Celebrating Graduates of the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs

During a reception on April 17, Deputy Chief of Mission Ken Toko and Chris Vassallo Cesareo, President of The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise, and Industry, celebrated participants who graduated from the U.S. Department of State’s Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE). The AWE program provides women entrepreneurs around the world with the knowledge, networks, and access needed to start and scale successful businesses. Two of the participants excelled in pitching their business proposals, winning a competition for $9,000, as the first prize, and $4,000, as a second prize, that they will invest in their businesses.

In 2022 and 2023, the U.S. Embassy in Malta partnered with The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise, and Industry to implement the second and third iteration of this global entrepreneurship program in Malta. AWE supports the U.S. government’s National Strategy on Gender Equity and Equality aimed at advancing women’s economic empowerment globally. Implemented in nearly 100 countries since 2019, AWE has empowered approximately 25,000 women entrepreneurs from around the world, including in Malta.

Mr. Toko and Mr. Vassallo Cesareo presented certificates to the AWE graduates and participants and awarded prizes in seed funds to the winner and runner-up of the business plan pitch competition. In brief remarks, Mr. Toko said, “At the U.S. Embassy, we take pride in collaborating with our partners in Malta to advance the empowerment of women and girls in all their diversity across society, politics, and the economy. On behalf of the U.S. Embassy in Malta and the U.S. Department of State, I would like to congratulate you all. We are proud of your innovation and drive to follow your ambitions.”

In his remarks, Mr. Vassallo Cesareo said, “Our genuine enthusiasm for this project is founded on the widespread benefits it brings, not only to the participants or the business community, but to our society at large. I very much like to quote the United Nations term ‘He for She’ when embarking on solidarity with women to create a bold, visible, and united force for gender equality. The spheres of business and enterprise should not be an exception, but the rule. Together, and with each other to build businesses, raise families, and give back to our communities.”

Addressing the guests, Ms. Rachel Bondi Attard, Head of Media and Communication Strategist said, “I can say with confidence that your determination, resilience, and innovative spirit are the driving forces that will help you move forward, regardless of the obstacles you may encounter. The Malta Chamber is delighted to witness so many talented women completing this program successfully, and we eagerly anticipate seeing you pursue your entrepreneurial ideas with passion and conviction.”