Young Entrepreneurs Forum Ignites New Possibilities

From lef to the right Prime Minister, Amb. Bisa Williams

Amb. Williams with Participants during Breakout Sessions

On October 12-13, Embassy Niamey brought together aspiring young professionals and business leaders from Niger for the Young Entrepreneurs Forum. 

Special guest speakers Hama Amadou, Speaker of the National Assembly, and Prime Minister Brigi Rafini were also present with Ambassador Williams to open and close two dynamic days of mentoring of young entrepreneurs, networking among professionals, and inspiring new and creative business possibilities.

With their diverse backgrounds covering all areas of Niger’s economy, discussions among the group of 200 professionals highlighted themes vital to invigorating Niger’s business climate and maximizing opportunities for growth.  Separate finance, management, marketing, and planning sessions capitalized on the expertise of panelists and mentors, while breakout sessions allowed mentors and young entrepreneurs to connect and find new synergies.ALSO:  Story   The Forum also gave participants a platform for direct conversations with members of the government and allowed unique interaction across sectors.  As connections between business, youth, development, and government were reinforced, the goals and aspirations of Niger’s next generation of entrepreneurs took shape.

The Forum also included the official launch of the Young Entrepreneurs Business Contest, an initiative awarding cash prizes and other incentives for the best design in a new enterprise.  Details on the contest and the application form can be found here.