The GTPA works with women entrepreneurs to build capacity and provide access to global networks
The GTPA works with women entrepreneurs to build capacity and provide access to global networks. As part of our ongoing mentoring support we recently visited two of our women entrepreneurs in Nepal to understand their export development and gain greater understanding of the challenges for future growth. The GTPA was delighted to be joined by Annette Ssemuwemba, Deputy Executive Director from the EIF Programme.
Our first site visit was with Shanta Koirala from Kanchanjangha Tea Estate and Research Centre. Kanchanjangha Tea Estate and Research Centre produces tea at very high altitudes, resulting in an exceptional quality product with a unique aroma. They are the first organic-certified tea producers in Nepal and are now expanding their export markets to the United States, Canada, China, Japan, Korea, Europe, Germany, France and the Middle East.
Our second site visit was with Shobha Gurung from Himalayan Decor Rugs. Himalayan Decor Rugs produces hand-knotted carpets in Nepal, using fine wool, silk, and natural plant fibres in unique, one-off designs. They exporting across Europe and North America.
A key outcome for me spending time with Shanta and Shoba was the importance for women entrepreneurs, particularly from countries in South Asia is the need for greater access for women entrepreneurs to specific training resources and toolkits to assist business owners to expand into international markets but most importantly whilst training is one element the best support for women entrepreneurs going forward is the ability to access an ongoing mentoring network that can provide women entrepreneurs to continual support to assist them as they embark and or expand their international journey as well as the ability to access a trusted global network to support and advance the engagement of women entrepreneurs in global trade.
The GTPA is working on a number of initiatives supporting women entrepreneurs. Watch this space and find out more by subscribing to our database at: www.gtpalliance.com