US Chargé d’Affaires Kimberly Furnish visits Eleuthera

US Chargé d’Affaires Kimberly Furnish visits Eleuthera to launch the Academy of Women Entrepreneurs Program (AWE) in partnership with OEF

OEF in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy-Nassau, hosted a special reception to launch the 2025 Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) Program in Eleuthera. Held under the theme “Growing Businesses, Brewing Opportunities,” the Bahamian Bush Tea-themed Cocktail Party and info session brought together aspiring women entrepreneurs from across the island to explore new avenues for business growth, leadership, and impact through the AWE program.

Charge Furnish took time out to tour the CTI farm and learn about sustainable agriculture practices and our local food security goals. Here she is shown a hydroponic lettuce growing system by Dr. Selima Hauber, Chief Crop Production Officer.

Chargé d’Affaires Kimberly Furnish delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the U.S. government’s commitment to supporting women in business. “The U.S. Embassy is proud to bring the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) to women across The Bahamas. Since launching in 2019, over 350 Bahamian women have joined this impactful program. Many have gone on to open businesses, create jobs, and give back to their communities,” said Furnish. “The AWE program is part of the United States’ global commitment to women’s economic empowerment. Research shows that closing the economic gap between women and men could boost the global economy by $12 trillion. That is why we invest in women and that is also why we are pleased to partner with the One Eleuthera Foundation on this initiative.”

The program is scheduled to start on July 1st with a cohort of thirty women who are either already in business on Eleuthera or preparing to launch. The program and curriculum will be facilitated and delivered by OEF with the aim of helping each candidate to build cohesive strategies and a resilient business model.

“The AWE program aligns with our vision to build resilient, self-sufficient communities through education, entrepreneurship, and collaboration,” explained Keyron Smith, President and CEO, OEF.

“Women are the backbone of our homes, communities and organizations. In every sector, on every island, and in every country, when women are given access to the right tools and opportunities, entire societies shift upward. Building capacity among women entrepreneurs closely aligns with OEF’s mission to strengthen communities and foster economic growth. We are proud to partner with the U.S. Embassy to bring this opportunity to Eleuthera and to help create a platform where women can lead, innovate, and thrive.”

L to R: Keyron Smith, President and CEO of OEF & CTI, Charge Kimberly Furnish, U.S. Embassy Nassau; Yolanda Pawar, Chief Communications Officer, OEF; Suemayah Abu-Douleh, Public Affairs and Grants Officer, U.S. Embassy Nassau

The evening was both celebratory and informative. Businesswomen of all ages from across Eleuthera attended to learn more about the application process and how they could benefit from the essential skills, mentorship, and resources provided through AWE. Participants enjoyed networking opportunities and a flavorful selection of bush tea sampling, appetizers and refreshments prepared by OEF’s Farmer’s Table restaurant.

This partnership between the U.S. Embassy-Nassau, and a place-based nonprofit and community development organization, like OEF underscores the power of collaboration in addressing local challenges. As OEF continues to champion the advancement of women and community-led development, the launch of AWE 2025 marks an exciting step forward. With strong partnerships and engaged communities, the future for women entrepreneurs on Eleuthera holds even greater promise and potential.