Women Entrepreneurs Awards 2024: A Platform for Shared Experiences & Challenges

As women entrepreneurs navigate the complex landscape of business, they often encounter various social, familial, and economic hurdles. Kirti Sheonarain, the founder of H2H Events and Digital Marketing, recognized these challenges and has launched the Women Entrepreneurs Awards (WEA), now in its second year.

In an interview with Défi Plus, she shared her motivations behind this initiative.

Women venturing into the business world frequently face obstacles, including the struggle to balance work and personal life, along with uncertainties when seeking investment.

Despite overcoming many barriers over the past two decades and making considerable progress, women continue to encounter challenges that their male counterparts often do not face as business leaders.

Kirti Sheonarain is a strong advocate for acknowledging this disparity and highlighted that the WEA serves as an essential platform for highlighting the achievements of women entrepreneurs.

Launched in 2023, the inaugural Women Entrepreneurs Awards aimed to showcase female talent through a competition specifically for women business leaders.

The awards foster a community where women can share experiences, exchange knowledge, and spotlight their contributions to the country’s economic and social development.

Regarding the selection process for the awards, Sheonarain explained that candidates undergo a comprehensive review of their business structures following the “Know Your Customer” (KYC) principle.

After submitting their applications, participants are invited to a series of workshops to prepare for the next stages.

She noted, “This preliminary selection process allows us to identify semi-finalists and ultimately finalists. Each candidate must present their journey and articulate the purpose of their company.”

The WEA also involved a distinguished jury and recognized industry leaders who assess the candidates based on set criteria.

Sheonarain emphasized the invaluable support from “WEA ambassadors,” who are experts in their fields.

They are mentoring the participants, providing guidance, and helping promote the initiative.

She remarked, “These two editions of the WEA would not have been possible without the backing of sponsors who offer financial support, open their businesses for collaboration, and sponsor workshops focused on preparation and training.”

While the challenges of entrepreneurship persisted regardless of gender, Kirti Sheonarain insists that the path is particularly arduous for women.

“Creating a product or service idea is just the beginning; the real challenge lies in structuring that idea for success,” she explained.

She added that women often face additional hurdles, such as securing loans and balancing family responsibilities alongside social obligations.

“Women must contend with stereotypes while staying focused on their goals,” Sheonarain concluded.

Through the Women Entrepreneurs Awards, Kirti Sheonarain aims to create a supportive environment that not only acknowledges the successes of women in business but also encourages them to overcome the unique challenges they face in their entrepreneurial journeys.

Source: Defi Media