Collaboration is key and like an ecosystem, entrepreneurs need support so they can flourish, says American entrepreneur, Samira Cook-Gaines.

Ms Cook-Gaines was the keynote speaker during the inaugural Women Invigorating the Nation (WIN) Convention on Friday and Saturday at the Grand Pacific Hotel.

The event was organised by the Women Entrepreneurs Business Council (WEBC).

Ms Cook-Gaines led other local and international speakers and leaders on the convention themed Pivoting to Prosperity.

An influential figure, Ms Cook-Gaines whose was recognised by her leadership influence in the White House, is the managing director of Strategic Partnerships for Rising Tide Capital (RTC).

Her company cultivates local, national and international collaborations in major markets and identifies potential partners to share the Rising

Tide Capital model and build the programme capacity of local entrepreneur support organisations.

In that Ms Cook-Gaines is a believer in collaboration.

She said programmes through training and technical assistance was the first part of four stages of professional development, adding that meaningful mentoring in sharing one’s experience can tap into someone’s potential.

“Collaborating and teaming with other entrepreneur to make you better and others as well can build networking opportunities,” she said.

Imrana Jalal. Photo: Laisa Lui

Mentor women to empower
Washington-based Women Rights Activist and Human Rights lawyer, Imrana Jalal, who spoke on gender development, said women needed to build their professional confidence to make gains in entrepreneurship.

“The growth of women entrepreneurship is closely connected to gender equality,” Ms Jalal said.

“Sexual harassment is the hindrance to women’s success in businesses.”

She challenged the participants to invest their time in mentoring other women to allow growth of successful women in business to enable them to contribute to the economy.

The women’s rights activist also advocated on accessing skills creating job opportunity that were needed help in the growth of the economy.

Mark One Apparel Managing Director, Mark Halabe.

Be original: Halabe
Mark One Apparel managing director, Mark Halabe, encouraged entrepreneurs to develop a product that was personalised and had the future to grow and keep the business sustainable.

“Be original in what you need to do and never wait another 50 years for another development”, Mr Halabe said.

“You need to have that drive to succeed no matter what.”

Jenny Seeto.

Be prepared
Investment Fiji chair, successful businesswoman and executive, Jenny Seeto, spoke on how women entrepreneurs needed to embrace challenges to be resilient.

Ms Seeto believed the experiences she gained while growing up in sub-urban Toorak along with values and ethics grounded her to always see the best in others.

“You must enjoy what you do as work is a huge part of our lives,” Ms Seeto said.

“Take the time to sit back and plan what to do as we have to take action in our career paths.

“Be prepared and know your stuff to engage in robust dialogue.”

Feedback: laisa.kabulevu@fijisun.com.fj