The Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) programme continues to provide women entrepreneurs with access to resources and builds a community and support for each other through an exchange of information and experiences, said Director of Enterprise Development (Darussalam Enterprise) at the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB) Norlela Suhailee.
She said this during the graduation ceremony for 27 women entrepreneurs who completed the two-month programme under AWE Cohort 4, at a restaurant yesterday.
She added, “At the BEDB, we have seen a steady increase in participation of women in our micro, small and medium enterprise programmes and initiatives. This is evident from the attendance and responses we have been receiving through various events and activities. A survey on our capacity building initiatives that we conducted last year indicated that around 57 per cent of the respondents was represented by women.”
Since the launching of Cohort 4 in October 2024, she shared, “The programme also continues to serve as a great platform for our women entrepreneurs to harness their talents in business and unlock their full potential with bright and unique ideas.”
The top three participants were awarded USD3,000 each in seed funding to support their business growth. The participants were Ezza Anwar from As-Sehha Group, producing Brunei’s first pasteurised eggs; Nabilah Azahari from Atelier Anari, developing artisanal and handcrafted perfumes, inspired by the life and culture in Brunei; and Nur Amilah Fadhlina binti Hamdan from Makeup by Fadhlina, specialising in bridal and event make-up. The recipients demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovation and business potential during the programme. The top three were chosen during the pitching day in December 2024, where 22 of 27 participants pitched their business ideas to a panel of judges.
The AWE programme, launched in October 2024, saw 27 aspiring women entrepreneurs selected from 104 applicants based on their business potential and commitment to growth. The participants underwent comprehensive training throughout the programme.
Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy (Economy) Dato Seri Paduka Haji Khairuddin bin Haji Abdul Hamid, who is also BEDB Co-Deputy Chairperson, was the guest of honour. – James Kon
