Panel Discussion Hosted by the Australian High Commission

In celebration of International Women’s Day, the Australian High Commission in Mauritius partnered with the Charles Telfair Centre, the Association Mauricienne des Femmes Chefs d’Entreprises (AMFCE), and The Talent Factory to host a dynamic panel discussion titled « Breaking Barriers: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs through Technology, Finance, and Market Access » on Friday 28 March 2025.

The event gathered esteemed speakers and participants from various sectors to address the crucial role of technology and finance in fostering the growth of women-led enterprises. The panel featured accomplished women entrepreneurs – Aisha Allee (Founder, Blast BCW), Sameera Chattun Koyratty (CEO, Beach & Sportswear Ltd), Georgina Ragaven (Founder & CEO, Star Conexxions), and industry specialists – Ravin Dajee (CEO, Absa Mauritius) and Nirmala Jeetah (Shetrades Initiative, Economic Development Board) – who shared their insights and experiences on overcoming challenges in the business landscape.

Speaking at the opening of the panel discussion, Australia’s High Commissioner to Mauritius, HE Ms Kate Chamley said: “We believe that empowering women entrepreneurs is essential to driving economic growth and innovation. Today’s discussion is an important step towards breaking down barriers and creating equal opportunities for women in business.”

For the President of the Association Mauricienne des Femmes Chefs d’Entreprises (AMFCE), Mrs Shabnam Esmael:

“A woman’s inner strength and outward confidence are the cornerstones of a thriving ecosystem where she rises and leads. Through capacity building, mentorship, access to finance, challenging gender biases, and redefining her role in society, we are not just integrating her into the economy—we are reshaping the future of a Nation. »

The panellists engaged in fruitful discussions on topics such as access to funding, leveraging technology for business growth, and creating supportive networks for women entrepreneurs. The interactive session allowed audience members to ask questions and share their experiences, fostering a collaborative atmosphere.

Commenting on the panel discussion, the Head of the Charles Telfair Centre, Dr Myriam Blin who was also the moderator of the discussion said:

« When women entrepreneurs gain access to finance, technology, and markets, they don’t just catch up, they break through. Innovation-driven businesses erase the gender gap in funding, and when women are provided the right opportunities, women-led enterprises can scale, create further jobs, and drive economic growth. »

Earlier the same day, students from Curtin Mauritius and the African Leadership College participated in a speed networking activity where they had the opportunity to exchange with local entrepreneurs and learn about their experiences and insights in entrepreneurship.

“Every barrier broken by a woman entrepreneur is a blueprint for the next generation. Empowerment is not just about providing opportunities, but about dismantling systemic barriers that have historically held women back. Technology, financial access, and robust networks are the keys to unlocking the extraordinary potential of women entrepreneurs. By creating spaces for dialogue, mentorship, and collaboration, we can transform individual ambitions into collective economic progress,” said the Director of The Talent Factory, Mrs Marie Noelle Elissac-Foy who moderated the speed networking activity.

The partnership between the Australian High Commission and local organisations such as the Charles Telfair Centre, the Association Mauricienne des Femmes Chefs d’Entreprises (AMFCE), and The Talent Factory underscores the importance of international collaboration in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 5: Gender Equality. By providing a platform for dialogue and sharing of resources, the event inspired and equipped women entrepreneurs with the tools they need for success.

The Australian High Commission looks forward to continuing its support for initiatives that empower women and promote economic development in Mauritius and the broader region.