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, honored graduates from the U.S. Department of State's Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE). This program offers women entrepreneurs worldwide the knowledge, networks, and access necessary to launch and grow successful businesses. Two participants excelled in pitching their business proposals, securing $9,000 as the first prize and $4,000 as the second prize to invest in their ventures.
In 2022 and 2023, the U.S. Embassy in Malta collaborated with The Malta Chamber of Commerce to implement this global entrepreneurship program in Malta. AWE aligns with the U.S. government's National Strategy on Gender Equity and Equality aimed at advancing women's economic empowerment globally. Since its inception in 2019, AWE has empowered approximately 25,000 women entrepreneurs across nearly 100 countries.
Mr. Toko and Mr. Vassallo Cesareo presented certificates to AWE graduates and awarded seed funds to winners of the business plan pitch competition. Mr. Toko remarked: “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.”
Mr. Vassallo Cesareo expressed: “Our genuine enthusiasm for this project is founded on the widespread benefits it brings not only to participants or the business community but to our society at large." He emphasized solidarity with women using the United Nations term ‘He for She,’ advocating for gender equality within business spheres.
Addressing guests at the event, Ms. Rachel Bondi Attard from The Malta Chamber 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 obstacles.” She praised participants' achievements and anticipated their future success.