‘We Lift Expo’ empowering women entrepreneurs

Women entrepreneurs continue to expand business opportunities by showcasing and marketing their products through Guyana’s largest women’s expo, “We Lift”, coordinated by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security.

This year’s event, We Lift 5, is scheduled to take place at the National Aquatic Centre, Liliendaal, from April 11 to 13.

Entrepreneur Annisha Layne Persaud of The Wooden Gallery, who participated in last year’s expo, shared that it was an incredible experience.

“It provided a great platform for me to showcase The Wooden Gallery and connect with other female entrepreneurs. This led me to attend the Barbados Agro-Fest last February, giving my business the opportunity to tap into international markets,” she noted.

The ministry has announced its continued partnership with School of the Nations, and Director of Nations Inc., Pam O’Toole, is encouraging women to attend.

“We’re very happy to continue supporting the We Lift programme. Over the years, we’ve had the joy of working with the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, and contributing to ‘We Lift’ has been one of our greatest privileges. It’s exciting to see the programme outgrowing its previous venues due to its popularity and success. We fully support this vision, spearheaded by Dr. Vindhya Persaud, Minister of Human Services, as she empowers young and aspiring women entrepreneurs by providing them with a space to network, sell their products, and grow their businesses,” she said.

She further noted that Nations Inc. has been involved in training exercises since 2021, and its $5 million contribution is a way of giving back to support women trained under the Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) programme.

“The minister has asked us to showcase more of the work we’ve done under the WIIN programme. In 2024, the focus shifted to more technical and vocational skills training. At this year’s exhibition, attendees will see a tech booth displaying programmes that Nations facilitated last year, including carpentry, plumbing, electrical installation, and welding. Programme managers and women facilitators who trained participants will be present to provide insights. We encourage people to explore what’s available in 2025 and sign up to be part of this wonderful initiative,” O’Toole added.