand these barriers can impede the growth and success of their ventures, limiting their potential impact. Recognizing and addressing these challenges is crucial for creating an enabling environment where women entrepreneurs can thrive.
Let’s take this opportunity to support and empower women entrepreneurs, as TU Dawood ensures concerted efforts are made by various stakeholders, including governments, businesses, organizations, and communities. Her efforts are focused on providing equitable access to capital, fostering networks and mentorship programs, offering tailored business education and training, and advocating for policies that promote gender equity in entrepreneurship. Furthermore, breaking down societal stereotypes and biases, encouraging diversity and inclusion, and raising awareness about the achievements and potential of women entrepreneurs are key to building a supportive ecosystem at LADIESFUND.
Women entrepreneurship represents an immense opportunity for economic growth, innovation, and social progress. By encouraging and supporting women to start and grow their businesses, we unlock a wealth of talent, creativity, and untapped potential, something that is much needed in a country riddled with economic distress and social disorders. By doing so, we can collectively build a brighter future where women entrepreneurs play a leading role in shaping a more equitable and prosperous society.
Entrepreneurship is a powerful vehicle for women. By starting and leading their own businesses successfully, navigating through challenges, and merging as bright stars, women gain financial independence, decision-making authority, and a platform to voice their ideas. This empowerment has a ripple effect, positively impacting their families, communities, and future generations. Women entrepreneurs often serve as role models, inspiring other women and girls to pursue their dreams and explore entrepreneurial opportunities. We hope that this will further the cause TU Dawood hopes to achieve.