She-Preneurs Bus Tour Launch in Dominica turns out huge success

The She-Preneurs Stop and Shop 'Hop On Hop Off' tour in Dominica got off to an exciting start on March 7, 2024. The Government of Dominica, in collaboration with the Build Back Equal Project, launched this initiative to increase market access for women and youth entrepreneurs on the occasion of International Women's Day.

In sync with the UN theme "Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress," the 2024 initiative is all about lifting up women-owned Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

During the launch event, Housing Minister Melissa Skerrit said that the Government was excited to launch the ShePreneurs Stop & Shop Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour and said that the initiative strives to empower women entrepreneurs while piloting investment in transportation solutions. She also remarked that the government's goal is to Go Green Bus for better city connectivity while fostering a resilient, vibrant and sustainable Roseau. The event also marks a significant step in promoting inclusivity and diversity among the entrepreneurial community. Centred around capital city Roseau and northern town of Portsmouth, the tour links cruise ship visitors and other customers to directly access women, including women from the indigenous Kalinago and People living with Disabilities communities who own businesses selling craft, food, jewellery and body essential products; all promoting Dominica's rich culture.

UN Women Caribbean Representative Tonni Brodber was delighted to participate in the launch with President of the Commonwealth of Dominica Sylvanie Burton; Melissa Poponne-Skerrit - Minister of Housing and Urban Development; Ministry of Social & Community Development, Housing and Gender Affairs Dr Cassandra Williams, Minister of State with special responsibility for Gender Affairs High Commission of Canada in Barbados and the OECS Head of Cooperation Abebech Assefa.

[embed]https://twitter.com/unwomencarib/status/1766201102595223906[/embed]

The initiative is the first of its kind in the Eastern Caribbean and will run until March 11. It recognizes and features inspiring women entrepreneurs in Dominica and provides the opportunity to visit selected women-led businesses that are making strides in the country.

The entrepreneurs visited the Dominica State House, which featured various aspects of the Kalinago culture through dance, food and artisanal craftwork. The last stop on the launch day was at Zeb Kweyol, which hosts various products for local businesses, including those of Eclat Nova Luxuries, Jaydee's Naturals and Bee Natural.