Chamber president backs international initiative promoting female entrepreneurs

Nasir Awan (pictured) is supporting a major trade mission in which six African nations and four Asian counties will combine to promote female entrepreneurs.

The president of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) will be among the speakers in Manchester on 10-11 February.

Delegates will include representatives of 50 women-led businesses from 10 countries – Bangladesh, Kenya, Rwanda, Mozambique, Nepal, Mongolia, Pakistan, Ghana, Nigeria and Zimbabwe - and five sectors.

The event is organised by SheTrades Commonwealth, funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and the International Trade Centre (ITC).

SheTrade aims to increase economic growth and job creation in Commonwealth countries by increasing the participation of women-owned business in international trade.

The organiser say that globally women entrepreneurs face compounded challenges to export compared to their male counterparts, such as being less connected to networks of buyers and sellers and accessing key market.

The trade mission at Manchester’s Elliot House in Deansgate aims to bolster efforts to promote UK imports, particularly through building market linkages with developing countries.

This enables UK importing companies to diversify suppliers, champion gender-inclusive supply chains and increase their competitiveness in the UK markets.

Nasir, who will speak during the opening session on the Monday, said: “Empowering women, elevating trade – members are able to join us for this transformative mission where six African nations and four Asian countries unite to support female entrepreneurs.

“The event will showcase products that uphold ethical standards and drive sustainable growth for a brighter, inclusive future.”

The wide-ranging programme will include a focus on fresh and processed agrifood, textiles and apparel, handicrafts, IT and BPO, and beauty sectors.

Find out more information and register for the event.