Quarterly Publication of AWEP Nigeria

editorial team

Welcome Speech

Empowering Nigerian Women EntrepreneursAfrican Women Entrepreneurship Program

EmpowerEmpower

ORA ATAGUBA RONKE AINASCOTTHYELNI HASSAN

It is my distinct pleasure to welcome you warmly to the African Women's Entrepreneurship Programme website. This is our world, a world comprised of intelligent,beautiful,hardworking,risk-taking,creative and focused women, who are breaking barriers and limits in various industries thereby contributing to the vibrancy of the Nigerian economy.

The aim of African Women's Entrepreneurship Programme(AWEP) Nigeria chapter, is to develop, promote,and create economic opportunities for women Entrepreneurs in Nigeria. It is a non- profit making Organization ,non- partisan,with no Trade union and religious affiliations.

Our motto is : Empowering Nigerian Women Entrepreneurs.

We are in the six geo-political zones of Nigeria and are active in many States . We encourage you to join us if you are a credible woman entrepreneur or aspiring to be one.Entrepreneurship is the key to economic progress of a nation and Women Entrepreneurs drive economic growth . Remember , it all starts with an idea, join us to expand your ideas. Whatever you do,make it count by joining the African Women's Entrepreneurship Programme.Don't walk alone,build a story,be persistent and together let's change our world.As Steve Jobs once said, " The ones who are crazy enough to think that they can change the

world are the ones who do."I welcome you once again and look forward to seeing you soon.Warm RegardsAngela AjalaNational President.

African Women’s Entrepreneurship Program (AWEP) is an outreach, education, and engagement initiative that targets African women entrepreneurs to promote business growth, increase trade both regionally and to U.S. markets through the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), create better business environments, and empower African women entrepreneurs to become voices of change in their communities.

The African Women Entrepreneurship Programme (AWEP) is sponsored by the United States Department of State (DOS) to help more women entrepreneurs participate in international markets and take advantage of the benefits of AGOA.

AWEP brings together business women from AGOA - eligible countries to the united states for trade and advocacy related training and to attend the AGOA forum.

AWEP provides attendees with opportunity to meet and network with the U.S. policy makers, companies and industry associations, U.S. and African aid society, non-profit organization advocating for women's economic opportunities, multilateral development organization and business alliances.

Launched in 2010 July at the 2010 United States Sub-Sahara Africa trade and Economic Cooperation Forum (AGOA Forum) by the Department Of State (DOS) Economic, Energy and Business Bureau and Coordinated through the DOS international USA for leadership program.

Who We Are lobally, women make up 50 percent of the global population, 40 percent of the Gglobal workforce, yet only own about 1

percent of the world’s wealth. Given the opportunity, women invest the majority of their income into their families and communities, but unfortunately most women experience unnecessary barriers that limit their ability to fully participate in the economy.

In Africa, women are the backbone of communities and the continent’s greatest potential to unlocking economic growth as they provide the majority of labor with the least amount of resources. Reductions in the gender gap in education, health, political participation, and economic inclusion will result in an increase in the continent’s economic competitiveness.

Through the African Women’s Entrepreneurship Program (AWEP), the U.S. Department of State seeks to dismantle the obstacles to business opportunities and economic participation that African women face. Launched in July 2010, the initiative identifies and builds networks of women entrepreneurs across sub-Saharan Africa poised to transform their societies by owning, running, and operating small and medium businesses, and by becoming voices for social advocacy in their communities.

Supporting economic growth in sub-Saharan Africa is a policy priority for the United States. The AWEP initiative further advances the Secretary’s Policy Guidance on Promoting Gender Equality through economic and civic participation in sub-Saharan Africa. Finally, AWEP directly supports two of the four pillars in the Presidential Policy Directive on U.S. strategy toward sub-Saharan Africa by ;

1. Spurring economic growth and trade through incorporating women into the economic sector and

2. Promoting opportunity and development throughout the continent for women and youth.

Purpose African Women Entrepreneurship Program “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” ...“If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself.”

Mission

African Women’s Entrepreneurship Program (AWEP) is an outreach, education, and engagement initiative that targets African women entrepreneurs to promote business growth, increase trade both regionally and to U.S. markets through the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), create better business environments, and empower African women entrepreneurs to become voices of change in their communities.

Meet AWEP New Executive Members

African Women Entrepreneurship Program

Bukki AdeshinaTreasurer

African Women’s Entrepreneurship Program (AWEP) is an outreach, education, and engagement initiative that targets African women entrepreneurs to promote business growth, increase trade both regionally and to U.S. markets through the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), create better business environments, and empower African women entrepreneurs to become voices of change in their communities.

The African Women Entrepreneurship Programme (AWEP) is sponsored by the United States Department of State (DOS) to help more women entrepreneurs participate in international markets and take advantage of the benefits of AGOA.

AWEP brings together business women from AGOA - eligible countries to the united states for trade and advocacy related training and to attend the AGOA forum.

AWEP provides attendees with opportunity to meet and network with the U.S. policy makers, companies and industry associations, U.S. and African aid society, non-profit organization advocating for women's economic opportunities, multilateral development organization and business alliances.

Launched in 2010 July at the 2010 United States Sub-Sahara Africa trade and Economic Cooperation Forum (AGOA Forum) by the Department Of State (DOS) Economic, Energy and Business Bureau and Coordinated through the DOS international USA for leadership program.

Who We Are lobally, women make up 50 percent of the global population, 40 percent of the Gglobal workforce, yet only own about 1

percent of the world’s wealth. Given the opportunity, women invest the majority of their income into their families and communities, but unfortunately most women experience unnecessary barriers that limit their ability to fully participate in the economy.

In Africa, women are the backbone of communities and the continent’s greatest potential to unlocking economic growth as they provide the majority of labor with the least amount of resources. Reductions in the gender gap in education, health, political participation, and economic inclusion will result in an increase in the continent’s economic competitiveness.

Through the African Women’s Entrepreneurship Program (AWEP), the U.S. Department of State seeks to dismantle the obstacles to business opportunities and economic participation that African women face. Launched in July 2010, the initiative identifies and builds networks of women entrepreneurs across sub-Saharan Africa poised to transform their societies by owning, running, and operating small and medium businesses, and by becoming voices for social advocacy in their communities.

Supporting economic growth in sub-Saharan Africa is a policy priority for the United States. The AWEP initiative further advances the Secretary’s Policy Guidance on Promoting Gender Equality through economic and civic participation in sub-Saharan Africa. Finally, AWEP directly supports two of the four pillars in the Presidential Policy Directive on U.S. strategy toward sub-Saharan Africa by ;

1. Spurring economic growth and trade through incorporating women into the economic sector and

2. Promoting opportunity and development throughout the continent for women and youth.

Purpose African Women Entrepreneurship Program “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” ...“If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself.”

Mission

African Women’s Entrepreneurship Program (AWEP) is an outreach, education, and engagement initiative that targets African women entrepreneurs to promote business growth, increase trade both regionally and to U.S. markets through the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), create better business environments, and empower African women entrepreneurs to become voices of change in their communities.

Meet AWEP New Executive Members

African Women Entrepreneurship Program

Bukki AdeshinaTreasurer

NEWS

AWEP partners with Nigerrian American Chamber of Commerce(NACC) through an MOU signed in March 2018 . A partnership has been birthed between the two organizations with both parties recognizing the mutual interest in establishing cooperation/partnership agreements which allow them to achieve the objectives of their establishments.

NACC is is a leading business organization serving businesses and its members by providing programs and services that improve economic prosperity and sustainability of businesses are committed to constantly creating value for our members to ensure return on their investment.

AWEP partners with Nigerian American Chamber of Commerce(NACC)

NATIONAL CLUSTERSThe AWEP National Clusters have been set up, these will drive rapid growth through a deliberate and strategic process. By building capacity through an amalgamation of interests where the focus will be on creating structures that will encourage and engender mergers, businesses can fuse to become bigger entities . By working together in clusters groups of women can easily fit into criteria s to obtain bank loans and other services provided by the various agencies and support groups .

The clusters will be headed by :

Services - Ekaette Umoh

Emilia Csaszar

Food Processing – Amede Achingale

Body/Hair & Skin - Ngozi Nwogwu

Fashion / Apparel - Maureen Obaweya

Agriculture - Mrs Adeshina

Light Manufacturing/Decor – Ora Ataguba

Nile University hosted a delegation, led by Angela Ajala (National President), from the African Women’s Entrepreneurship Program (AWEP) on March 23, 2018. The visit was aimed at building a partnership between AWEP and Nile University in areas like staff training, education, and so on.The collaboration would enable both institutions to more easily and effectively achieve their shared goals of women empowerment, qualitative education, etc.

The event was a huge success and Nile University looks forward to a fruitful relationship with AWEP.

VISIT TO THE NILE UNIVERSITY

BUSINESS TOUR

AFRICANDO AfrICANDO Trade and Investment Conference took place at the Africa Trade Development Centre Miami sept 2017The discuss centered around US-Africa Trade, Supply Chain Developmentand Competitiveness Under AGOA, and How to Make AGOA Work for SME's in the Handicraft, Beverage, Ethnic Food and Spice Industries.Also addressed was the constraints and barriers that exist inidentifying export markets for unique handicraft product lines, and ethnicfood markets in the Hemisphere; how African nations can utilize Miami'sstrategic location and proximity to Africa to expand U.S. - Africa tradeand investment and encourage the establishment of long-term tradepartnerships and business linkages between Africa and the Americas, and expansion between these two markets. The event also featured a tradeshow for SMEs in the handicraft, ethnic food and spice industries. Africando's overriding objective is to develop strategies to: Leverage access to markets in the Western Hemisphere to supportU.S. - Africa trade, and; Stimulate trade, and investment between the U.S. and Africa usingprivate sector participation and Florida as the nexus for tradeexpansion between these two markets.

NEWS

AWEP partners with Nigerrian American Chamber of Commerce(NACC) through an MOU signed in March 2018 . A partnership has been birthed between the two organizations with both parties recognizing the mutual interest in establishing cooperation/partnership agreements which allow them to achieve the objectives of their establishments.

NACC is is a leading business organization serving businesses and its members by providing programs and services that improve economic prosperity and sustainability of businesses are committed to constantly creating value for our members to ensure return on their investment.

AWEP partners with Nigerian American Chamber of Commerce(NACC)

NATIONAL CLUSTERSThe AWEP National Clusters have been set up, these will drive rapid growth through a deliberate and strategic process. By building capacity through an amalgamation of interests where the focus will be on creating structures that will encourage and engender mergers, businesses can fuse to become bigger entities . By working together in clusters groups of women can easily fit into criteria s to obtain bank loans and other services provided by the various agencies and support groups .

The clusters will be headed by :

Services - Ekaette Umoh

Emilia Csaszar

Food Processing – Amede Achingale

Body/Hair & Skin - Ngozi Nwogwu

Fashion / Apparel - Maureen Obaweya

Agriculture - Mrs Adeshina

Light Manufacturing/Decor – Ora Ataguba

Nile University hosted a delegation, led by Angela Ajala (National President), from the African Women’s Entrepreneurship Program (AWEP) on March 23, 2018. The visit was aimed at building a partnership between AWEP and Nile University in areas like staff training, education, and so on.The collaboration would enable both institutions to more easily and effectively achieve their shared goals of women empowerment, qualitative education, etc.

The event was a huge success and Nile University looks forward to a fruitful relationship with AWEP.

VISIT TO THE NILE UNIVERSITY

BUSINESS TOUR

AFRICANDO AfrICANDO Trade and Investment Conference took place at the Africa Trade Development Centre Miami sept 2017The discuss centered around US-Africa Trade, Supply Chain Developmentand Competitiveness Under AGOA, and How to Make AGOA Work for SME's in the Handicraft, Beverage, Ethnic Food and Spice Industries.Also addressed was the constraints and barriers that exist inidentifying export markets for unique handicraft product lines, and ethnicfood markets in the Hemisphere; how African nations can utilize Miami'sstrategic location and proximity to Africa to expand U.S. - Africa tradeand investment and encourage the establishment of long-term tradepartnerships and business linkages between Africa and the Americas, and expansion between these two markets. The event also featured a tradeshow for SMEs in the handicraft, ethnic food and spice industries. Africando's overriding objective is to develop strategies to: Leverage access to markets in the Western Hemisphere to supportU.S. - Africa trade, and; Stimulate trade, and investment between the U.S. and Africa usingprivate sector participation and Florida as the nexus for tradeexpansion between these two markets.

VISIT TO US EMBASSY

EMBASSY VISIT

VISIT TO EMBASSY TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

BUSINESS TOUR

Visit to Santa Fe & Albuquerque, New Mexico

the International Folk Art Market (IFAM)

The Santa Fe folk art market was attended by Ora Naomi AtagubaRonke Aina ScottDr Mary PaningaAisha BakariEsta AyedeSamirah SalehRaheela Bashir UmarAmina Mujtaba Khaleel and was sponsored by Walter Smith petroman LTD The Mission of the International Folk Art Market is to create economic opportunities for and with folk artists worldwide who celebrate and preserve folk art traditions. The International Folk Art Market envisions a world that values the dignity and humanity of the handmade, honors timeless cultural traditions, and supports the work of folk artists serving as entrepreneurs and catalysts for positive social change.Our first port of call was a visit to CASA NOVA, Casa Nova collaborates with corporative with whom it works in design,product development and marketing striving to assist with innovation while respecting the rich and diverse traditionalcultures and techniques.And our last port of call was to Cael Chappell, owner of baskets of Africa seller of high quality, hand woven African baskets and is a strongbeliever in promoting the works of weavers most of whom are women as this he says contributes toward theireconomic development and stability. This 7 day event was a great learning experience.

Courtesy visit to the acting Ambassador Trinidad & Tobago, Mr Lamese to share the Awep road map and vision for 2018 as a way of partnering and collaborating in bilateral trade and several other events.The Trade and Investment convention which comes up in July was discussed and will be attended by 15 Awep companies ; At this meeting was our National President, Gen Sec West Africa and the VP North East

AWEP started the year on a high note with a courtesy visit to the US Embassy in Abuja. On ground to receive the delegate which was led by the AWEP National President, Mrs Angela Ajala were top officials of the Embassy. The visit afforded us an opportunity to share the Roadmap of the Group for the year with the Embassy Officials.

VISIT TO US EMBASSY

EMBASSY VISIT

VISIT TO EMBASSY TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

BUSINESS TOUR

Visit to Santa Fe & Albuquerque, New Mexico

the International Folk Art Market (IFAM)

The Santa Fe folk art market was attended by Ora Naomi AtagubaRonke Aina ScottDr Mary PaningaAisha BakariEsta AyedeSamirah SalehRaheela Bashir UmarAmina Mujtaba Khaleel and was sponsored by Walter Smith petroman LTD The Mission of the International Folk Art Market is to create economic opportunities for and with folk artists worldwide who celebrate and preserve folk art traditions. The International Folk Art Market envisions a world that values the dignity and humanity of the handmade, honors timeless cultural traditions, and supports the work of folk artists serving as entrepreneurs and catalysts for positive social change.Our first port of call was a visit to CASA NOVA, Casa Nova collaborates with corporative with whom it works in design,product development and marketing striving to assist with innovation while respecting the rich and diverse traditionalcultures and techniques.And our last port of call was to Cael Chappell, owner of baskets of Africa seller of high quality, hand woven African baskets and is a strongbeliever in promoting the works of weavers most of whom are women as this he says contributes toward theireconomic development and stability. This 7 day event was a great learning experience.

Courtesy visit to the acting Ambassador Trinidad & Tobago, Mr Lamese to share the Awep road map and vision for 2018 as a way of partnering and collaborating in bilateral trade and several other events.The Trade and Investment convention which comes up in July was discussed and will be attended by 15 Awep companies ; At this meeting was our National President, Gen Sec West Africa and the VP North East

AWEP started the year on a high note with a courtesy visit to the US Embassy in Abuja. On ground to receive the delegate which was led by the AWEP National President, Mrs Angela Ajala were top officials of the Embassy. The visit afforded us an opportunity to share the Roadmap of the Group for the year with the Embassy Officials.

IWD CELEBRATIONS

PHOTOGRAPHS from THE SIMPLY NIGERIAN

FAIR 2017

PHOT0SPEAK

Awep pays courtesy call to Sterling Bank...Shares roadmap and introduces New Executives

Courtesy Visit To Mrs Achilam Chioma Fidel, Assistant Director, IDD Industrial Development Department) Ministry of Investment Trade & Industry. Abuja(

Celebrations takes place at Abeokuta

The African Woman in today's global environment. Hosted by Gen Olusegun Obasanjo at the Presidential Library

Otta, this was a landmark event to celebrate the IWD by the African Hub Lagos with the former US Ambassador to Nigeria, Amb Robin Sanders

It was with much gusto that she engaged and encouraged the women to greater heights of achievements and also adviced that each put on their thinking caps and be pioneers of desruption in their industry as she put it , if you are not internet compliant in the next 5 years you are out .

Our National President Mrs Angela Ajala presented a paper citing the challenges that enterprenures currently face on their journey to the export market but also said that with perseverance and dedication we could succeed with AGOA.

The book signing, the tour's and the various engagements were novel set in the back drop of the gorgeous Presidential Library, all in all it was a beautiful experience

IWD CELEBRATIONS

PHOTOGRAPHS from THE SIMPLY NIGERIAN

FAIR 2017

PHOT0SPEAK

Awep pays courtesy call to Sterling Bank...Shares roadmap and introduces New Executives

Courtesy Visit To Mrs Achilam Chioma Fidel, Assistant Director, IDD Industrial Development Department) Ministry of Investment Trade & Industry. Abuja(

Celebrations takes place at Abeokuta

The African Woman in today's global environment. Hosted by Gen Olusegun Obasanjo at the Presidential Library

Otta, this was a landmark event to celebrate the IWD by the African Hub Lagos with the former US Ambassador to Nigeria, Amb Robin Sanders

It was with much gusto that she engaged and encouraged the women to greater heights of achievements and also adviced that each put on their thinking caps and be pioneers of desruption in their industry as she put it , if you are not internet compliant in the next 5 years you are out .

Our National President Mrs Angela Ajala presented a paper citing the challenges that enterprenures currently face on their journey to the export market but also said that with perseverance and dedication we could succeed with AGOA.

The book signing, the tour's and the various engagements were novel set in the back drop of the gorgeous Presidential Library, all in all it was a beautiful experience

AGM 2017

he AGM 2017 turned out to be a well packed event both Twith facilitators and

attendants.The AGM also had a mini exhibition of mainly member's products and we must say that was a busy street. We kicked off with a welcome speech by the then incumbent president after which we quickly dived into sessions of talks and panel discussions. With us that day were awesome speakers such as Grow Crop online, Plethora, Brandzone, Kunbi Wuraola and Jimi Banjo. They spoke and gave quite engaging talks leaving our participants with yearnings for more. Time was not our friend but each person took home valuable nuggets to keep them going for a while. The Finance sector was not left out as Sterling Bank and Nigerian Police Microfinance bank also spoke on funding and investment possibilities for attendants. We had representation from the office of the first Lady, Lagos State , Ministry of Women's Affairs, the US Embassy, NACC, RMRDCThe old executives of AWEP stepped down to admit the new executives who were voted in that day for the 2018/19 term.

AGM 2017

AGM 2017AGM 2017

AGM 2017

he AGM 2017 turned out to be a well packed event both Twith facilitators and

attendants.The AGM also had a mini exhibition of mainly member's products and we must say that was a busy street. We kicked off with a welcome speech by the then incumbent president after which we quickly dived into sessions of talks and panel discussions. With us that day were awesome speakers such as Grow Crop online, Plethora, Brandzone, Kunbi Wuraola and Jimi Banjo. They spoke and gave quite engaging talks leaving our participants with yearnings for more. Time was not our friend but each person took home valuable nuggets to keep them going for a while. The Finance sector was not left out as Sterling Bank and Nigerian Police Microfinance bank also spoke on funding and investment possibilities for attendants. We had representation from the office of the first Lady, Lagos State , Ministry of Women's Affairs, the US Embassy, NACC, RMRDCThe old executives of AWEP stepped down to admit the new executives who were voted in that day for the 2018/19 term.

AGM 2017

AGM 2017AGM 2017

BUSINESS TOUR

AGOA LOME

INTERNATIONAL WOMENS DAY

BONDINGTHROUGH AWEP

hen AWEP Southwest celebrated the IWD 2017 with Charlotte Salford who is the Managing Director of WGrowthCap - an organization which supports young

entrepreneurs and start-ups and empowers women in business. Also to mark the day was Ambassador Marcus Bello, Awep Trustee and Vivien Ani of high net resources. It was an Art Exhibition held at the W & Co Gallery by 3 artists after which a percentage of the sales made on that day was given to an entrepreneur of choice. It was an evening of fun

Togo and United States of America co-hosted the 16th AGOA Forum on August 8-10, 2017 under the theme : ‘The US and Africa: Partnering for Prosperity through Trade”. The important event brought together nearly 1000 delegates from Africa and the US and it was acclaimed the best AGOA forum organized so far.

The take away from this trip is to learn how to network effectively to your advantage. it was a marvel to see the group in action....from A and Shine to Larclux to BOSH, Atunnise Clothiers to the fashion cluster Head, Eyiyemi (EoNL), pushing and striking deals with boldness with Nigerian officers that you can only catch in such places and then women in Ethiopia inviting them and want to start regional trade. it was simply amazing.When you exhibit boldness and step out of your comfort zone and meet our top officials in foreign lands, they tend to accord you some sort of respect....and it is called “ Saluting Courage”

BUSINESS TOUR

AGOA LOME

INTERNATIONAL WOMENS DAY

BONDINGTHROUGH AWEP

hen AWEP Southwest celebrated the IWD 2017 with Charlotte Salford who is the Managing Director of WGrowthCap - an organization which supports young

entrepreneurs and start-ups and empowers women in business. Also to mark the day was Ambassador Marcus Bello, Awep Trustee and Vivien Ani of high net resources. It was an Art Exhibition held at the W & Co Gallery by 3 artists after which a percentage of the sales made on that day was given to an entrepreneur of choice. It was an evening of fun

Togo and United States of America co-hosted the 16th AGOA Forum on August 8-10, 2017 under the theme : ‘The US and Africa: Partnering for Prosperity through Trade”. The important event brought together nearly 1000 delegates from Africa and the US and it was acclaimed the best AGOA forum organized so far.

The take away from this trip is to learn how to network effectively to your advantage. it was a marvel to see the group in action....from A and Shine to Larclux to BOSH, Atunnise Clothiers to the fashion cluster Head, Eyiyemi (EoNL), pushing and striking deals with boldness with Nigerian officers that you can only catch in such places and then women in Ethiopia inviting them and want to start regional trade. it was simply amazing.When you exhibit boldness and step out of your comfort zone and meet our top officials in foreign lands, they tend to accord you some sort of respect....and it is called “ Saluting Courage”

AGM 2017

DAY BEFORE OUR AGM @ THE PITCH SEMI FINALS

AGM 2017

SOUTH WEST ZONAL MEETINGThe South West Ist Quarter Zonal Meeting, Workshop and Exhibitions

On Saturday 24th March the SW Zone had their first quarterly meet and it was a very good outing...

The workshop topics covered:

- Business Registration, trade marks and intellectual property

- Digital Marketing

- Export Readiness

Some of the comments from membership include;

Ify AWEP: Congratulations on a wonderful job. Other events will be even better.

Helen Oduyemi Osun:

All of us from Awep Oyo, was touched by the hospitality and trainings full of deep exposure,

We really experienced Awep. We say Thank you all.

Bose Olachi: A wonderful meeting and great seminars kudos to the SW president and her team. Congratulations

Bola- Bosh Fashions: Very meaningful workshop and meetup! Food was on point to ...welldone VP and exco members ......to all that came in from outside Lagos. We wish you a safe trip back!

ne of the Highlights of the last thAGM held on the 15 of November O2017 National Pitch Contest

which attracted submissions of pitches from various business women in AWEP vying for prize monies of N500,000 for

stthe Winner, N250,000 for the 1 runner ndup and N100,000 for the 2 runner –up,

kindly donated by Sterling Bank Nig. Plc. What made this even more exciting and competitive was the presentations made by the shortlisted candidates on the eve of the AGM. The bustling voices, nervous participants and excited audience was one to remember. Our Presentation Panel which consisted of our able consultant Mrs Aderoba, The out-going President Mrs. Zainab Jaji, Mrs Fsan-Robert and the Pitch Coordinator Ms Oluyemisi Ogundipe. We must not forget the crucial role of the time keeper Ms Nonye Umehi who kept time for the presenters during their presentations. The presentations were of varying styles and abilities but 3 winners emerged and they were 1. Clarks Pharmaceutical Company Ltd (Ngozi Ndu-Nwagu)2. Wimiza Investments (Esther Gindirin)3. ZeeEight12 (Ms Funmi Suleman & Tokunbo Olawunmi)We look forward to many more opportunities that showcase our AWEP women.

AGM 2017

DAY BEFORE OUR AGM @ THE PITCH SEMI FINALS

AGM 2017

SOUTH WEST ZONAL MEETINGThe South West Ist Quarter Zonal Meeting, Workshop and Exhibitions

On Saturday 24th March the SW Zone had their first quarterly meet and it was a very good outing...

The workshop topics covered:

- Business Registration, trade marks and intellectual property

- Digital Marketing

- Export Readiness

Some of the comments from membership include;

Ify AWEP: Congratulations on a wonderful job. Other events will be even better.

Helen Oduyemi Osun:

All of us from Awep Oyo, was touched by the hospitality and trainings full of deep exposure,

We really experienced Awep. We say Thank you all.

Bose Olachi: A wonderful meeting and great seminars kudos to the SW president and her team. Congratulations

Bola- Bosh Fashions: Very meaningful workshop and meetup! Food was on point to ...welldone VP and exco members ......to all that came in from outside Lagos. We wish you a safe trip back!

ne of the Highlights of the last thAGM held on the 15 of November O2017 National Pitch Contest

which attracted submissions of pitches from various business women in AWEP vying for prize monies of N500,000 for

stthe Winner, N250,000 for the 1 runner ndup and N100,000 for the 2 runner –up,

kindly donated by Sterling Bank Nig. Plc. What made this even more exciting and competitive was the presentations made by the shortlisted candidates on the eve of the AGM. The bustling voices, nervous participants and excited audience was one to remember. Our Presentation Panel which consisted of our able consultant Mrs Aderoba, The out-going President Mrs. Zainab Jaji, Mrs Fsan-Robert and the Pitch Coordinator Ms Oluyemisi Ogundipe. We must not forget the crucial role of the time keeper Ms Nonye Umehi who kept time for the presenters during their presentations. The presentations were of varying styles and abilities but 3 winners emerged and they were 1. Clarks Pharmaceutical Company Ltd (Ngozi Ndu-Nwagu)2. Wimiza Investments (Esther Gindirin)3. ZeeEight12 (Ms Funmi Suleman & Tokunbo Olawunmi)We look forward to many more opportunities that showcase our AWEP women.

NEWS FROM SW...

DISASTER STRIKES ON AWEP SOUTHWEST MEMBER FARM A farm belonging to a state Coordinator of the South West Zone of African Women's entrepreneurship programme organisation Otunba Gbemi Oduntan (Seyi Oduntan Farms) located at Egushen farm site Iworo - Egushen Road Odoregushen Village Near Ijebu Ode Ijebu North East Local Government, Ogun State was attacked by the supposed cattle herdsmen. It is baffling that those who claim to be caring for animals for their livelihood would go to another person's farm, who is also sustaining their livelihood and that of others, to destroy their source of living and income.

There is something terribly wrong with this... well meaning and hardworking Nigerians who are contributing to the GDP of the Nation, employing labour and providing food for the food supply chain have a right to live and work in peace and not under threat of anyone. We must desist from usurping another to get ahead or to fulfil selfish agendas.

We as AWEP would advocate against this carnage and injustice

Continuous capacity building initiatives SW Zone Attending the SMEDAN Initiative

The members of the SW Zone show their eagerness to build capacity and grow their business by attending the SMEDAN

Here are some of the members products on display, lectures and some members with SW VP also in attendance

The South West Ist Quarter Zonal Meeting, Workshop and Exhibitions On Saturday 24th March the SW Zone had their first quarterly meet and it was a very good outing...

The workshop topics covered:

- Business Registration, trade marks and intellectual property

- Digital Marketing

- Export Readiness

Some of the comments from membership include;

Ify AWEP: Congratulations on a wonderful job. Other events will be even better. �

Helen Oduyemi Osun: All of us from Awep Oyo, was touched by the hospitality and trainings full of deep exposure, We really experience Awep. We say Thank you all.

Bose Olachi: A wonderful meeting and great seminars kudos to the SW president and her team. Congratulations

Bola- Bosh Fashions: Very meaningful workshop and meetup! Food was on point too�...welldone VP and exco members ......to all that came in from outside Lagos. We wish you a safe trip back!

NEWS FROM SW...

The South West Zone launched their Financial Aid Programme. This programme still at its teething stages is being set up to assist the business women under the AWEP Umbrella in anyway that is possible.

The first aid was a loan granted of 500,000 for 6 Months to 3 Beneficiaries who contested in a PITCH Competition to win this opportunity.

The Programme is being directed by the National President, The Zonal VP and a Consultant. They are:

1. The President AWEP NIG. - Mrs Angela Ajala

2. The South West VP - Ms Oluyemisi Ogundipe

3. Mrs Hilda Aderoba - Consultant

As the programme matures it is the business of SW Financial Aid to have various programmes the members can access to improve and move their business forward.

This first set of winners are :

1. Mrs Amede Achingele of Bosaz Global Ventures

2. Ms Ora Ataguba of Weave & Co

3. Mrs Ebun Feledu of P.O.G. Nig.

We congratulate them, the programme and the expected of success their respective businesses.

NEWS FROM SW...

DISASTER STRIKES ON AWEP SOUTHWEST MEMBER FARM A farm belonging to a state Coordinator of the South West Zone of African Women's entrepreneurship programme organisation Otunba Gbemi Oduntan (Seyi Oduntan Farms) located at Egushen farm site Iworo - Egushen Road Odoregushen Village Near Ijebu Ode Ijebu North East Local Government, Ogun State was attacked by the supposed cattle herdsmen. It is baffling that those who claim to be caring for animals for their livelihood would go to another person's farm, who is also sustaining their livelihood and that of others, to destroy their source of living and income.

There is something terribly wrong with this... well meaning and hardworking Nigerians who are contributing to the GDP of the Nation, employing labour and providing food for the food supply chain have a right to live and work in peace and not under threat of anyone. We must desist from usurping another to get ahead or to fulfil selfish agendas.

We as AWEP would advocate against this carnage and injustice

Continuous capacity building initiatives SW Zone Attending the SMEDAN Initiative

The members of the SW Zone show their eagerness to build capacity and grow their business by attending the SMEDAN

Here are some of the members products on display, lectures and some members with SW VP also in attendance

The South West Ist Quarter Zonal Meeting, Workshop and Exhibitions On Saturday 24th March the SW Zone had their first quarterly meet and it was a very good outing...

The workshop topics covered:

- Business Registration, trade marks and intellectual property

- Digital Marketing

- Export Readiness

Some of the comments from membership include;

Ify AWEP: Congratulations on a wonderful job. Other events will be even better. �

Helen Oduyemi Osun: All of us from Awep Oyo, was touched by the hospitality and trainings full of deep exposure, We really experience Awep. We say Thank you all.

Bose Olachi: A wonderful meeting and great seminars kudos to the SW president and her team. Congratulations

Bola- Bosh Fashions: Very meaningful workshop and meetup! Food was on point too�...welldone VP and exco members ......to all that came in from outside Lagos. We wish you a safe trip back!

NEWS FROM SW...

The South West Zone launched their Financial Aid Programme. This programme still at its teething stages is being set up to assist the business women under the AWEP Umbrella in anyway that is possible.

The first aid was a loan granted of 500,000 for 6 Months to 3 Beneficiaries who contested in a PITCH Competition to win this opportunity.

The Programme is being directed by the National President, The Zonal VP and a Consultant. They are:

1. The President AWEP NIG. - Mrs Angela Ajala

2. The South West VP - Ms Oluyemisi Ogundipe

3. Mrs Hilda Aderoba - Consultant

As the programme matures it is the business of SW Financial Aid to have various programmes the members can access to improve and move their business forward.

This first set of winners are :

1. Mrs Amede Achingele of Bosaz Global Ventures

2. Ms Ora Ataguba of Weave & Co

3. Mrs Ebun Feledu of P.O.G. Nig.

We congratulate them, the programme and the expected of success their respective businesses.

Aspire: Starting A Successful Business

ELEOJO PETERS, MEMBER SW, DOING GREAT THINGS

This book on starting a successful business is woven around Eyen Etiowo the central character. Eyen saw the rise and fall of her father's businesses. At a point, her father was the toast of parties and musicians sang his praises. However, things took a bad turn and his businesses failed one after the other. The musicians and all the hangers-on disappeared. Eyen didn't want to have any such experience so she sought counsel from those who had successful businesses in different sectors of the economy. She applied the lessons and she liked the outcome. The book is a lively two hundred page read that has a lesson or two for every business person. The author Ekaette Umoh is a Chartered Accountant, and alumnus of Enterprise Development Centre of Pan Atlantic University, Lagos and Lagos Business

School. She is the Vice President, Lagos Business School Alumni Association Northern Region. She is the Chairperson of NECA's Network of Entrepreneurial Women (NNEW) Abuja Chapter, President, League of Akwa Ibom Professionals member African Women's Entrepreneurship Program (AWEP). Ekaette Umoh has been on popular business programmes like Money Show with Nancy on AIT and Good Morning Africa on MNET on Channel 154. She is also a regular guest on Jelas Clinic on WeFM radio station, Abuja as a business and finance expert. Mrs. Ekaette Umoh is the founding MD/CEO of Business Support Microfinance Bank and is currently the Lead Consultant at Ekaville Consulting.

womendoinggreatthings

Eleojo Obaje Peters, the Managing Director of Eleojo Foods Nig. Our vision at Eleojo Foods is to build a world class institution in NATURAL Foods And beverages for a healthier world. On 10 hecters of Land in Kogi State is rice farm, new ultra

modern factory with equipment from Alvan blanc in the UK,the foremost manufacturers of agricultural equipment in the world. From this factory rice and other grains like sorghum, millet, corn etc will be produced. We have two factories running now where we

produce rice and honey using international best practice and standards. Our innovation is reflected in the market place as Adjele unpolished rice, Adjele natural bee honey both in sachet for a single use and pet bottles, Adjele palm oil, Adjele dried and grinded Locust beans, and Adjele dried bitter leaf. Welcome on board on all our value chains for empowerment Our products are available at leading stores, major markets within Nigeria .Our head office is no 57 Inikpi street, Idah Kogi state and Lagos office is 32A Awori road, Dolphin estate Ikoyi. In Abuja , no 10,Yenegoa street, off Oyo road, Area 2.,Garki Abuja. Our contacts are 234 8023137465. www. eleojofoodsng. com, eleojorosemary@gmail.com. instagram as Eleojo Foods. Twitter as Eleojo foods..fb as Natural rice, honey and beyond. Eleojo Foods, innovating daily for your total well-being.

WEP has registered her presence in Cross River State at last on Tuesday February 6, A

2018 and was well received through a courtesy visit granted by the First Lady, Her Excellency, Dr Linda B. Ayade. Mission and purpose of AWEP was read out from the program brochure that had a caption: “AWEP in Cross River”. A letter from the AWEP National President was also read out to the audience and later handed over to her Excellency which she received with gladness.

Her Excellency expressed her happiness to be the Premiere Matron of AWEP in Cross River State and thanked the National president for the opportunities AGOA and AFRICANDO will bring to her women in her domain. She said that AWEP programs and projects will make much synergy with her pet project- CROWEI (Cross River Women Entrepreneurship Initiative), and she promised that she will give the Cross River chapter of AWEP an office space in the same secretariat complex with CROWEI. Her Excellency promised to nominate other women to complete the chapter executive committee before the inauguration.

As highlighted in the Cross River Chapter 2018 program and in the South South Roadmap, the legacy project of Cross River State Chapter was mentioned to be a Renewable Energy Technology Center (RET-Center) which would be launched in the third quarter of 2018. The Blueprint of the project along with the Zonal roadmap was handed over to the Chapter coordinator, Hon. Agnes Atsu for her executive committee perusal and follow up.

Her excellency confirmed that Cross River Chapter of AWEP will be formally inaugurated on February 21, 2018 at the Millennium park along Calabar road. The inaugural ceremony will be flanked with an Expo for minimum viable Products of Small and Medium Scale Entrepreneurs in Cross River State.

After the courtesy meeting with her Excellency, a meeting was arranged with the Special Adviser to the Governor on Renewable energy. The meeting took place at Margaret Ekpo International Airport at 2:30 PM. The meeting was in line with AWEP project for Cross River State waste-to-wealth program which AWEP South South has developed a scheme called CRREEP (Cross River Renewable Energy Entrepreneurship Program.

CREEP main objectives Is to provide Vocational training and create awareness of the benefits of renewable energy and Energy efficiency to women in Cross River State. It is believed that Increasing Cross River State Women's Participation in Renewable Energy Sector will build up a cadre of women as renewable energy technicians, entrepreneurs, and policy-makers, through activities of CRREEP. This is AWEP’s means of empowering women to achieve such integration and amplify the Role of Women in Sustainable Energy Development.

The news about the courtesy visit was in the News item of cross River Radio and Television and was streamed live on several social media including twitter handle of her Excellency.

AWEP in Cross River State ...Pays courtesy visit to the First Lady, Her Excellency, Dr Linda B. Ayade

Aspire: Starting A Successful Business

ELEOJO PETERS, MEMBER SW, DOING GREAT THINGS

This book on starting a successful business is woven around Eyen Etiowo the central character. Eyen saw the rise and fall of her father's businesses. At a point, her father was the toast of parties and musicians sang his praises. However, things took a bad turn and his businesses failed one after the other. The musicians and all the hangers-on disappeared. Eyen didn't want to have any such experience so she sought counsel from those who had successful businesses in different sectors of the economy. She applied the lessons and she liked the outcome. The book is a lively two hundred page read that has a lesson or two for every business person. The author Ekaette Umoh is a Chartered Accountant, and alumnus of Enterprise Development Centre of Pan Atlantic University, Lagos and Lagos Business

School. She is the Vice President, Lagos Business School Alumni Association Northern Region. She is the Chairperson of NECA's Network of Entrepreneurial Women (NNEW) Abuja Chapter, President, League of Akwa Ibom Professionals member African Women's Entrepreneurship Program (AWEP). Ekaette Umoh has been on popular business programmes like Money Show with Nancy on AIT and Good Morning Africa on MNET on Channel 154. She is also a regular guest on Jelas Clinic on WeFM radio station, Abuja as a business and finance expert. Mrs. Ekaette Umoh is the founding MD/CEO of Business Support Microfinance Bank and is currently the Lead Consultant at Ekaville Consulting.

womendoinggreatthings

Eleojo Obaje Peters, the Managing Director of Eleojo Foods Nig. Our vision at Eleojo Foods is to build a world class institution in NATURAL Foods And beverages for a healthier world. On 10 hecters of Land in Kogi State is rice farm, new ultra

modern factory with equipment from Alvan blanc in the UK,the foremost manufacturers of agricultural equipment in the world. From this factory rice and other grains like sorghum, millet, corn etc will be produced. We have two factories running now where we

produce rice and honey using international best practice and standards. Our innovation is reflected in the market place as Adjele unpolished rice, Adjele natural bee honey both in sachet for a single use and pet bottles, Adjele palm oil, Adjele dried and grinded Locust beans, and Adjele dried bitter leaf. Welcome on board on all our value chains for empowerment Our products are available at leading stores, major markets within Nigeria .Our head office is no 57 Inikpi street, Idah Kogi state and Lagos office is 32A Awori road, Dolphin estate Ikoyi. In Abuja , no 10,Yenegoa street, off Oyo road, Area 2.,Garki Abuja. Our contacts are 234 8023137465. www. eleojofoodsng. com, eleojorosemary@gmail.com. instagram as Eleojo Foods. Twitter as Eleojo foods..fb as Natural rice, honey and beyond. Eleojo Foods, innovating daily for your total well-being.

WEP has registered her presence in Cross River State at last on Tuesday February 6, A

2018 and was well received through a courtesy visit granted by the First Lady, Her Excellency, Dr Linda B. Ayade. Mission and purpose of AWEP was read out from the program brochure that had a caption: “AWEP in Cross River”. A letter from the AWEP National President was also read out to the audience and later handed over to her Excellency which she received with gladness.

Her Excellency expressed her happiness to be the Premiere Matron of AWEP in Cross River State and thanked the National president for the opportunities AGOA and AFRICANDO will bring to her women in her domain. She said that AWEP programs and projects will make much synergy with her pet project- CROWEI (Cross River Women Entrepreneurship Initiative), and she promised that she will give the Cross River chapter of AWEP an office space in the same secretariat complex with CROWEI. Her Excellency promised to nominate other women to complete the chapter executive committee before the inauguration.

As highlighted in the Cross River Chapter 2018 program and in the South South Roadmap, the legacy project of Cross River State Chapter was mentioned to be a Renewable Energy Technology Center (RET-Center) which would be launched in the third quarter of 2018. The Blueprint of the project along with the Zonal roadmap was handed over to the Chapter coordinator, Hon. Agnes Atsu for her executive committee perusal and follow up.

Her excellency confirmed that Cross River Chapter of AWEP will be formally inaugurated on February 21, 2018 at the Millennium park along Calabar road. The inaugural ceremony will be flanked with an Expo for minimum viable Products of Small and Medium Scale Entrepreneurs in Cross River State.

After the courtesy meeting with her Excellency, a meeting was arranged with the Special Adviser to the Governor on Renewable energy. The meeting took place at Margaret Ekpo International Airport at 2:30 PM. The meeting was in line with AWEP project for Cross River State waste-to-wealth program which AWEP South South has developed a scheme called CRREEP (Cross River Renewable Energy Entrepreneurship Program.

CREEP main objectives Is to provide Vocational training and create awareness of the benefits of renewable energy and Energy efficiency to women in Cross River State. It is believed that Increasing Cross River State Women's Participation in Renewable Energy Sector will build up a cadre of women as renewable energy technicians, entrepreneurs, and policy-makers, through activities of CRREEP. This is AWEP’s means of empowering women to achieve such integration and amplify the Role of Women in Sustainable Energy Development.

The news about the courtesy visit was in the News item of cross River Radio and Television and was streamed live on several social media including twitter handle of her Excellency.

AWEP in Cross River State ...Pays courtesy visit to the First Lady, Her Excellency, Dr Linda B. Ayade

The newly elected Southeast Executive members led by her National Vice president, Southeast Zonal, Barr Mrs Tessy Igweani paid a courtesy call on the special Adviser to the Enugu state Governor on SME, HON Anayo Agu on the 13th of February, 2018.Welcoming the new AWEP Southeast Exco members in the center's conference hall, the SME center boss, HON Anayo Agu appreciated the last Exco for the achievements recorded since inauguration in 2016. He further pledged his support for the group which he described as a serious one.He immediately granted the National Vice president's request for a free quarterly use the center's training hall and facilities for meetings and trainings as well approved the request for the center's support with facilitators during AWEP's trainings when necessary.Finally he promised to study our list of prayers, discuss with his team on other possible areas of collaboration including business support and information.On the same day, the Exco also visited the General Manager of Solid FM 100.9The GM of Solid Fm who incidentally is a woman was happy to welcome the zonal executive as they berthed in her office and offered to support AWEP's programmes in terms of visibility and called upon AWEP to groom young girls and ladies in school towards being Entrepreneurs.

THE next port of call was the Zonal Coordinator of NEPC who assured us of mentoring and coaching in order to see more women dare into export which is one of their mandates by trainings, Market access and information.

AWEP SE NEW EXCOPAY COURTESY VISITS....

Sequel to this, AWEP South East on the 14th of February, 2018, paid a courtesy call on the Commissioner for Agriculture Enugu State who was pleased to have them and assured them of his ministry's readiness to provide all necessary support for to integrate AWEP into her programs for farmers. On the sport, he announced that AWEP will be provided a Desk Officer in the ministry. He further handed the visiting Executive members over to the Permanent Secretary and Project Officer, Agric extension to intimate them on the APPEAL and Anchor Borrower's programme and other opportunities available from partnering with the ministry including training opportunities. An AWEP file was immediately opened and detailed dscussions ensued on how AWEP would key in effectively.

AWEP SOUTHEAST POISED TO BENEFIT FROM FADAMA III PROJECT...Allocated 200 Hectares Of Farmland By Imeagu Ugbuawka Rice Production Cluster-mpcs Ltd In Enugu State For Rice Cultivation Come The Next Planting Season. Under A Mutually Beneficial Arrangement, Awep Southeast Members Have Formed Eight Cooperatives Each Consisting Of 50% Members And 50% Local Female Farmers Of The Community Adopted By AWEP.

SOUTHEASTFeelers SOUTHEAST Feelers

he leadership of AWEP, South East visited Onitsha, Anambra state on 7th March, 2018 for a One-day Sensitization Seminar which attracted over thirty women. Presentations & Exhibitions were made by our Tmembers to expose AWEP & Women entrepreneurship. We gained two members from that trip.Sensitization Seminar held in Onitsha, Anambra State

AWEP SOUTHEAST held her first ever Retreat on the 16th &17th February, 2018 at DRACC, Enugu. On the first day, women had interactive sessions with FADAMA, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, SMEDAN, NEPC, NEXIM Bank and ENUGU State SME Center. They were furnished with functions of each agency and available business support we could get from them. Each reiterated the fact that AWEP is a strong Women's group with a lot of potentials to help members grow in business individually and collectively if only we can harness the numerous opportunities available especially in the Agricultural value chain and leverage on them. They all pledged their readiness to hand hold us to achieving greatness through partnership with us.

The day wound up with a lecture by Mrs Rita Okoronkwo of the SME Centre on book keeping and Record keeping. Members were enlightened at the end.

The second day was dominated by the quarterly meeting of members .All the states of the Southeast were well represented except Imo, where AWEP doesn't have a presence yet. The 2018 Road map of the Zone was unveiled and discussed during the meeting which was well attended and had an appreciable number of new members. The gathering played host to Dr. Ayuk who spoke exhaustively on the proposed partnership between him as technical adviser and AWEP on the proposed AWEP'S rice farm project.He gave details of steps so far taken and announced that we are now waiting

for fadama to prime our members in readiness for our partnership with FADAMA on the rice project.

Decisions were taken on dates for holding the first AWEP seminars in March in each of the other Southeast states as a sensitization strategy and prelude to the inauguration of AWEP in those states in April.

Tidying up Zonal clusters, issues of cooperatives societies and decisions on AWEP southeast activities to mark the International Women's Day celebration also took the front burners and were concluded .

During the very participatory interactive session which followed, a lot of members revealed the positive impact Joining AWEP has made on their businesses and called for such Zonal Retreats to be held quarterly . After listening to a young female entrepreneur just in her early 20s as she narrated her success story, the Zone resolved to propose to AWEP Nigeria to establish YOUNG FEMALE Entrepreneurs Program of AWEP to help bridge the gap , inculcate the spirit of entrepreneurship in our youth , reduce unemployment and grow future entrepreneurs for Nigeria

The retreat ended on a very high note after a member, Amede facilitated a training session on the topic :Entrepreneurship skills training.

AWEP SOUTHEAST ENGAGES MEMBERS DURING HER MAIDEN RETREAT

The newly elected Southeast Executive members led by her National Vice president, Southeast Zonal, Barr Mrs Tessy Igweani paid a courtesy call on the special Adviser to the Enugu state Governor on SME, HON Anayo Agu on the 13th of February, 2018.Welcoming the new AWEP Southeast Exco members in the center's conference hall, the SME center boss, HON Anayo Agu appreciated the last Exco for the achievements recorded since inauguration in 2016. He further pledged his support for the group which he described as a serious one.He immediately granted the National Vice president's request for a free quarterly use the center's training hall and facilities for meetings and trainings as well approved the request for the center's support with facilitators during AWEP's trainings when necessary.Finally he promised to study our list of prayers, discuss with his team on other possible areas of collaboration including business support and information.On the same day, the Exco also visited the General Manager of Solid FM 100.9The GM of Solid Fm who incidentally is a woman was happy to welcome the zonal executive as they berthed in her office and offered to support AWEP's programmes in terms of visibility and called upon AWEP to groom young girls and ladies in school towards being Entrepreneurs.

THE next port of call was the Zonal Coordinator of NEPC who assured us of mentoring and coaching in order to see more women dare into export which is one of their mandates by trainings, Market access and information.

AWEP SE NEW EXCOPAY COURTESY VISITS....

Sequel to this, AWEP South East on the 14th of February, 2018, paid a courtesy call on the Commissioner for Agriculture Enugu State who was pleased to have them and assured them of his ministry's readiness to provide all necessary support for to integrate AWEP into her programs for farmers. On the sport, he announced that AWEP will be provided a Desk Officer in the ministry. He further handed the visiting Executive members over to the Permanent Secretary and Project Officer, Agric extension to intimate them on the APPEAL and Anchor Borrower's programme and other opportunities available from partnering with the ministry including training opportunities. An AWEP file was immediately opened and detailed dscussions ensued on how AWEP would key in effectively.

AWEP SOUTHEAST POISED TO BENEFIT FROM FADAMA III PROJECT...Allocated 200 Hectares Of Farmland By Imeagu Ugbuawka Rice Production Cluster-mpcs Ltd In Enugu State For Rice Cultivation Come The Next Planting Season. Under A Mutually Beneficial Arrangement, Awep Southeast Members Have Formed Eight Cooperatives Each Consisting Of 50% Members And 50% Local Female Farmers Of The Community Adopted By AWEP.

SOUTHEASTFeelers SOUTHEAST Feelers

he leadership of AWEP, South East visited Onitsha, Anambra state on 7th March, 2018 for a One-day Sensitization Seminar which attracted over thirty women. Presentations & Exhibitions were made by our Tmembers to expose AWEP & Women entrepreneurship. We gained two members from that trip.Sensitization Seminar held in Onitsha, Anambra State

AWEP SOUTHEAST held her first ever Retreat on the 16th &17th February, 2018 at DRACC, Enugu. On the first day, women had interactive sessions with FADAMA, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, SMEDAN, NEPC, NEXIM Bank and ENUGU State SME Center. They were furnished with functions of each agency and available business support we could get from them. Each reiterated the fact that AWEP is a strong Women's group with a lot of potentials to help members grow in business individually and collectively if only we can harness the numerous opportunities available especially in the Agricultural value chain and leverage on them. They all pledged their readiness to hand hold us to achieving greatness through partnership with us.

The day wound up with a lecture by Mrs Rita Okoronkwo of the SME Centre on book keeping and Record keeping. Members were enlightened at the end.

The second day was dominated by the quarterly meeting of members .All the states of the Southeast were well represented except Imo, where AWEP doesn't have a presence yet. The 2018 Road map of the Zone was unveiled and discussed during the meeting which was well attended and had an appreciable number of new members. The gathering played host to Dr. Ayuk who spoke exhaustively on the proposed partnership between him as technical adviser and AWEP on the proposed AWEP'S rice farm project.He gave details of steps so far taken and announced that we are now waiting

for fadama to prime our members in readiness for our partnership with FADAMA on the rice project.

Decisions were taken on dates for holding the first AWEP seminars in March in each of the other Southeast states as a sensitization strategy and prelude to the inauguration of AWEP in those states in April.

Tidying up Zonal clusters, issues of cooperatives societies and decisions on AWEP southeast activities to mark the International Women's Day celebration also took the front burners and were concluded .

During the very participatory interactive session which followed, a lot of members revealed the positive impact Joining AWEP has made on their businesses and called for such Zonal Retreats to be held quarterly . After listening to a young female entrepreneur just in her early 20s as she narrated her success story, the Zone resolved to propose to AWEP Nigeria to establish YOUNG FEMALE Entrepreneurs Program of AWEP to help bridge the gap , inculcate the spirit of entrepreneurship in our youth , reduce unemployment and grow future entrepreneurs for Nigeria

The retreat ended on a very high note after a member, Amede facilitated a training session on the topic :Entrepreneurship skills training.

AWEP SOUTHEAST ENGAGES MEMBERS DURING HER MAIDEN RETREAT

n 21st march 2018 during a one-day sensitization seminar & mini exhibition attended by members from all the states of the south east Ozone led by the vp, barr tessy igweani. & our

partners. Over forty female entrepreneurs were mobilized to attend., presentations were made by nepc, smedan, nafdac & two of our members who spoke entrepreneurial mindset & cooperative society as a panacea for successful entrepreneurship. Highlights of the occasion was the presentation of the inauguration certificate by barr tessy igweni to the abia state coordinator, dr. Mrs. Grace okaro, cutting of the inauguration cake, formal presentation of the south east road map, exhibitions mounted by female entrepreneurs in attendance & the town hall meeting created for the exchange of ideas.

SOUTHEAST

AWEP Abia State, inaugurated

ine members of AWEP, South East attended a 3-day Capacity Building Workshop organized by SMEDAN in Owerri on 26 - 28 February, 2018. Members participated actively in both the NWorkshop & Exhibitions. Presentations were made by SON, NAFDAC, SMEDAN & a

specialist in Labeling & Packaging.

SMEDAN 3-DAY CAPACITY BUILDING WORKSHOP TAKES PLACE IN OWERRI

SOUTHEAST

n a related development, the South East Zone also collaborated with the Enugu IState College of Education Technical

Women Association in the activities marking the International Women's Day on 9th March, 2018. In a bid to catch them young for AWEP, the youth wing inaugurated. Over 30 students who signed up received scholarships in skill acquisition courtesy of one of the members, Lilian John who is in Catering Services cluster.

Collaboration with Women in Colleges of Education (CIWE) to mark IWD on 9 March

In commemoration of the international women's day, awep south east spotting their new branded petticoats joined other women groups at okpara square, enugu in the activities marking the celebrations.

IWD celebrations @ SE chapter

Members featured in a phone-in radio programme at Solid FM for public enlightenment of what AWEP is all about, encouraging women to join them in the moving train.

...TAKES TO THE AIRWAVE

n 21st march 2018 during a one-day sensitization seminar & mini exhibition attended by members from all the states of the south east Ozone led by the vp, barr tessy igweani. & our

partners. Over forty female entrepreneurs were mobilized to attend., presentations were made by nepc, smedan, nafdac & two of our members who spoke entrepreneurial mindset & cooperative society as a panacea for successful entrepreneurship. Highlights of the occasion was the presentation of the inauguration certificate by barr tessy igweni to the abia state coordinator, dr. Mrs. Grace okaro, cutting of the inauguration cake, formal presentation of the south east road map, exhibitions mounted by female entrepreneurs in attendance & the town hall meeting created for the exchange of ideas.

SOUTHEAST

AWEP Abia State, inaugurated

ine members of AWEP, South East attended a 3-day Capacity Building Workshop organized by SMEDAN in Owerri on 26 - 28 February, 2018. Members participated actively in both the NWorkshop & Exhibitions. Presentations were made by SON, NAFDAC, SMEDAN & a

specialist in Labeling & Packaging.

SMEDAN 3-DAY CAPACITY BUILDING WORKSHOP TAKES PLACE IN OWERRI

SOUTHEAST

n a related development, the South East Zone also collaborated with the Enugu IState College of Education Technical

Women Association in the activities marking the International Women's Day on 9th March, 2018. In a bid to catch them young for AWEP, the youth wing inaugurated. Over 30 students who signed up received scholarships in skill acquisition courtesy of one of the members, Lilian John who is in Catering Services cluster.

Collaboration with Women in Colleges of Education (CIWE) to mark IWD on 9 March

In commemoration of the international women's day, awep south east spotting their new branded petticoats joined other women groups at okpara square, enugu in the activities marking the celebrations.

IWD celebrations @ SE chapter

Members featured in a phone-in radio programme at Solid FM for public enlightenment of what AWEP is all about, encouraging women to join them in the moving train.

...TAKES TO THE AIRWAVE

An Agricultural study tour took some AWEP Members on an excursion for to Cotonou, Benin Republic. those interested in Agric to see new research methodologies at work.

The tour featured Animal and poultry rearing, Mushroom Planting, Fishery Processing of syrups, etc Conversion of waste to organic manure Biofuel and energy generation using farm

Songhai trip - An Agricultural study tour

STUDY TOUR

CSR

The just concluded breast cancer event held in Abuja was hosted by the Alliance Hospital in collaboration with the African Women Entrepreneurial Program (AWEP) and Mariam Adeoti Akosile Foundation (MAAF).

The event was a public seminar themed: THE CURRENT TRENDS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF BREAST CANCER

The host speaker Dr Bisi Ademuyiwa, was listed in Forbes Magazine as one of the 27 top breast Oncologist in USA.

She engaged the medical community sharing America’s recent developments in breast cancer management and gave free medical consultation to over 40 women with breast cancer concerns.

-The event was sponsored by Axa Mansard.

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS SEMINAR TAKES PLACE IN ABUJA

SOUTHEAST

Day AWEP National President, Mrs Angela Ajala came calling on SOUTHEAST

AWEP SouthEast is pleased to announce that the following two companies : Clark Pharmaceuticals Ltd, makers of a range of baby and hygiene products, owned by Mrs Ngozi Nwagu and Gift Foods Ltd makers of assorted beverages and cornflour, owned by Mrs Uche Alor have been invited to attend a trade fair in Ghana in March with NEPC. Our prayers and thoughts for a successful outing are with them!

EXPORT READINESS

An Agricultural study tour took some AWEP Members on an excursion for to Cotonou, Benin Republic. those interested in Agric to see new research methodologies at work.

The tour featured Animal and poultry rearing, Mushroom Planting, Fishery Processing of syrups, etc Conversion of waste to organic manure Biofuel and energy generation using farm

Songhai trip - An Agricultural study tour

STUDY TOUR

CSR

The just concluded breast cancer event held in Abuja was hosted by the Alliance Hospital in collaboration with the African Women Entrepreneurial Program (AWEP) and Mariam Adeoti Akosile Foundation (MAAF).

The event was a public seminar themed: THE CURRENT TRENDS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF BREAST CANCER

The host speaker Dr Bisi Ademuyiwa, was listed in Forbes Magazine as one of the 27 top breast Oncologist in USA.

She engaged the medical community sharing America’s recent developments in breast cancer management and gave free medical consultation to over 40 women with breast cancer concerns.

-The event was sponsored by Axa Mansard.

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS SEMINAR TAKES PLACE IN ABUJA

SOUTHEAST

Day AWEP National President, Mrs Angela Ajala came calling on SOUTHEAST

AWEP SouthEast is pleased to announce that the following two companies : Clark Pharmaceuticals Ltd, makers of a range of baby and hygiene products, owned by Mrs Ngozi Nwagu and Gift Foods Ltd makers of assorted beverages and cornflour, owned by Mrs Uche Alor have been invited to attend a trade fair in Ghana in March with NEPC. Our prayers and thoughts for a successful outing are with them!

EXPORT READINESS

he North Central training brought together women from various quarters Tin a one-stop workshop with a theme "

"Turning ideas into money"! The essence of the training was to expand the scope of women to think outside the box in generating extra sources of income amidst the prevailing economic crises!

The need for capacity building can not be overemphasized! The women were exposed to first hand information from the Raw Material Research and Development as well as the

Corporate Affairs Commission.

The banks were on hand to extend credit to the women as they encouraged a savings culture to scale-up their businesses.

The women were enlightened on the relevance of Cooperatives,as they are the bedrock to sustainability.40% of the women picked forms to sign up as members.

A mini exhibition stand created visibilty for members products.

North Central AWEP Zone train Members on

How to Turn Ideas Into Money

NORTHWEST

NORTH WESTMOBILIZATION

NORTHWEST

Member mobilization at AWEP North West

Awep activities in the North west kicked off with an interactive session with women entrepreneurs on the 3rd of February 2018 in kaduna

Twenty three women attended the interactive session and sixteen indicated their interest to join Awep

Kaduna chapter of Awep has had two meetings subsequently the first attended by 15women and the 2nd by 22 women

At the meetings women were given the opportunity to introduce their businesses and network

Other activities in Kaduna chapter includes visits to potential partners. So far the chapter has visited the commissioner for women affairs and the Director of the entrepreneurship center in Kaduna state university. The Advocacy visits are still ongoing

In addition the chapter is also planning a project tagged 'wetin you sabi' which targets secondary school girls to encourage skill acquisition .

The Kaduna chapter will be inaugurated in may

An interactive session has also taken place in kano .11 women were in attendance and 8 indicated interest to join Awep membership

Arrangements are in top gear for the interactive sessions to be held in the remaining states of the north west namely sokoto, zamfara, jigawa, katsina, and kebbi states

The North west now has members in three states namely kaduna, kano and

INTERNATIONAL WOMENS DAY ’IN North WestNorth West

he North Central training brought together women from various quarters Tin a one-stop workshop with a theme "

"Turning ideas into money"! The essence of the training was to expand the scope of women to think outside the box in generating extra sources of income amidst the prevailing economic crises!

The need for capacity building can not be overemphasized! The women were exposed to first hand information from the Raw Material Research and Development as well as the

Corporate Affairs Commission.

The banks were on hand to extend credit to the women as they encouraged a savings culture to scale-up their businesses.

The women were enlightened on the relevance of Cooperatives,as they are the bedrock to sustainability.40% of the women picked forms to sign up as members.

A mini exhibition stand created visibilty for members products.

North Central AWEP Zone train Members on

How to Turn Ideas Into Money

NORTHWEST

NORTH WESTMOBILIZATION

NORTHWEST

Member mobilization at AWEP North West

Awep activities in the North west kicked off with an interactive session with women entrepreneurs on the 3rd of February 2018 in kaduna

Twenty three women attended the interactive session and sixteen indicated their interest to join Awep

Kaduna chapter of Awep has had two meetings subsequently the first attended by 15women and the 2nd by 22 women

At the meetings women were given the opportunity to introduce their businesses and network

Other activities in Kaduna chapter includes visits to potential partners. So far the chapter has visited the commissioner for women affairs and the Director of the entrepreneurship center in Kaduna state university. The Advocacy visits are still ongoing

In addition the chapter is also planning a project tagged 'wetin you sabi' which targets secondary school girls to encourage skill acquisition .

The Kaduna chapter will be inaugurated in may

An interactive session has also taken place in kano .11 women were in attendance and 8 indicated interest to join Awep membership

Arrangements are in top gear for the interactive sessions to be held in the remaining states of the north west namely sokoto, zamfara, jigawa, katsina, and kebbi states

The North west now has members in three states namely kaduna, kano and

INTERNATIONAL WOMENS DAY ’IN North WestNorth West