On Thursday, June 12, Ernst & Young (EY) Mozambique, in partnership with the New Faces New Voices (NFNV) network, held the awards ceremony for the participants in the 2nd edition of the 'Be Like a Woman' program, an initiative that has been transforming the female entrepreneurial ecosystem in Mozambique.

The end of this edition was marked by two distinct moments: the closing event with certification of the 57 participants, on June 5, at the Port of Maputo Gallery; and the awards ceremony, which took place at the BCI PRIVATE premises in Maputo. Both events were attended by various personalities, including participants, mentors and institutional partners.

Over the course of nine months, the program trained 57 women, including entrepreneurs, women in the corporate world and social entrepreneurs.

The focus was on developing leadership, business management and innovation skills through a series of themed workshops, mentoring sessions, networking and access to strategic tools.

This second edition stood out for its integrated approach, which combined personal and business leadership, professional ethics and the use of Artificial Intelligence in business transformation.

Paulo Reis, Office Manager Partner and Assurance Leader at EY Mozambique, stressed the strategic importance of the program.

"Women's economic empowerment is essential for building a more prosperous and inclusive country, these 57 women are true agents of change.

What impressed me most about this edition was the quality of the participants who are already in leadership positions. Each one brought a unique vision and inspiring determination," he said.

During the ceremony, 20 women were recognized for their performance, involvement and progress throughout the programme. For Tânia Saranga, president of New Faces New Voices Mozambique, this distinction represents more than individual merit.

"Our commitment is to ensure that, at the end of each edition, the knowledge acquired is replicated in the social context of each of the participants, on a personal, professional and community level," she said.

One of the highlights of the event was the 'Awards & Coronation' of the four winners of this edition. The participants were assessed by an independent jury, who analyzed their active participation, the results of the mentoring and challenges proposed, and above all their commitment to their personal and professional growth and positive impact on their community.

Dirce Vicente, founder and director of Agri Impact, was the first runner-up.

"My project is dedicated to agriculture and its mission is to empower young women and women producers by promoting access to the agricultural market. The Be Like a Woman program has brought new tools that have strengthened and expanded our activities," she said, visibly moved as she received the award.

Be Like a Woman reaffirms its commitment to strengthening women's representation and leadership at all levels, promoting gender equality, boosting women's economic empowerment in Mozambique, and expanding the social impact in future editions of the program.