Africa
The women of Africa are sending the world a clear message – they represent the potential of their continent, they stand ready to make progress, and they are poised to lead. Vital Voices listened to the African women in our Global Leadership Network, and is responding with innovative and exciting programs designed to elevate African women as pioneers of economic, political, and social advancement.
Ongoing Initiatives
Africa Businesswomen's Network
The Africa Businesswomen's Network (ABWN) is a partnership between local businesswomen's organizations throughout Africa, Vital Voices Global Partnership and ExxonMobil Foundation. The goal of the ABWN is to build and support a network of businesswomen’s organizations in Africa in order to expand the number of women succeeding as entrepreneurs and leaders in the corporate world; to raise the profile and credibility of women in business; to foster global networking opportunities among businesswomen; and to advocate for policies that expand economic opportunity for women. Read More»
Africa Artisans Export Development
The Vital Voices Women Artisan Product & Business Development Program provides indigenous handcraft women business leaders with product development, management, business development, marketing and communication skills to expand their businesses, create jobs in their communities and achieve a larger share of the international export market for their products. Launched in January 2008, trainings have been held in Ghana, Swaziland, South Africa and Kenya and included artisan women leaders from 14 African countries. Read More »
African Women’s Leadership Initiative
The African Women’s Leadership Initiative sponsored by the ExxonMobil Foundation provides training, mentoring and leadership development opportunities to a cadre of emerging African women leaders. The program will provide these women with the skills they need to succeed as leaders in civil society, government and business sectors in their countries and communities. The Initiative encompasses three tracks: Leveling the Playing Field; Economic Development; and Women’s Leadership in Public Life. Read More»
Vital Voices Leadership & Advocacy Fund
for African Women
With the support of The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Vital Voices is providing small grants to projects, organizations, and/or individuals involved in advocacy related to African women and girls. Advocacy projects focus on causes and issues related to African women and girls. The awards go to individuals and organizations that propose projects focused on advocating for changes in or additions to public policy on community, national, or regional levels.
