The Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) of the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa, Fiona Evans, has officially opened the ‘Providing Opportunities for Women’s Economic Rise (POWER) Pitch Showcase,’ featuring six women in business.
Following an open and competitive selection process, six businesses were chosen for the POWER Pitch Showcase and pitched their ideas: FreelanSira, Jemla Online, Kabana Leather, Green Ethiopia, Beki Farms, and JRS. During her opening remarks, DCM Evans said, “For some of the businesses tonight, the owners are ready to take on external investment. For others, they are looking for new customers, new markets, or new business plan advice. The U.S. private sector, represented tonight by American Chamber of Commerce Board President Daryl Wilson and AmCham board members in the audience, leads the world in innovation and holds the answers to many of their questions.”
She also encouraged the event attendees to show their support by meeting the entrepreneurs, asking follow-up questions, or offering words of advice or encouragement.
The U.S. Embassy is working on initiatives that leverage diplomatic resources to promote women in business and to encourage the private sector to establish professional networks and business environments focused on promoting women’s economic empowerment.
