The Entrepreneurship Week in Equatorial Guinea, organized by the U.S. Embassy and YALI Equatorial Guinea, has emphasized collaboration with local initiatives as a cornerstone of its success. The main event, scheduled for November 30th at the French Cultural Center starting at 10 AM, focuses on empowering the country’s youth. In partnership with the YALI-EG Association and the French Institute of Equatorial Guinea, the embassy has worked closely with local organizations such as SESVA Initiative, Dreams Hub, Mozart Music School, and others to develop impactful workshops and panels covering various aspects of entrepreneurship, leaving a meaningful imprint on the community.
Equatorial Guinea: Afri Mall, 7,526 square meters of luxury and convenience for business in Malabo
One of these notable events was the Transformational Leadership Workshop, held on November 23 at the Afri Mall Shopping Center, led by Óscar A. Nchaso Bekari, founder of Dreams HUB, and President of YALI Equatorial Guinea. This workshop provided not only practical knowledge but also a space for young people to develop key skills for launching and managing businesses. “The financial future of Africa does not depend solely on external resources, but on the ability of our youth to lead change,” Nchaso emphasized, highlighting the critical role of local initiatives.
The collaboration between the U.S. Embassy and local actors has allowed for a maximization of the impact of Entrepreneurship Week. Additionally, the schedule includes a panel on artistic entrepreneurship, which will take place on November 25, featuring local cultural leaders. These activities not only foster economic development but also promote the integration of community perspectives in solving social problems, from education to sustainability.
The success of these initiatives demonstrates the importance of synergies between international and local organizations. Dreams HUB (AfriLabs member), with its focus on mentoring and global connections, has facilitated access for young participants to essential support networks and funding to transform their ideas into viable businesses. The Young African Leaders Initiative Equatorial Guinea (YALI-EG) Association is playing a key role in organizing this event, further solidifying its commitment to youth development. Community leaders such as Sese Site (SESVA), Nelida Karr (Mozart Music School), and Oscar Nchaso are some of the notable alumni of the YALI network in Equatorial Guinea and fellows of the Mandela Washington Fellowship program.
In a country with high economic growth potential and a young population eager to embark on entrepreneurial ventures, the collaboration between international and local actors is driving real change. Entrepreneurship Week not only provides practical tools but also strengthens the capacity of local communities to lead the economic and social progress of Equatorial Guinea.
