Female entrepreneurs gathered at the Business Women Connect (BWC) 2024 last Saturday to learn digital and financial skills to grow their businesses. Themed “Thrive: Navigating Economic Uncertainty and Building Resilience in Business,” the forum provided a transformative platform for learning, networking, and empowerment, uniting vendors, industry leaders, and participants seeking growth strategies in a challenging economic environment.
The Business Women Connect event, which held on November 23 in Lagos, was designed to equip female entrepreneurs with the skills, knowledge, and connections needed to excel in uncertain economic times.
Oluwatosin Wilkey-Awobiyi, a renowned women empowerment coach and the convener of BWC, delivered an inspiring opening address on building resilience in business. She encouraged attendees to embrace the sessions as opportunities to learn practical strategies that could elevate their ventures. She emphasised the importance of networking and absorbing the insights shared by experts, which could be the key to taking businesses to the next level.
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Business Women Connect: Insights into investment opportunities and funding
Olumayowa Bolujoko, Strategic Client Advisor at Afrinvest, presented valuable insights on investment opportunities within the stock market. He highlighted the significance of letting money work for entrepreneurs, advising them to not only consume brands’ products and services but to also consider investing in these brands’ shares for long-term financial growth.
Vera Ihenacho, Head of Agribusiness Strategy at Sterling Bank, provided practical advice on accessing funding and grants. She stressed the importance of maintaining proper business records and having a solid business plan in place to improve the chances of securing loans or grants. With her guidance, participants gained a clearer understanding of how to navigate the funding process and make their businesses more attractive to potential investors and financial institutions.
Maximising digital tools and social media for business success
Derinsola Shonibare, a digital sales and marketing expert, also shared her expertise on leveraging social media for business growth. She emphasised understanding the entertainment-first nature of social platforms and the importance of building a consistent and strong digital presence. By strategically positioning brands online, businesses can increase engagement and expand their reach.
Ibukun Bankole, media consultant and Head of Content at Techpression Media, also took the stage to discuss how entrepreneurs can leverage digital tools to drive business growth. She highlighted various tools and resources that could help businesses improve operations and expand their market reach, stressing the importance of staying ahead in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
In a lively session, popular Nigerian actress and influencer, known for her role as ‘Miss Pepeye’ in Papa Ajasco series, shared strategies for staying resilient amidst Nigeria’s economic challenges. She advised attendees to focus on innovation, adaptability, and staying true to their vision, even in the face of adversity.
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Another highlight of the event was the vibrant trade fair, offering massive discounts on foodstuffs and household products, as well as opportunities to connect with financial service providers, job recruiters, grant facilitators, and mental health experts. The trade fair allowed participants to explore partnerships and resources that could further their business goals.
Business Women Connect 2024 organised by Women in Business Initiative, a subsidiary of OWA Foundation, proved to be a transformative platform for female entrepreneurs. It provided them with the tools and networks needed to navigate economic uncertainties, embrace digital opportunities, and secure funding for sustainable growth. The event underscored the critical role of community, resilience, and innovation in advancing female entrepreneurship in Nigeria, leaving attendees inspired and equipped to thrive in today’s dynamic business landscape.
