Alibaba.com aims to boost gender equality in business with a new academy. Starting this fall, 40 women will gain vital skills and networking opportunities.
Michela Rubegni, Alibaba.com's Marketing Director for Europe, recently shared their mission to empower women in the business arena. The Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), launched as part of this vision, will offer a 10-week program featuring mentorship and networking opportunities. Partnering with notable non-profits and organizations, AWE aims to dismantle gender barriers and promote inclusivity.
Recent research highlights the challenges women entrepreneurs face in Europe, with a shocking 94% citing gender stereotypes as a significant obstacle. This survey sets the stage for why initiatives like AWE are critical. Alibaba.com's effort to understand and address these issues is evident through their detailed survey of 751 women across Germany, Italy, and France.
The AWE will start in the fall with 40 participants selected through an application process closing in late June 2024. The program promises a robust curriculum aimed at fostering skills and creating opportunities in one of the world’s largest B2B marketplaces, paving the way for a more equitable business landscape.
As Rubegni puts it, "By giving women the tools and knowledge to empower themselves, we believe that we can ultimately contribute to a more inclusive and prosperous global economy." This statement not only underscores Alibaba's commitment but also serves as a call to potential participants and supporters of the program.
Will Alibaba's new program be a game-changer?
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