Deadline: April 30, 2024
Applications are open for the Visa Everywhere Pioneer 20 Programme 2024. This pioneering initiative aims to recognise and celebrate the remarkable contributions of refugee women across Europe who are entrepreneurs, leading small or micro businesses and social enterprises, giving them an opportunity to tell their stories and showcase their businesses.
As the world faces unprecedented challenges, it is crucial to highlight the stories of resilience, strength, and determination that refugee women bring to their communities and local economies. The Visa Everywhere Pioneer 20 recognition programme will spotlight entrepreneurs who are not only overcoming personal hardships but are also actively reshaping narratives, empowering both women and girls, and leaving a lasting positive impact on society.
The Visa Everywhere Pioneer 20 seeks to honour women from diverse backgrounds, industries, and experiences. These trailblazing individuals, whether they run small local businesses, innovative startups or large organisations serve as beacons of inspiration, breaking down barriers and fostering positive change. They are seeking stories from business owners who are actively dispelling stigmas, challenging stereotypes, campaigning for change, and making an impact on both the lives of others and the economic landscape.
Benefits
- To further support their growth, the selected pioneers will have access to business coaching and mentors.
- Visa will also donate £50,000 to refugee support organisations in support of this initiative more generally.
Eligibility
- Open to all women aged 18 and above.
- The individual must identify currently as a refugee or at some point identified as a refugee.
- Any charity, NGO or Foundation operating in Europe can nominate an individual.
- Any public sector or private sector entity that have an active program supporting refugees can nominate an individual.
- The individual must reside in Europe.
- The individual must be an entrepreneur, business owner or social enterprise owner.
Nomination
Nominations and self-nominations for the Visa Everywhere Pioneer 20 will be received until 30 April 2024. Organisations, charities, businesses and not for profits are encouraged to put forward the names of refugee women entrepreneurs who have demonstrated exceptional courage, resilience, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their respective fields.
For more information, visit Visa Everywhere Pioneer 20.
