The Institute for Economic Empowerment of Women.

PTB 2009 Student Featured in Reuters Article

May 21st, 2009 Posted by admin

Afghan women entrepreneurs say just need investors

By Emma Graham-Harrison

KABUL, May 20 (Reuters) - Sixty Afghan women entrepreneurs, touting ventures ranging from financial services to potato chips and school uniform, on Wednesday launched their hunt for start-up funding to shake up the male-dominated economy.

In a country where many women still do not show their face beyond the confines of their own homes, the businesswomen gathered at Kabul’s Intercontinental hotel for an investor fair and graduation ceremony knew they were up against tough odds.

“The most serious of our problems is being young, and women,” said 23 year-old Roqia Sajadi, who is seeking $15,000 to launch her Afghan Vision financial services company.

But they have done their market research, are sure they have found a niche and have lined up two possible clients already.

“Afghanistan can’t believe in us, and can’t accept us as young businesswomen … but if we have someone to support us, of course we can succeed,” Sajadi said.

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