G20 EMPOWER and the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) Introduce WEPmentor
In a groundbreaking effort to reshape global mentorship for women in business, G20 EMPOWER, in partnership with the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP), has unveiled WEPmentor. This cutting-edge digital resource made its debut during the G20 EMPOWER summit event in Gandhinagar on August 1, 2023, marking a significant milestone during India’s G20 Presidency.
WEPmentor stands as a technological breakthrough and a powerful commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs across G20 member nations. This initiative enjoys robust support from the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India. Custom-tailored to offer scalable and personalized mentorship opportunities, WEPmentor aims to strengthen the economic engagement of women entrepreneurs, whether they are just starting or are established in their businesses.
Bridging Global Mentorship Gaps
The G20 EMPOWER WEP Mentorship initiative signifies a dedication to an inclusive and equitable future. By bridging existing gaps, it aligns with the global aspirations of women entrepreneurs.
WEPmentor offers four distinct mentorship programs, catering to the unique needs of women entrepreneurs. These encompass personalized mentoring sessions, organization-led mentorship, skill-specific workshops, and Peer-to-Peer (P2P) initiatives. Additionally, it collaborates with academic institutions, industry associations, and other influential resources to provide a comprehensive suite of mentorship resources.
Harnessing Cutting-Edge Technology
A defining feature of WEPmentor is its utilization of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) algorithms to facilitate customized mentor-mentee pairings. An extensive library of educational resources and a vibrant community forum further enhance the platform’s capabilities.
Dr. Sangita Reddy, Chair of G20 EMPOWER and Joint Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals Enterprises, remarked, “We stand on the brink of transformative change, where mentorship becomes a globally accessible tool for women, catalyzing growth, inclusivity, and empowerment.” She also highlighted diverse partnerships with mentorship services, academic bodies, and industry groups, offering mentees a wide array of mentorship choices.
A Beacon of Empowerment
“The launch of the WEP Mentorship Platform marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to promote a robust women entrepreneurial ecosystem in India,” stated Anna Roy, Mission Director of the Women Entrepreneurship Platform & Senior Adviser at NITI Aayog. She added, “Many women face challenges navigating their entrepreneurial journey, often uncertain about where to find professional assistance. A recent study by Microsave Consulting and WEP shows that 74% of women entrepreneurs actively seek mentorship support for their businesses, and those with access to mentorship overwhelmingly report its positive impact on their enterprise growth.”
As women’s economic participation gains increasing importance, WEPmentor emerges as a pivotal tool. “The platform facilitates secure networking and tailored solutions, instrumental in paving the way for their success,” noted Ms. Shaifalika Panda, Chair and Convener of the G20EMPOWER Working Group for Mentorship and Founder CEO of Bansidhar & Ila Panda Foundation. She continued, “WEPmentor fosters mentorship collaborations across geographies, catalyzing broader social and economic growth.”
WEPmentor is backed by the Union Ministry of Women & Child Development and developed in collaboration with the Women’s Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP). Microsave Consulting serves as the knowledge partner, Square Panda is the technology ally, and FICCI functions as the G20 EMPOWER secretariat.
