The OSCE Office of the Coordinator for Economic and Environmental Activities (OCEEA) held a closing event and awards ceremony in Almaty, Kazakhstan on April 18 to celebrate the successful conclusion of the Central Asia Women Entrepreneurship Program. The event highlighted the achievements of 20 women entrepreneurs from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, and underlined the OSCE’s dedication to promoting women’s economic empowerment and inclusive growth across Central Asia.
Launched in February 2024, the program aimed to empower women-led businesses in Central Asia through digital upskilling. Over seven weeks, 21 female entrepreneurs from different backgrounds will participate in a series of workshops, practical sessions and individual mentoring, covering key areas such as digital transformation, online marketing and business management strategies. covered.
Women entrepreneurs learn how to develop and grow their businesses using the Business Canvas model, use digital tools to build an online presence and establish a clear brand identity, and master digital financial tools for effective business management. gained insight.
Vera Strobachova-Badowei, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Economic Governance/OCEEA, said: “Through this journey, the women entrepreneurs not only gained new knowledge and skills, but also built a dynamic network and forged lasting connections and friendships with other women entrepreneurs across the region. Our willingness to share our experiences, support each other and collaborate, this idea speaks volumes about the strength and solidarity of women in business.” This program forms part of the OSCE’s broader commitment to gender equality, economic empowerment and inclusive growth in the region.
One of the key features of the program was its student-led approach, with 30% of the program time devoted to small group teaching sessions with more than 20 experts. Elaine Young, Director of InkubasiaLAB, an NGO specializing in innovative digital training programs and the program’s implementation partner, said: “This individualized focus ensured that our students received customized instruction and felt supported throughout their entrepreneurial journey. In the long term, the joint program between OSCE and InkubasiaLAB It is our hope that the connections and relationships that our students have built during their careers will continue to be a source of learning and support for them. ”
The dedication and hard work of the participants was recognized at the closing ceremony and awards ceremony, culminating in the presentation of digital awards to commemorate the successful completion of the program and further support their entrepreneurial journey. The event also provided an opportunity for participants to reflect on their accomplishments, share success stories, and network with fellow entrepreneurs, mentors, and experts.
Central Asia Women Entrepreneurship Development Program was implemented within the framework of a cross-regional project Promote good governance and a positive business environment in the OSCE region through digitalization and the use of open datais funded by the United States and Poland.
