DULY is pleased to announce that the report of the Global Study on Business Equality is now available, with contributions from more than 200 businesswomen in more than 40 countries.
“Our non-commercial study of women entrepreneurs focuses on providing valuable insights applicable at the personal, family, community and state levels. By understanding the factors that drive women in entrepreneurship, we aim to foster a more equitable environment in all spheres of society,” said Ksenia Sternina, International Managing Partner at DULY.
The study reveals different perceptions of male and female role models, and offers insights into the impact of local role models and family support on the journey of female entrepreneurs. The majority of women (71%) cited men as role models, primarily globally, while female role models (57%) focused on local figures.
Anum Kamran, Founder of ElleWays says, “To bring more local women to the global scale, we must invest in accessible education and mentoring programs that empower women to navigate the global landscape.”
Recent perceptions within the event focused on women of DULY they highlight a preference for role models with whom women can identify, as global figures can be daunting. Local role models and the community play a crucial role in shaping the mindset and success of women entrepreneurs, addressing challenges related to false equality.
Katharina Wöhl, Head of International Sales at Accso, commented: “The basis for taking local women to the global scale is well-managed active local communities that are inclusive and representative of the country's demographics. “Next, women active in local and global communities must actively promote, elevate and mentor less globally integrated women to develop their skills and connect them with the right global networks to foster their continued success.”
Female role models are not always prominent personalities or celebrities. Like-minded family members, teachers, and business owners can also be role models. They can inspire the community by setting an example and sharing experiences that are closer to reality. These communities also play support and mentoring roles, which is crucial in the early stages of business development. Many women entrepreneurs are not aware of local role models. This lack of awareness is compounded by the historical underrepresentation of women in the business world.
«Despite the lack of business experience and initial skepticism, I did not allow doubts to prevail. Participating in local business incubators and acceleration programs has given me invaluable experience,” he stated. Akmaral Yeskendir, founder of ADU24 marketplace.
Women entrepreneurs, often lacking social and financial support and facing skepticism when starting their own businesses, emphasize the importance of self-confidence and determination. “»The main challenge lies in accessing investment funds and achieving equitable investment between genders. Current studies indicate that funding remains unequal between women and men internationally, with the largest fundraising efforts carried out by men,” said Amina Oultache, founder of Creadev. «It is crucial to distinguish between genuine support and tokenism. Women founders are not simple boxes of diversity; “We are architects of innovation and drivers of change, especially in industries neglected by our male-centric world,” said Elina Valeeva, CEO and co-founder of Essence App.
Despite the obstacles, support emerges from local organizations and unknown female leaders, emphasizing the vital role of mentorship and empowerment in achieving notable achievements. Experts underline the imperative need for the entire business community to support local women entrepreneurs, highlighting the importance of showcasing their trajectories globally and promoting a cultural change towards business equality, challenging falsehoods and stereotypes.
In addition, DULY, as a Global Alliance, revealed plans to develop the Equality Guide, aiming to close the gap between intentions and reality through collaborative efforts of inspiring leaders and partners. To support startups in various industries and encourage innovation, the DUAMAS company intends to actively promote the Guide within accelerators, investment funds and government entities.
