Celebrate Women’s Entrepreneurship Day
Women’s Entrepreneurship Day (WED) is a global movement that celebrates and supports female entrepreneurs, encouraging their growth and success. Recognized annually on November 19th, this day serves as a platform to acknowledge the significant contributions of women in the business world, foster gender-inclusive entrepreneurship, and inspire the next generation of female leaders.
What is The History Of Women’s Entrepreneurship Day
Founded by Wendy Diamond in 2014, Women’s Entrepreneurship Day emerged as a response to the challenges and opportunities faced by women in the entrepreneurial space. Many women for instance experience imposter syndrome or get fewer opportunities for recognition and advancement in their businesses and careers. The initiative aims to empower women globally. Over the years, WEDO, Women’s Entrepreneurship Day Organization, has gained international recognition, with events and activities taking place in various countries to celebrate the achievements of women in business. WEDO ignites women leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs to initiate startups, drive economic expansion, and advance communities worldwide. WEDO is celebrated in 144 countries and 65 universities/ colleges internationally with the mission of empowering the 4 billion women worldwide to be catalysts for change and uplift over 250 million girls living in poverty worldwide.
Why Should Women’s Entrepreneurship Day Matter at Work
Women’s Entrepreneurship Day holds particular significance in the workplace as it draws attention to the importance of gender diversity and inclusivity in entrepreneurship. By commemorating WED at work, organizations demonstrate their commitment to fostering an environment that values and supports women’s entrepreneurial endeavors. This celebration promotes gender equality and a diversified business landscape, providing flexibility for women to work on their own terms while being available for their families.
Ideas And Activities to Celebrate Women’s Entrepreneurship Day at Work
1. Panel Discussions and Workshops:
Organize panel discussions featuring successful female entrepreneurs or conduct workshops that focus on empowering women in the workplace. Provide a platform for sharing insights, challenges, and success stories to inspire and educate employees.
2. Coaching Programs:
Establish career coaching programs where experienced female entrepreneurs and coaches mentor aspiring women. This fosters a supportive community and facilitates the exchange of knowledge and guidance. Group coaching sessions are also important to meet other women, boost their strengths and superpowers, share challenges and reduce their limitations and self-doubts. Women gain confidence and overcome impostor syndrome by seeing other women succeed at work. This can be within the company or outside the company across different industries, here is an example of group coaching.
3. Recognition and Awards:
Acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of women entrepreneurs within the company through awards or recognition ceremonies. Highlight their contributions and showcase their impact on the organization.
4. Skill-building Sessions:
Offer skill-building sessions and training programs tailored to the needs of female entrepreneurs. This could include workshops on financial literacy, leadership skills, and business development strategies.
5. Networking Events:
Facilitate networking events that bring together women in entrepreneurship, employment, and industry. Creating networking opportunities fosters collaboration and promotes community.
6. Support Women-Owned Businesses:
Encourage employees to support women-owned businesses by sourcing products and services from these enterprises. This can be incorporated into company purchasing policies and initiatives.
7. Resource Sharing:
Create a platform for women entrepreneurs to share resources, tips, and advice. This could be in the form of a dedicated intranet page, regular newsletters, or collaborative workspaces.
8. Reduce onlyness:
To break the pattern of onlyness, it’s important to avoid putting women in isolated roles. Instead, look for ways to have them work in pairs or find a supportive partner at work, whether it be another woman or someone they can talk to. Buddy programs are also helpful. This will help create a more inclusive and supportive work environment for everyone.
Observing Women’s Entrepreneurship Day at work is not just a celebration; it’s a commitment to fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in business. By implementing these ideas and activities, organizations can actively break down barriers, inspire innovation, and empower women to thrive as entrepreneurs in the ever-evolving world of business.