Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: Fairs as Catalysts for Change in Azerbaijan

In recent years, Azerbaijan has witnessed a growing movement to empower women entrepreneurs through various educational programs and fairs. One notable event, "Woman Bazar 3," stands out as a testament to the commitment to fostering female entrepreneurship.

This six-month training program was designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of both established and aspiring women entrepreneurs. Its culmination was a fair where women proudly showcased their products and promoted their brands. The event also featured inspirational talks by successful women, aimed at boosting the motivation of budding entrepreneurs.

These initiatives play a pivotal role in increasing women's participation in society, particularly in the field of entrepreneurship. Shahla Ismayil, a gender expert, underscores that despite progress, women's entrepreneurship in Azerbaijan faces significant challenges. She identifies several key barriers, both cultural and economic, that hinder women from realizing their entrepreneurial potential.

Firstly, there are gender-based stereotypes and social expectations that often confine women to traditional roles. Additionally, economic hurdles, such as the need for capital, pose a significant barrier. Many women lack the necessary resources, like land or access to loans, to kickstart their businesses. These factors, coupled with moral challenges, limit their freedom and agency in pursuing entrepreneurial ventures.

To address these issues, Ismayil emphasizes the importance of providing women with resources, education, and support.

Women need access to training in areas like business planning, leadership, and self-confidence to overcome these obstacles. They also require the skills to secure financial resources, as negotiation and presentation abilities are crucial for accessing funding.

Women's fairs have emerged as a valuable tool in this endeavor. These events allow women to showcase their talents, build confidence, and directly access financial resources through product sales. Moreover, they inspire women to take on more significant entrepreneurial initiatives.

However, while fairs have a positive impact, Ismayil stresses that more comprehensive measures are necessary to foster women's entrepreneurship fully.

To achieve true gender equality in entrepreneurship, societal attitudes must change. Gender awareness campaigns and women's rights programs are vital to shift perceptions and create equal opportunities. Breaking away from traditional patriarchal norms that limit women's roles is essential for progress.

Social researcher and Neuromarketing expert Orkhan Shahbaz also highlights the transformative power of fairs. He notes that these events stimulate creativity, boost self-esteem, and enhance resilience in society. The growing presence of women in various sectors, including executive positions, is a promising sign of progress.

Shahbaz attributes the underrepresentation of women in entrepreneurship to deeply ingrained patriarchal norms and expectations.

In conclusion, the efforts to empower women entrepreneurs in Azerbaijan are commendable but face significant challenges rooted in cultural and economic factors. Fairs and training programs are steps in the right direction, but a holistic approach, including changing societal attitudes, is necessary for lasting change. As these initiatives continue to evolve, there is hope that women will increasingly break free from traditional roles, fostering a more more inclusive entrepreneurship in Azerbaijan.