ACADEMY FOR WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS (AWE) DRC

Empowering women 
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• Entrepreneurship Training:

Based on the proven dreambuilder online program, we provide trainings to women entrepreneurs on issues related but not limited to marketing, business plan writing, fundraising & legal advisories

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• Product / Process / Service Design Support

We provide advisory services to women entrepreneurs on creating a service concept / a process / a product that focused on the customer's experience. In so doing, we accelerate their business.

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• Guest Speakers:

We expose female entrepreneurs to successful business leaders and experts in various domains in a way to bring value to their entrepreneurial journey. Most of our role model are successful women entrepreneurs who have pushed beyond limits.

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• Funding

We constantly seek partnerships with various organizations and individuals with the goal to provide funding to the most prospective AWE participants. Some of our partners include the USADF, the Harvard Univerisity Center for African Studies,...

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Our mission

Working under the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) of the U.S. Department of State, AWE DR Congo aims to give enterprising women the knowledge, networks and access they need to launch and scale successful businesses. In so doing, AWE – DRC helps to foster mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to promote friendly and peaceful relations.

Note: This program is implemented by Groupe Utalii Kwetu nonprofit

AWE DRC Leadership Training at Harvard University (HBS)

Our top 10 Cohort 1 participants at Harvard University

10 exceptional women from AWE DRC soared to Harvard for a transformative leadership training! Out of 100 participants, these achievers secured a coveted spot at Harvard Business School & beyond. They honed their skills in: Scaling Businesses: Financial management, cash flow, and navigating the African business landscape. Leadership & Sustainability: Building a strong support system and integrating values into business practices. Future of Work: Embracing innovation & leveraging Africa's cultural heritage. The Africa Free Trade Agreement.

AWE DRC Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) cohort 2

FAQ : Frequency asked Questions

To help you navigate the application process, we've compiled a comprehensive list of AWE DRC frequently asked questions and their answers. Building upon the resounding success of our inaugural cohort, the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs DRC (AWE DRC) is thrilled to announce our second call for applications. Once more, AWE DRC will endeavor to empower female entrepreneurs from five cities across the Democratic Republic of Congo.

AWE DRC program, Kinshasa Hub

Empowering Female Entrepreneurs in the DR Congo

Launched in 2023 by the U.S. Department of State and implemented by Groupe Utalii Kwetu nonprofit, the AWE DRC program is specifically designed to address the unique needs of female entrepreneurs in the DRC. It equips them with the knowledge, networks, and access to resources necessary to thrive in a competitive market.

Are you an enterprising female entrepreneur?

Are you willing to bring your venture to the next level and make an impact in your community?

The Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) DRC is here to help you. With our network of resources and experienced mentors, we can help you achieve your goals. Contact us today and let us know how we can support you on your journey!

What we offer

The Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) DRC is dedicated to helping women entrepreneurs build successful businesses. To do this, AWE – DRC offers a variety of programs designed to provide the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary for success.

  • Entrepreneurship Training
  • Product / Process / Service Design Support
  • Guest Speakers
  • Possible access to grant funding
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Our team

Our team is made not only with a group of people with an extensive experience in the entrepreneurship arena in DR Congo. Additionally, they have all been actively supporting the development of female entrepreneurs in DR Congo.

Together we are a powerful force for female entrepreneurs across the DR Congo.

Veridique Musambaghani, AWE DRC program implementer
Veridique M.

AWE DRC program implementor 2021 MWF Fellow / Serial Entrepreneur

Pacy Mukoko Karondji, AWE DRC facilitator / Bukavu
Pacy Bukoko Marondji

Facilitator Lubumbashi Hub CEO of MarZ Corporation

Esther Atosha, AWE DRC facilitator Bukavu hub
Esther Atosha

Facilitator Bukavu hub Entrepreneurial coach for Street Business School

Divine Ela, AWE DRC facilitator Kinshasa hub
Divine Ela

Facilitator Kinshasa hub

Safi Mambo Sophie

Facilitator Goma hub / CEO & Founder SAFI EVENTS

AWE Kisangani facilitator / Gloria Makeni
Gloria Makeni

Facilitator Kisangani Hub

Testimonials

Hear from our alumni on how the program has impacted their work.

The Dreambuilder app, with its attractively displayed courses, made me realize the important aspects I was overlooking, such as planning, strategy, and accounting. The live masterclasses held every Wednesday were very constructive and encouraging, thanks to my mentor. Thanks to the program, my partner and I are reexamining our steps toward growing our project with the better insights I have gathered so far.
Heri Masumbuko Audrey, An AWE DRC participant from Bukavu, CEO of Ever-Addict a business in the Welness Industry
Audrey Heri (Bukavu Hub) CEO of Ever'Addict
My selection among the 100 Congolese women entrepreneurs by AWE was a tremendous privilege. This platform has allowed me to forge valuable connections, enhance my entrepreneurial skills, and draw inspiration from the experiences of other participants. The spirit of solidarity and listening that prevailed within the program fostered mutual support and the deepening of our knowledge. The freedom of expression allowed us to share our ideas and learn from each other.
Kitumaini Shamaba Esperance, an AWE DRC participant, founder of Butamu ASPK.
Kitumaini Espérance (Bukavu Hub) CEO of BUTAMU ASPK
Mentorship and networking have provided invaluable advice, support, and skills development. AWE DRC has offered training, mentoring, and networking opportunities that have enhanced my entrepreneurial journey. Thanks to the program, the belief in myself has increased, I have defined clear objectives, and more than ever, I am focused on my passion and vision
Sandra Kabeya CEO of Berakah and AWE DRC participant, Kinshasa Hub
Sandra Kabeya (Kinshasa Hub) CEO of Berakah Ltd
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Cohorts

Apply now, AWE DRC Cohort 2                                                                                                             Click here to apply.