Empowering Women Across the African Diaspora: She Builds the Future Festival

Introduction

In an era where women are breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings, it is crucial to recognize and celebrate their achievements in various industries. Meta executive and visionary entrepreneur, Shaïna Silva, took it upon herself to champion the cause of empowering women by creating the She Builds the Future Festival. Held in Miami from June 8 to 10, 2023, this unique event aimed to highlight the remarkable contributions of female leaders, innovators, and trailblazers who are shaping the future. With a particular focus on women across the African diaspora, Silva aimed to address the need for greater support and access to resources for women-led businesses in Africa and its diaspora.

The Rise of Women Entrepreneurs

According to the American Express State of Women-Owned Business report in 2020, Black women entrepreneurs in the United States are the fastest-growing demographic, with nearly 2.7 million businesses nationwide. This staggering growth signifies the resilience, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit of Black women in pursuing their dreams and making a significant impact on the business landscape. Similarly, in sub-Saharan Africa and the Caribbean, women-led businesses account for approximately 40% and 30% of all businesses, respectively, according to the World Bank.

Despite their impressive growth and influence in financial markets, women-led businesses in Africa and the African diaspora face significant challenges. Access to long-term funding resources and sustainable solutions that foster growth and development often elude these women entrepreneurs, hindering their ability to reach their full potential.

She Builds the Future Festival: Empowering Women

Recognizing the untapped potential of women-led businesses across Africa and the African diaspora, Shaïna Silva established the She Builds the Future Festival. This groundbreaking event served as a platform to showcase and uplift women entrepreneurs, providing them with the necessary resources, knowledge, and networks to thrive in their respective industries.

The festival encompassed a diverse range of activities, including panel discussions, workshops, networking sessions, and keynote speeches from accomplished women leaders. Participants had the opportunity to learn from industry experts, gain valuable insights, and forge meaningful connections with like-minded individuals. By fostering a supportive and collaborative environment, the festival aimed to inspire and empower women, encouraging them to pursue their passions and turn their business visions into reality.

Access to Funding and Long-Term Solutions

One of the key challenges faced by women-led businesses is the lack of access to adequate funding and financial resources. Recognizing this, the She Builds the Future Festival placed a strong emphasis on addressing this issue. Through dedicated sessions and workshops, participants had the opportunity to learn about alternative funding options, including venture capital, grants, and impact investment. Moreover, the festival facilitated connections between entrepreneurs and potential investors, creating avenues for long-term financial support.

Additionally, the festival focused on providing sustainable solutions to the unique challenges faced by women entrepreneurs. This included mentorship programs, business development resources, and access to professional networks. By equipping women with the necessary tools and support systems, the festival aimed to nurture their growth and enable them to overcome obstacles in their entrepreneurial journey.

Celebrating Success and Inspiring Change

The She Builds the Future Festival was not only a platform for empowerment but also a celebration of the achievements and resilience of women across the African diaspora. It aimed to redefine the narrative surrounding women in business, highlighting their contributions and inspiring future generations of entrepreneurs.

By shining a spotlight on these remarkable women, the festival aimed to challenge societal norms and break down barriers that hinder gender equality in entrepreneurship. The stories of success and determination shared at the festival served as a catalyst for change, inspiring women to dream big,