Ernst & Young Mozambique, in partnership with New Faces New Voices, held the closing of the first cycle of the "Be Like a Woman" program on Thursday, February 22.

During this first period, "Be Like a Woman" empowered the participants to develop their leadership skills by providing a series of masterclasses with experts from around the world, mentoring and access to a variety of essential resources.

It also helped them to expand their networks and boost the growth of their businesses and professional careers.

The awards and closing event was an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the participants' achievements throughout the program, and its impact on their personal and business development.

During the ceremony, awards were presented to highlight the hard work, innovation and growth achieved by the participants.

Social activist Graça Machel, present at the event, said that "this program is an important step in the right direction to promote gender equality and empower women entrepreneurs as well as professionals in Mozambique".

"I feel motivated and inspired by the dedication and positive impact these women have on the country's development. I want to see each of them represented in various sectors, with a sense of belonging to Mozambique," said the founder of the Graça Machel Trust.

Graça Machel also highlighted the need for greater representation of women in leadership on the African continent, assuring that the activism programs she spearheaded will continue to provide support in this direction.

Paulo Reis, Office Manager at EY, highlighted the importance of women's economic empowerment for sustainable and inclusive growth in Mozambique. "We are extremely proud of the results achieved in this first cycle of the 'Be Like a Woman' program," he said, noting that throughout the program "the participants demonstrated incredible commitment, determination and talent."

For Alcinda Licussa, Human Resources Manager at Ecobank and winner of the first edition of Be Like a Woman, "This is not only a personal milestone, but also a call to action".

"We must continue to work tirelessly to create a more inclusive and equitable business environment for women in Mozambique. Together, we can achieve great things and inspire future generations of women leaders," said Alcinda Licussa,

Ernst & Young Mozambique and New Faces New Voices are committed to continuing their collaboration to accelerate gender equality and the economic empowerment of women entrepreneurs and professionals in Mozambique.