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NASME Women Lagos Chapter Celebrates International Women’s Day 2019

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The Nigeria Association of Small and Medium Enterprises is the apex Business membership organization (BMO) in Nigeria that was established to co-ordinate the promotion of micro, small and medium enterprises.

All around the world, gender equality advocates are spearheading a discussion around this year’s theme, #balanceforbetter, pressing for a more gender-balanced government participation, workplace and economic empowerment. Different organisations, associations and groups create awareness for a world where women will have equal rights with their male counterparts. NASME Women (Lagos Chapter) was not left out in this year’s celebration as they organised a two day event in honor of the women’s day which took place on the 7th and 11th of March, 2019.

To flag off this year’s women’s day, NASME Women (Lagos chapter) in collaboration with the Association of Nigeria Women Business Network (ANWBN) organized a walk which took place on the 7th of March in all 36 states of the federation simultaneously.

The Women Leader, NASME Lagos, Otunba Gbemi Oduntan, in her speech highlighted the different ways women are striving hard to deliver beyond expectations in all that they do and how they are not equivalently recognized yet for their efforts. She pointed out that the Theme for this year IWD; ‘Balance for Better’ is so apt in demanding an equitable recognition in reward, remuneration and acceptance in all that the womenfolk do, starting from inclusion of Women in the NASME National Council and other Local and National official positions of Service and Leadership across the country.

In her International Women’s Day message, Dr Jumoke Kassim, the PRO of NASME Women listed their focus for this year’s celebration.  She pointed out the fact that women have to work extra, balancing the home front with the office work, just for them to be recognised. She also spoke on the seven point’s agenda charter bill as presented by the Association of Nigerian Women Business Network to the government which includes but not limited to:

  • 40% Inclusion of women in government.
  • Resolving issues of multiple taxation.
  • Patronage of made in Nigeria goods.
  • Ease of access to funds for all women.
  • Implementation of government policies for women in government amongst others.

Day two of the event was tagged “Gender Balance Drives a Better World”. The event was graced by lots of important personals from all works of life including government officials. Mrs. Funmilayo Ibrahim, Dir. Of Cooperatives, represented the Commisssioner for Commerce, Industry & Cooperative; Mrs. Olayinka Oladunjoye, while Mrs. Funmi Blaize, Dir. Of Admin & Human Resources represented the Commissioner for Women & Poverty Alleviation- Mrs. Lola Akande. Mrs. Seriki Bello , Dir. Of Employment, Min of Wealth Creation represented the Commissioner; Mrs. Uzamat Akinbile-Yusuf.

Mr. Solomon Aderoju, the chairman of NASME (Lagos chapter) during his speech as read by Mrs. Victoria Oluwasanya, the Vice President of NASME Lagos pointed out that there is need for better life for women in the society due to their huge contribution to the development and growth in the society. He also said that every woman needs empowerment, care and respect for a better balanced world.

The National President NASME, Prince Degun Adeagbo, in his speech extols the importance and contribution of women to nation building through governance at the Federal and State level, and the micro and macro-economy of the country, especially through various micro and small businesses & manufacturing by the women Team and of course at the home front.

Mrs. Funmilayo Ibrahim, Dir. Of Cooperatives, represented the Commisssioner for Commerce, Industry & Cooperative.

 

Speaking on the first topic, “Let’s Build a Gender Balanced World”. Guest Speaker, Captain Mrs. Bolaji Agbelusi said that Nigeria is really doing well in gender balancing. According to her, in some developed countries, women are still being discriminated in the workplace. They do not receive the same salary as their male counterparts. She connected it to the Nigeria Aviation Industry where there is equal opportunities and expectations for both gender.  Women are now in management positions and they are really doing well.

To further buttress her points, she listed out why the society needs to make gender parity, a priority. This is because a meaningful inclusion of women in decision making will bring effectiveness and productivity in the society. Also, women are good decision makers and great marketers.

According to a survey carried out on about 4,000 companies, which says that companies with women on their board and strategic positions makes as much as 36.5% more profit than those without women.

She ended by saying that until Nigeria create a gender balanced society, she will not improve because women have natural calling for birthing not only physical lives but lives into whatever they do.

Speaking on the second topic “Gender Balance Drives a Better Working World”. Mrs Funke Egbemode (MD, New Telegraph Newspaper) contradicted the popular opinion that says that women are being discriminated against by men. She said it is nature and the responsibility to keep the world moving that limits women. If they don’t take time off to make babies, the world will come to a halt and they will be failing God.

According to her, why gender balance drives a better working world is because of the strength a woman brings into whatever she does. There are several positive changes that take place when a woman gets into the system. Women are good multi-taskers, in terms of balancing both work and home front. They are good communicators too. When the issue of gender inequality is addressed, we will surely have a better working world.

The third and last Guest Speaker Mrs. Oluwaseun Adesoye (Group Executive, TrustBanc Group) talked on “Positioning Yourself for Balance”. She pointed out that it does not stop at chanting for more gender balanced world; rather the questions should be whether they are ready to pay the price that comes with it.  Have they acquired the right skills that will put them in better positioning that will make them key into the balanced world?  She encouraged them to be consistent in whatever they do and to always know that their first responsibility is to themselves.

It was indeed a rewarding experience for all the women in attendance who have been empowered to keep impacting positively on the society.

 

More images from the event (Cross section of Guests and Speakers)

 

 

 

 

To be a member or support what we do, kindly visit www.nasmelagoschapter.com for more details and how to get involved. Also, follow and connect with us on our social media platforms.

 

Facebook: facebook.com/Nasmelagos

Twitter: Nasme_Lagos

Instagram: nasmelagos

LinkedIn: Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Ent. Lagos

 

NASME WOMEN!!

UPWARDLY MOBILE!!!

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Press Release

AfCFTA Extends Reach To North Africa

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The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat and N Gage Consulting signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance implementation of the AfCFTA within Africa, with a focus on North Africa and Arabic speaking countries as well as harness the potential of the AfCFTA through targeted outreach towards positive impact in Africa. The MoU was sealed by the AfCFTA Secretary General, H.E. Mr. Wamkele Mene and Mr. Karim Refaat, Chairman of N Gage Consulting and Dr. Sherif Fahmy, CEO.

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The was established as an effort to eliminate trade barriers among African countries with the aim of creating a single market size of 1.3 billion people with a combined annual GDP of $3.4 trillion. As the largest free trade area in the world, the AfCFTA is expected to increase intra-African trade and promote regional economic integration of Africa and, as a result, contribute to the sustainable economic and social development of the continent through the creation of employment opportunities and the reduction of poverty.

Pursuant to the MoU, the two parties commit to strengthen cooperation and promote concrete activities in areas of conducting webinars, tailor effective roundtable sessions, public-private dialogues and to develop a series of monthly newsletters to disseminate relevant information through social media platforms with the aim of raising awareness of business and governments on the AfCFTA, its objectives and showcasing AfCFTA’s Guided Trade Initiative and its role in powering trade among members states. 

Additionally, the collaboration will facilitate the preparation for the AfCFTA Business Forum and The Intra African Trade Fair (IATF) and the execution of different capacity building programs for the member states in order to leverage the AfCFTA to boost intra-African trade and utilise Public Private Partnership (PPP) projects to support investment in infrastructure.

The MoU is expected to promote the AfCFTA as a trade liberalisation instrument and sustainable development enabler and accelerator as well as enhance intra-African trade as an engine for economic diversification and industrialisation.

As one of the leading companies operating in the area of government relations and public policy in the MENA region, N Gage Consulting is committed to support the AfCFTA and will deploy all the necessary resources to strengthen and expand cooperation with the AfCFTA Secretariat to enhance African trade integration. 

In addition to her impressive legal background, Rosemond has cultivated a niche expertise in the tech startup ecosystem. She has consistently provided comprehensive consulting, due diligence, and investor readiness services to numerous companies in the tech sector.

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Press Release

Koa Academy Wins MEST Africa Challenge 2023, Secures $50,000 Funding

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Koa Academy team

MEST Africa, a leading Pan-African tech entrepreneurship training program, seed fund, and incubator, proudly announces Koa Academy as the grand prize winner of the 2023 MEST Africa Challenge (MAC), securing a $50,000 equity investment after a competitive pitch battle among Africa’s brightest tech innovators.

In a thrilling showcase of ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit, Koa Academy from South Africa stood out at the MEST Africa Challenge finale in Accra, Ghana, surpassing contenders from across the continent. This coveted startup competition, known for identifying and nurturing tech talent, saw Koa Academy clinch the top spot with its groundbreaking solution, poised to transform the Edtech industry.

The competition drew applications from hundreds of early-stage tech startups, rigorously assessed on criteria such as innovation, scalability, and team strength. Finalists from Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa and Kenya competed in the grand finale, demonstrating their unique solutions and business models to a panel of esteemed judges, including investors and industry experts.

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Koa Academy, Winner of the 2023 MEST Africa Challenge and a South African innovator in online education, offers dynamic and interactive courses for grades 4-12. With a focus on engagement and accessibility, it champions digital learning, making quality education available to anyone, anywhere, and transforming the educational landscape in South Africa. The startup impressed the judges at the MAC Finale showcasing significant market potential, revenue growth, and social impact.

“Winning the MEST Africa Challenge has been an amazing experience for the Koa Academy team. It highlights the hard work and dedication that everyone has put into growing Koa. This recognition is not just an award; it’s a testament to the passion and perseverance that drives us every day. Amidst the challenges, this journey has brought us closer to others across the continent, forging relationships and connections that fuel our mission even further. We are reminded that we’re not alone in this endeavor and are incredibly grateful for the support and learning opportunities this challenge has presented,” said Lauren Anderson, Co-founder and CEO, Koa Academy, expressing gratitude and optimism for the future of tech startups in Africa.

Ashwin Ravichandran, Portfolio Advisor at MEST Africa congratulated the winner and finalists for their exceptional achievements and resilience. The event also highlighted the support of Absa Bank Ghana for contributing to the challenge’s success. The MEST Africa Challenge continues to be a pivotal platform for emerging tech startups in Africa, offering funding, visibility, and support to innovate and scale. Koa Academy’s victory underscores the vibrant potential within Africa’s tech ecosystem, promising a brighter future for the continent’s digital landscape.

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Deel Acquires PaySpace

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Deel announced today that it is acquiring African-based payroll and HR solution company PaySpace for an undisclosed amount. It is one of Deel’s largest acquisitions to date.

PaySpace has more than 20 years of payroll technology experience, providing payroll engines and HR services in 44 countries across Europe, Latam, Middle East and Africa for more than 14,000 customers. Its size, expertise, and proprietary disruptive payroll technology give it unrivaled scale and reach. Customers include multinationals across various industries such as Heineken, Coca-Cola Beverages and Puma Sports SA.

By acquiring PaySpace, Deel will become the first global payroll & Employer of Record (EOR) with its own full-stack payroll engine localized in 50 countries and integrated into its offering. Deel has the ability to be the system of record for HR organizations worldwide and can give its customers a simple and single interface to manage their global teams. All of this results in greater efficiency and control for companies, faster payroll cycles, more localized compliance insights relevant to their workforce, plus the ability to make changes to their payroll at any time.

The news follows Deel’s acquisition of leading APAC payroll provider PayGroup. Deel now owns the full HR stack- entities, local teams (legal, HR, payroll), and local payroll engines – across six continents. Its four-year ambition is to serve 100 countries with native payroll engines, and this acquisition is a significant step toward that goal.

Deel co-founder and CEO Alex Bouaziz said, “Global payroll is hard to do and critical to get right. As a company, you want assurances you can pay your teams on time, compliantly, anywhere in the world. PaySpace’s single-platform payroll expertise and breadth of coverage, particularly in Africa and the Middle East, combined with PayGroup’s presence in APAC, will give Deel customers the reach they need to grow their businesses globally. Our long-term vision is to be the most comprehensive payroll system in the world.”

PaySpace’s proprietary technology is a cloud native framework built as a single engine. Its platform allows for easy configuration to add additional countries through localization. These localization projects normally take years to complete, but with PaySpace’s innovative technology, it can localize much faster than any other payroll provider.

Clyde van Wyk, PaySpace Director explained, ”Like PaySpace, Deel strives to evolve its offering through disruption. We set out to modernize the payroll industry, which was burdened by manual processes and stringent legislative and compliance requirements, much like Deel revolutionized global hiring. This acquisition brings together leading employment services and payroll technology expertise, delivering a unique and powerful customer offering with unrivaled automation, flexibility and scalability.”

Deel also announced today that it has achieved $500M+ in annual recurring revenue (ARR) organically, outside of this acquisition. In under five years, the company has grown to 3,000 team members in more than 100 countries. It has been EBITDA positive and consistently generating cash for a year and a half.

Since its founding, Deel has transformed into the all-in-one HR and payroll solution for global teams. It owns 150+ entities in the world and now manages in-house in-country payroll teams in over 70 countries, in addition to offering Employer of Record, contractor, immigration, HRIS, and performance management services worldwide.

 

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