“African women produce up to 65% of the continent’s economic goods, but they represent only 8.5% of non-agricultural jobs. WIA wants to help change this,” explains WIA Founder Aude de Thuin. “By creating a platform that brings together African and international leaders to work on industry-specific roadmaps, our aim is to educate international and pan-African companies about the importance of empowering women to accelerate inclusive growth in Africa. Our goal is to advocate for the dynamic community of female talent in an effort to pave the way for a new governance much needed in the world today.”

The Summit was composed of panel discussions, master classes and collaborative labs that brought together international experts on agriculture, energy, entrepreneurship, finance, nutrition and water.

ENGIE was a sponsor of the ENERGY Lab “How can the energy sector development contribute to a sustainable and equitable African growth and which actions should be taken to reduce energy poverty taking into account the gender dimension.” Bruno Bensasson, CEO Africa, moderated this workshop and delivered the conclusions of this brainstorming session with the members of the WIA club.

A number of women working for ENGIE in Africa participated in the workshops, debates and meet with female African Entrepreneurs:  a mobilizing and inspiring experience, as evidenced by their testimonies.

Graine Soumaya, Legal Counsel ENGIE Northern Africa

“The Women in Africa annual summit was a great experience. Not only did I learn a wealth of knowledge from the speakers, but I also had a chance to connect with inspiring women from all over the world. Most importantly, I have been able to gather strength and courage to stay true to myself and continue pursuing my dreams”.

Tebogo Movundlela, CEO of Aurora Wind Power, South Africa

“Beating the odds: In spite of the traditional negative narrative that is sometimes used to describe the African Continent, WIA showcased the incredible stories of many formidable African women who in spite of their circumstances have created opportunities and organizations that are hugely successful and widely impactful.”

Djamila Benazouz, Director of development and institutional relations ENGIE Algeria

“This event was a qualitative mobilization of female leaders from Africa, France and other countries for the continent of Africa.”

Katia Cheron, Chief HR & HSSE Officer BU Africa

“My takeaway from the WIA meetings: passionate and exciting women, projects that combine personal ambitions and the desire to improve education, health, nutrition, access to energy and the right of all to dream of a better world.”