Reflections from Beyond Barriers 2024: Supporting Women Entrepreneurs in New Delhi, India
I recently returned from the Beyond Barriers 2024 event in Delhi, where I represented the Cal State Fullerton Center for Entrepreneurship at a truly inspiring gathering. This event marked the culmination of a year-long collaboration with Yuukke, an organization committed to empowering women through entrepreneurship. For the past year, women from various backgrounds and regions across India have participated in an intensive program focused on building and growing their businesses.
Being part of this event was incredibly humbling and a reminder of why I’m so passionate about my work. Beyond Barriers wasn’t just a celebration; it was a powerful testament to the strength and resilience of women entrepreneurs.
The Power of Community and Empowerment
From the moment I arrived, the energy was palpable. The event was filled with women who had chosen to take control of their lives through entrepreneurship. When I gave the opening remarks, I shared the mission of the Center for Entrepreneurship and our commitment to supporting women who are striving to make a difference, not only in their own lives but in the lives of those around them.
For me, it’s always been about more than business. It’s about empowerment, confidence, and helping people discover their own potential. Seeing how these women had transformed was incredibly rewarding and reinforced my belief in the importance of community and support in entrepreneurship.
Demo Day: Stories of Resilience, Impact, and Innovation
The heart of the event was Demo Day, where participants presented their business ideas and shared the stories behind them. Every single woman I spoke with had a unique story, filled with challenges they had overcome to turn their ideas into reality. The pride and sense of accomplishment they felt were contagious, and I was reminded of the power of resilience.
Some of the moments that stood out to me included:
- Personal Journeys of Strength: Many of these women had faced personal hardships, but rather than giving up, they had chosen to turn those experiences into strengths. They demonstrated resilience in its purest form.
- Commitment to Community: These entrepreneurs weren’t just building businesses; they were making a difference in their communities, creating jobs, and supporting local artisans. Hearing them speak about their vision and their impact was moving.
- Innovative Approaches to Business: From using traditional crafts to tech-based solutions, the creativity and innovation they showcased were inspiring. It was a reminder that entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool for change.
Each presentation reinforced my commitment to supporting initiatives like this. Seeing these women succeed felt like a shared victory, and I left Demo Day filled with hope for what they’ll accomplish in the future.
Leading a Masterclass on Entrepreneurship
One of my contributions to the event was leading a masterclass on entrepreneurship. I wanted to share the practical lessons I’ve learned over the years and, more importantly, encourage these women to trust their instincts and believe in their own strength.
During the masterclass, I focused on:
- The Courage to Begin: Taking that first step is often the hardest part, especially when the path is filled with uncertainty. I shared how essential it is to trust the process and to view challenges as part of the journey.
- Crafting a Personal Brand Story: I spoke about the power of an authentic brand story. Each of these women has a unique journey and a personal why that drives them. I wanted to help them see how those stories could be a powerful part of their brand.
- Understanding Market Needs: I emphasized the importance of knowing their audience and tailoring their products to meet real needs. This is especially critical for entrepreneurs who want to make a social impact.
The participants engaged actively, asking thoughtful questions and sharing their own insights. Seeing their enthusiasm and desire to learn was incredibly rewarding, and I left the session with a renewed appreciation for the importance of sharing knowledge and experiences.
Looking Forward: A Vision for Growth and Impact
Reflecting on Beyond Barriers 2024, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such an impactful event. It’s reinforced my commitment to the work we’re doing with the CSUF Center for Entrepreneurship and to expanding our reach.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to focus on a few key areas:
- Storytelling and Marketing: I believe that helping these women develop storytelling and marketing skills will empower them to scale their businesses and reach wider audiences.
- Expanding to More Regions: This experience has inspired me to think about how we can extend this program to more regions, making resources and support available to women who may not have access otherwise.
Attending Beyond Barriers reminded me why I love what I do. It’s not just about business; it’s about helping people find their voice, realize their potential, and make a lasting impact. I look forward to continuing this work and supporting these remarkable women as they break down barriers and pave the way for others.
When we invest in people—especially women—we invest in a better future. I’m honored to be part of that journey.