Highlights of Women of Courage presented by Empowered Women International

Since September of this year, I have been a member of the Advisory Board for Empowered Women International, based in Alexandria, Virginia. I have always been a fan of their work and especially of their founder, Marga Fripp. Those of you who know me, know that I believe in supporting the empowerment of women and children, especially those who do not always have a voice in our society. Empowered Women International’s main mission, to empower women into develop thriving businesses through their art and other related efforts.

Each year, EWI brings in a group of women, many of whom are recent immigrants and refugees to the United States, and provide professional development through workshops to transform them from mere artisans to business women. In November, I was invited to talk to them about my journey into creative entrepreneurship, which I enjoyed immensely. This year, 12 lucky women from various backgrounds completed the program and “graduated” earlier this month, ready to enter the world of entrepreneurism.

On Saturday, December 11, 2010, I attended EWI’s Women of Courage Gala, which celebrated these talented women’s achievements as well as showcased their creations for sale. Wonderful guest speakers included Jimena Ryan, Director of Marketing & Community Affairs at RAFFA, P.C., and Jameela Alter, Author of “On Clipped Wings”. Check out the photos below from this special event.

About Empowered Women International

Empowered Women International (EWI) is an award-winning non-profit organization that creates jobs, leadership skills and economic opportunities for low-income immigrant, refugee and other women struggling to integrate or transition from very difficult life circumstances into the community and marketplace.

EWI helps women rebuild their lives and livelihoods by starting up new careers, social ventures and small businesses. Member beneficiaries are women artists, artisans, and micro-entrepreneur working in various craft, food, beauty and other creative industries. Programs include entrepreneurial training, workforce and career mentoring, marketing and business coaching, and supplemental income through art and retail sales. To learn more or make a donation, visit www.ewint.org

EWI HOLIDAY GIFT SHOPPING HOURS Dec 6 through Dec 22, 2010
Monday – Thursday, 12-7pm

EWI Gift Shop at Convergence
1801 N. Quaker Lane
Alexandria, VA 22302
P: 571-933-3989

For every $10 you spend by Dec 22 at our gift shop, your name will be entered into a drawing. The prize is a bag-full of goodies from EWI artists!Winner will be chosen on December 23rd. Our business is not about selling art or goods, but transforming lives. We’re not asking for charity, but opportunity.

Keepsake boxes by recent EWI graduate, Kim M.