Strengthening Young Women from Economically Disadvantaged Backgrounds Through Entrepreneurship

July 30, 2026 | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia** — “The training opened my eyes; now I know I can change my life.” These words from 24-year-old Romie Waketola capture the impact of a four-day entrepreneurship and business management training organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI) and the Lenegawa Women's Rehabilitation and Skills Development Center, through the SEED Program in partnership  with the Mastercard Foundation.

Romie, who joined the center four months ago, is one of more than 250 young women from economically disadvantaged backgrounds supported by this initiative. Delivered in both Amharic and Afaan Oromo, the program enabled participants to master practical skills in business planning, market expansion, and financial management, creating clear pathways to self-reliance.

“My dream is to open a restaurant,” Romie shared. “Before the training, I didn’t know where to begin, but today I have a clear vision and the confidence to pursue my goal.”

Another participant, 21-year-old Arsema Yonas, holds a background in cinematography and navigated life challenges before joining the center. She highlighted how the training helped her develop strong business planning and goal-setting strategies. Arsema plans to launch an event decoration and media production enterprise while using social media to share her personal journey and inspire other young people.

This initiative builds directly on the progress achieved in March 2026, when EDI, through the SEED Program in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, guided 228 young women at the Lenegawa Center to build employement pathways in high-growth sectors such as poultry farming and urban greenery development.

Hirpasa Chala (PhD), Managing Director and Chairperson of the Lenegawa Center, emphasized that practical entrepreneurship education serves as a powerful catalyst for long-term independence and broader community development.

EDI Training Manager  Tewodros Abebe confirmed that EDI’s support will extend well beyond the classroom. Moving forward, EDI and its partners will provide ongoing post-training support, including Business Development Services (BDS), dedicated mentorship, and facilitated access to finance to ensure these aspiring entrepreneurs can successfully launch, manage, and scale their businesses.

“At EDI, our goal is to walk alongside emerging business owners throughout their entire journey,” he said.