When fundraising for women and gender led initiatives we find that the money needs to be chased, the money needs to be convinced, the money needs to be influenced and the money needs to be aligned to our values. We will do all these things but we will not lose our integrity.
The most significant learning for me this year: In March 8th 2024 International women's day I lost my Father. I wondered how I would in future celebrate this day whilst harbouring sad thoughts. However as I continue to heal and reflect on this, I recognise that my Father raised three girls without fear or favour. He taught us to pursue our passions and to stand up for ourselves.
He guided our path through leading by example. His commitment to publishing the African story and maintaining our authentic culture through promoting the preservation and pride of our indigenous languages. In a world that seeks to conform to the most dominant culture of the day, he did this even though he was bullied and intimidated. Although this approach produced tremendous rewards it came at a great personal sacrifice that few would be willing to make, securing his place amongst the Greats.
I draw parallels to my own experience. Raising capital for underserved and underestimated women entrepreneurs continues to be tough but rewarding when we recognise that investing in women delivers a triple impact- in the business, in the home and in the community. The nurturing aspect of women makes this organically possible. Good things take time and systemic change happens incrementally and intentionally.
So investing in our future women leaders to generate a reasonable return with a sustainable purpose will continue to be our WHY.
Another big lesson us that one person can make a difference:If you are the one person that doesn't give up on a cause because it is hard you encourage others to keep tryingIf you are one person that believes capital doesn't need to be overpriced due to risk misconception you attract capital that believes in this tooIf you are the one person that knows our credit assessment process can be more responsive to the needs of early growth stage enterprises you attract partners willing to explore possibilitiesIf you are the person that sees women deserve a seat at the decision making table you are prompted to design your own tableYou can be the one person that effects change and triggers a movement.
