DAY 3
Theme: INCLUSION -DARE2ASPIRE
JIT Capital conducted a comprehensive 1 hour and 30-minute session on financial inclusion, covering topics such as financial management, microfinance opportunities, and alternative funding sources. The goal was to provide attendees with essential financial knowledge necessary for their entrepreneurial endeavors.
Managing Director's Address:
Mr. Francis Stevens George, the Managing Director of Innovation SL and Global Entrepreneurship Network- Sierra Leone, delivered a keynote address focusing on the significant role of entrepreneurship in empowering women. His insights set the stage for an event aimed at unlocking the potential of female entrepreneurs.
Panel Discussion - "How to Monetize Your Passion"
The panel discussion featured accomplished women who had successfully transformed their passions into profitable businesses. They shared their insights and experiences with the audience. The panel was moderated by Yasmin Metz Johnson, the creator of Yasmin Tells, the founder of Tells Trips and Studio Femi, and the director at Mama Lu's Kitchen. The panelists included Madam Mabel Ironn-Sky Turay, owner and CEO of Orkusu Organic Herbal Teas and owner and director of Reunion Freetown, Madam Miatta Marke, co-owner and head chef at Cole Street Restaurant, Mrs. Hawa Turay, Sierra Leone's first representative to Ms. Universe and CEO of Hawawa Model Management and Hawawa Boutique, and Madam Latoya Garber, the CEO of Toya's Creation, Leone Luxe, and Luxe Assist SL.
Panelist Contributions to the Discussion:
Yasmin Metz Johnson inquired about the speakers' business inspiration, particularly highlighting their transition from legal backgrounds to entrepreneurship.
Hawa Turay, after unexpectedly winning Miss Universe in 2016, recognized the untapped potential of Sierra Leone's pageantry and modeling industry. She established Hawa Model Management and Fashion Consultancy to provide training and support for models in the country.
Miatta Marke, as a chief chef, emphasized the challenge of balancing a creative mindset with an organized business structure. She stressed the importance of understanding the business demographic and regularly evaluating strengths and weaknesses to foster a structured business.
Mabel Ironn-Sky Turay shared her journey from growing up without her family to becoming the owner and CEO of Orkusu Organic Herbal Teas. Her passion for entrepreneurship emerged after being introduced to it by Mr. Francis Stevens George. Her exploration led her to discover the potential of the herbal tea market and venture into the business.
Latoya Garber, drawing inspiration from her family, began selling her lunch in school and eventually established Toya's Creation, Leone Luxe, and Luxe Assist SL by strategically adding value to her business.
Each panelist shared personal stories of turning passion into successful businesses, providing valuable insights into the entrepreneurial journey. The discussion emphasized the importance of authenticity and perseverance in business. The audience actively participated, asking questions and seeking advice, creating a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere.