OSITA RICH
Empowering Rural Women Entrepreneurs: The Impact of Ifedayo Durosinmi-Etti and AGS Tribe
Nigeria’s entrepreneurial landscape is flourishing, with women playing a pivotal role in its growth. However, rural women often face barriers to accessing resources, networks, and funding to build and sustain their businesses. Enter Ifedayo Durosinmi-Etti, a social entrepreneur and founder of AGS Tribe, a community that empowers Nigerian women through access to grants, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Through AGS Tribe, Ifedayo has created a support system that empowers rural women entrepreneurs, promoting financial independence and economic growth in underserved communities.
Background and Inspiration
Ifedayo Durosinmi-Etti’s journey into social entrepreneurship was driven by her passion for women’s empowerment and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by women in business. With a background in finance and business development, she recognized the need to create a supportive environment for female entrepreneurs in Nigeria, particularly those in rural areas. In 2018, she founded AGS Tribe with the mission to provide women entrepreneurs with access to the resources they need to succeed, from funding opportunities to business education and mentorship.
Core Initiatives of AGS Tribe
AGS Tribe offers a range of programs that provide Nigerian women with essential resources, knowledge, and support for business success. Core initiatives include:
- Grants and Funding Opportunities: AGS Tribe connects members with information on available grants, loans, and venture capital, enabling female entrepreneurs to secure funding and expand their businesses.
- Mentorship and Business Training: The platform offers mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and business leaders, as well as training workshops on business management, financial literacy, and leadership.
- Networking and Collaboration: Through AGS Tribe, women can network with like-minded entrepreneurs and industry experts, creating opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Achievements and Recognition
Ifedayo’s work through AGS Tribe has earned her significant recognition for her contributions to women’s economic empowerment. Some notable achievements include:
- Forbes Africa 30 Under 30: Ifedayo was featured on Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30 list, recognizing her impact on social entrepreneurship and her dedication to empowering Nigerian women.
- 2020 Global Good Fund Fellow: This fellowship celebrated her efforts in fostering economic empowerment for Nigerian women through the programs and resources offered by AGS Tribe.
- Empowering Over 1000 Female Entrepreneurs: AGS Tribe has provided grants, mentorship, and business resources to over 1,000 Nigerian women, helping them establish and grow their businesses.
Challenges and Resilience
Ifedayo faced challenges in creating AGS Tribe, including limited resources, logistical difficulties in reaching rural women, and cultural attitudes that limit women’s business opportunities. Despite these hurdles, her resilience and commitment to her mission enabled her to overcome these challenges. She has continued to expand AGS Tribe’s reach, bringing more resources and support to women entrepreneurs in underserved areas.
Impact on Nigerian Women and Communities
AGS Tribe has made a profound impact on Nigerian women and their communities by promoting economic independence and supporting female entrepreneurs. Through access to funding, mentorship, and business training, AGS Tribe has empowered women to build successful businesses, support their families, and contribute to local economic growth. The initiative has also fostered a culture of collaboration and support among Nigerian women, inspiring them to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams and make a positive impact on their communities.
A Vision for the Future
Ifedayo envisions a future where Nigerian women have equal access to opportunities and resources to thrive in business. She plans to expand AGS Tribe’s programs to reach more regions in Nigeria, including more remote areas, and introduce additional services that address specific challenges faced by rural women entrepreneurs. Her goal is to create a Nigeria where women’s contributions to economic growth and social development are fully recognized and supported.
Conclusion
Ifedayo Durosinmi-Etti’s work with AGS Tribe is an inspiring example of the power of community and support in fostering women’s entrepreneurship. By providing grants, mentorship, and a strong support network, she has empowered countless Nigerian women to achieve their business goals and contribute to Nigeria’s economy. Ifedayo’s journey serves as a testament to the positive impact that one individual can have in creating a brighter, more equitable future for women and communities across Nigeria.
