Celebrating Resilience and Innovation: 3rd Edition of Mkazipreneur Impact Awards 2024
Group photo of the winners at the Mkazipreneur Impact Awards together with Immy and the MC
On
December 18th, 2024, the 3rd Edition of the Mkazipreneur Impact Awards took
center stage at SKYZ Hotel, Naguru. This prestigious event brought together
women entrepreneurs from across Uganda, celebrating their resilience,
innovation, and outstanding contributions to the nation's business landscape.
The awards received an impressive 49 nominations by the deadline of December
2nd, showcasing the remarkable achievements and diversity of women-led
businesses.
The
Mkazipreneur Impact Awards serve as more than a recognition platform; they
spotlight the vital role of women-owned businesses in driving economic growth
and fostering societal change. The event celebrated women entrepreneurs who
have exhibited exceptional courage and perseverance in overcoming challenges
while breaking barriers in their entrepreneurial journeys.
The 2024 awards not only acknowledged individual accomplishments but also created opportunities to inspire and connect women in business. By sharing stories of resilience and innovation, Mkazipreneur reinforced its mission to support and uplift women-led enterprises, demonstrating the transformative power of female entrepreneurship in Uganda.
Objectives
of the 2024 Mkazipreneur Impact Awards
The
awards were designed with the following objectives:
- Honoring Excellence: To
celebrate women entrepreneurs demonstrating exceptional innovation,
leadership, and impact in their businesses.
- Building Community: To
foster a sense of belonging among women entrepreneurs by encouraging them
to share their stories and achievements.
- Creating Opportunities:
To facilitate networking and collaboration among women entrepreneurs for
mutual growth and support.
Expected
Outcomes of the 2024 Mkazipreneur Impact Awards
Through
this initiative, the following outcomes were anticipated:
- Increased Exposure:
Recognition of outstanding women entrepreneurs across Uganda.
- Business Growth: Improved
sales and revenue for women-owned businesses.
- Job Creation: Growth in
annual turnover, leading to increased job opportunities.
- Enhanced Networks:
Expanded access to networks and opportunities for women entrepreneurs.
The
2024 Mkazipreneur Impact Awards honored exceptional women across 10 categories,
acknowledging their dedication and significant contributions to their fields:
- Emerging Young Woman
Entrepreneur: Magezi Elizabeth –
Lither Makeup Artistry
- Most Innovative Business:
Akankwasa Immaculate – Mawhands
- Outstanding Agricultural
Impact: Kobushinge Anitah – Bamwine
Investment Uganda Limited (Win Chicken Halal)
- Outstanding
Community/Social Impact: Sawe Catherine – Sawe
Creations
- Outstanding Environmental
Impact: Caroline Nassuna – Laika African
Store
- Outstanding Woman
Entrepreneur - Central Region:
Flavia Ritah Babirye – Oil Therapy
- Outstanding Woman
Entrepreneur - Eastern Region:
Desire Kirabo – ACESO Women Wellness Center
- Outstanding Woman
Entrepreneur - Northern Region:
Rebecca Akullu – NEWA Farms Ltd
- Outstanding Woman
Entrepreneur - Western Region:
Barbra Amutuhaire – Ukara Mental Health Services
- Use of Technology Impact Award: Sandra Awilli – ShareCARD
The
keynote speaker at the event, Prof. Noeline Kirabo, urged the women
entrepreneurs to take care of their businesses akin to nurturing a child.
“Our
business is an extension of your vision, not the other way around. Nurture it
like a legacy, protect it like a baby, and build it to outlast generations,”
she affirmed.
She
also highlighted several key areas of focus for entrepreneurs, if they are to
have smooth sailing in their business management journey. These included setting
up solid business structures, a sound chain of command, financial management
systems, branding, a good competent team, company policy and so many other
elements for continued growth with feasible assessment areas.
Mkazipreneur
extends heartfelt thanks to all the nominees and winners for their unwavering
dedication to creating positive change and impact. Their inspiring stories
underscore the boundless potential of women entrepreneurs and their capacity to
shape a brighter future.
As we
look ahead, the Mkazipreneur Impact Awards continue to symbolize a commitment
to empowering women entrepreneurs, fostering growth, and celebrating excellence
in Uganda and beyond.
