LiYFE Project Empowers Young Female Entrepreneurs with Awarding Ceremony

The Lifting up Young Female Entrepreneurs (LiYFE) project, a collaborative initiative between Debre Markos University, Bahir Dar University, Injibara University (Ethiopia), and Indiana University (USA), funded by the U.S. Embassy in Ethiopia, has successfully concluded its first awarding ceremony at Debre Markos University. This impactful project is dedicated to empowering young female innovators and entrepreneurs in the Debre Markos-Bahir Dar corridor, enabling them to transform their ideas into thriving businesses.

Awarding Ceremony Highlights

On November 28, 2024, the LiYFE project recognized the top 18 finalists from Debre Markos University and Injibara University during a grand awarding ceremony. These remarkable young women were awarded startup equipment to support the launch of their innovative businesses. The event was a celebration of their hard work, creativity, and determination.

The awarding ceremony for the 9 best finalist businesses from Bahir Dar University will take place in the near future, completing the project’s mission of empowering young female entrepreneurs across the region.

Voices of Appreciation

Participants expressed their gratitude for the transformative impact of the LiYFE project. They highlighted how the initiative has provided them not only with essential resources but also the confidence and knowledge to start and grow their businesses.

Attendees, including university officials, stakeholders, and representatives from the U.S. Embassy, commended the LiYFE project as a significant milestone in fostering entrepreneurship and innovation among young women.

University leaders and stakeholders emphasized the importance of the project in enhancing economic development, strengthening the project experience, and inspiring the next generation of female entrepreneurs.

The Ceremony in Detail

The event was attended by:

• Officials from Debre Markos University, Bahir Dar University, Injibara University, and Indiana University.
• Representatives from the U.S. Embassy in Ethiopia.
• Senior academicians, researchers, think tank teams, and financial institutions.
• The ceremony was filled with inspiring speeches, participant success stories, and a shared vision for empowering women to contribute to economic growth and innovation in Ethiopia.

Looking Ahead

The LiYFE project continues to make strides in creating opportunities for young women in the region. While the first awarding ceremony at Debre Markos University was a resounding success, the excitement now shifts to the upcoming awarding ceremony at Bahir Dar University, where the 9 best finalist businesses will be recognized.

About the LiYFE Project

The Lifting up Young Female Entrepreneurs (LiYFE) project is a collaborative effort that aims to empower young women by providing them with the resources, training, and support needed to turn their entrepreneurial ideas into reality. By bridging the gap between opportunity and innovation, LiYFE is fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and driving economic growth.

A Bright Future for Female Entrepreneurs

The LiYFE project serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, proving that with the right support, young women can achieve remarkable success. Debre Markos University is proud to be part of this transformative initiative and will continue to champion efforts that empower its students and the broader community at large.