REAP Women Entrepreneurship Project 2024: Empowering Female Entrepreneurs in Jamaica
Thirty women in Kingston and Portmore to receive business skills training and support through the REAP Women Entrepreneurship Project 2024.
In an effort to address high unemployment and poverty levels in communities surrounding PriceSmart establishments in Kingston and Portmore, the non-profit organization Young Women of Purpose (YWOP)/Young Men of Purpose (YMOP) has launched the Realise, Embrace, Achieve Your Purpose (REAP) Women Entrepreneurship Project 2024. This initiative aims to empower thirty female entrepreneurs through entrepreneurship training, business coaching, mentoring, and financial support. With the goal of equipping participants with the skills to start or formalize their businesses, the project has garnered support from the PriceSmart Foundation and has been recognized as a valuable contributor to the development of the local micro, small, and medium-sized enterprise (MSME) sector.
Empowering Female Entrepreneurs through Training and Support
The REAP Women Entrepreneurship Project 2024 offers a comprehensive program that focuses on entrepreneurship and business management, marketing for small businesses, accounting for small businesses, and health and wellness for entrepreneurs. Founder and Executive Director of YWOP/YMOP, Lanisia Rhoden, highlighted that the participants will also learn how to create a model canvas for their businesses and how to pitch for grant funding. Additionally, they will benefit from workshops provided by agencies and organizations such as the Companies Office of Jamaica, the Jamaica Intellectual Property Office (JIPO), and Vision 2030 Jamaica, among others, that support entrepreneurial development in the country.
Business Coaching and Mentorship for Long-Term Success
Beyond the training and workshops, the entrepreneurs in the REAP Women Entrepreneurship Project 2024 will also receive ongoing business coaching and mentorship. This support system will play a crucial role in guiding the participants through the challenges of starting and growing a business. By connecting them with experienced professionals and industry experts, the project aims to provide the necessary guidance and support to ensure the long-term success of the entrepreneurs.
The PriceSmart Foundation’s Commitment to Community Development
The PriceSmart Foundation, which is funding the REAP Women Entrepreneurship Project 2024, is dedicated to supporting community development in Jamaica. Dr. Bridgette Barrett, a consultant for the PriceSmart Foundation, emphasized that the organization’s intention is to transform lives and communities by investing in youth development, economic opportunities, and community and environmental resilience. While the initial phase of the project focuses on communities surrounding PriceSmart establishments, there are plans to expand the reach of the initiative in the future.
Conclusion:
The REAP Women Entrepreneurship Project 2024 is set to make a significant impact on the lives of thirty female entrepreneurs in Kingston and Portmore. By providing them with the necessary skills, training, and support, the project aims to empower these women to start or formalize their businesses and contribute to the growth of the local economy. With the backing of the PriceSmart Foundation and the commitment of the Young Women of Purpose (YWOP)/Young Men of Purpose (YMOP), this initiative is poised to create a positive ripple effect in the communities it serves. As the project unfolds, it will be interesting to witness the growth and success of these empowered women entrepreneurs and the lasting impact they will have on their communities.