Female entrepreneurs share business tips with Helena Ribe over high tea
FOURWAYS – International development economist inspires businesswomen at Riversands.
About 20 women from various backgrounds gathered at Riversands Incubation Hub on 11 June for a high tea with Helena Ribe – a former senior economist for the World Bank.
Ribe has dedicated her life to the socio-economic development of women all over the world.
In South Africa for a limited time, Ribe cleared her diary to meet with female entrepreneurs to offer support and encouragement – an experience she said was better than she could have imagined.
Instead of making a presentation, Ribe allowed women to engage and have intimate conversations with her as well as each other.
The seating arrangement on the day was also designed to create a warm and friendly atmosphere by seating guests at one fabulously decorated table with scrumptious treats.
Ribe said, “I enjoy seeing how people develop skills and have a positive [impact] towards changing their lives. It’s also amazing to see [Riversands] gives opportunities to people by opening doors.”
Ribe, who is no stranger to South Africa and Africa as a whole, having managed the World Bank’s programmes of studies, technical assistance and financing in human development in southern and West Africa, added that it’s good to see people making something of themselves even when they come from tough backgrounds.
“I see a lot of optimism as well as challenges, but I’m encouraged by the hopefulness of people in South Africa, particularly women who are making a difference to others’ lives and are strong and resilient,” she said.
Ribe encouraged attendees to be positive and not to blame their past, but rather say, wait a minute, let me take charge and improve myself and others.
Many of the women in attendance said they thoroughly enjoyed interacting with Ribe as well as with each other throughout the afternoon.
Zandile Mabena from Nunnovation, a non-profit organisation based at Riversands which aims to inform, educate and inspire said, “Having an opportunity to engage with women, especially those who share similar interests, is always a pleasure. It was great getting to network with the ladies and share ideas over delicious treats.”
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