What is the Mauritian Association of Women Entrepreneurs ?

The Mauritian Association of Women Entrepreneurs (MAWE), founded in 1986 by Mrs Primrose Obeegadoo, unites women business owners of all cultural, religious and political backgrounds. It is affiliated to and its objectives mirror those of the World Association of Women Entrepreneurs (FCEM).

What are the main objectives of the association?

There are three main objectives. First, it is to bring togetherness among women who have invested in or manage single-handedly or jointly businesses in the manufacturing, service or retail sectors. The second objective is to promote and encourage professional growth and life-long learning among its members. And finally it is to support young women entrepreneurs in their professional development.

What motivated you to become a spokesperson for women?

When I joined MAWE in 1998, I had just created my enterprise. I was motivated because of the possibilities that the association was offering me such as training and information on opportunities in entrepeurneurship and the sharing of experiences. I learnt how to love the association and I am still a member of this association. Today, I want to share what I have managed to learn. I want to help reinforce the capacities of the women who are in charge of enterprises in both the formal and informal sectors. Furthermore, I want to work for more justice in our society.

Do you think women are well accepted by men in the world of business nowadays?

At MAWE we communicate with our male counterparts and we share a positive way of thinking that they welcome. Apart from this, we are known as an economic strength and have seats in bodies such as the Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) and the Mauritius Employers Federation (MEF). Last, but not least, among our partners who are men, supportive members can also be found. The association is also very visible and active within the various institutions of the economy and is often prompted to participate in national debates on issues related to entrepreneurship or gender issues in general. We are also a member of the National Women?s Entrepreneur Council.

What contribution do you think women could bring to a company ?

The feminine sensibility has the effect of making women more ready to make concessions and more receptive to others. Concerning the code of ethics, the MAWE has adopted a charter on good governance and its members are committed to work for fair and more gender-sensitive economic development.

In which field do you think that women could reach top positions easily in Mauritius?

Women entrepreneurship is the only domain where women occupy top positions. We take decisions daily. Otherwise it is very difficult for a woman to reach top positions?