Author: Ana Dajovska 

The Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) concluded its program with a closing and award ceremony on April 19th. The event was emceed by Ana Zafirova, a MAAA member and journalist, and it commenced with opening remarks from the US Ambassador to North Macedonia, H.E. Ms. Angela Aggeler, who affirmed the exceptional support provided by the US Embassy Skopje to MAAA in realizing the AWE project activities aimed at empowering young women to become active participants in the economy by starting their own companies.

The event continued with an address from the President of MAAA, Ms. Zorica Trajkova Strezovska, who expressed her satisfaction that MAAA is among other organizations in over 80 countries in the world implementing the AWE project.

She confirmed MAAA’s dedication to empowering diverse demographics within our society, including young women who are encouraged to improve their entrepreneurial and business skills and gain the vital knowledge needed to transform their own business ideas into concrete business plans, and launch their own businesses and further develop their already established startups.

Following this, the Project Coordinator, Ms. Verica Jordanova, welcomed the event's guests and expressed her gratitude to all the women who participated in the project and submitted a final business plan.

She explained the criteria upon which the plans were assessed: the quality of the business plan, marketing strategy, financial planning, and action plan. “In general”, she said, “all candidates demonstrated an excellent understanding of the crucial concepts necessary for developing a business plan, which deserves praise. However, the winning business plans stand out for their sustainability and well-argued financial projections, instilling strong confidence that their realization is both realistic and predictable”.

Afterwards, the winners for the best business plans were announced: Marta Pejoska (1st prize), Nadica Gorgieva and Marina Toshevska (2nd prize), and Aleksandra Stojkovska Horvat and Natali Ristovska (3rd prize). Their developing business plans were evaluated by the jury committee, which comprised Sofia Gosheva, Tatjana Veljkovic, Aleksandar Celeski, Vesna Ivanoska, and Verica Jordanova. The competition has unveiled significant potential and innovative spirit among the participants, paving the way for interesting and profitable business opportunities.

Marta Pejoska, the first prize winner, is a young architect creating unique jewelry. Her winning business plan, "Atelier Marta Pejoska," aims to provide people with memorable experiences through hands-on activities. Participants will learn about an important aspect of Macedonian cultural heritage from established filigree artists.

One of the second prize winners, Nadica Gorgieva, is the co-founder of "Chia Dia Drinks," a company that produces healthy drinks made from chia seeds. "ChiaDia" offers an innovative, non-bioengineered, clean-label beverage with functional ingredients sourced naturally. The drinks provide a unique taste and extraordinary health benefits without added sugars. By promoting healthier habits and contributing to disease prevention, ChiaDia strives to create a positive impact while maintaining a sustainable and safe planet.

The other second prize winner, Marina Toshevska, is the co-founder of the startup "Eco Food Concept." Her business plan focuses on producing natural, allergen-free, and environmentally friendly treats for a healthy diet for pets (dogs and cats).

Aleksandra Stajkovska Horvat, one of the third prize winners, presented her business plan for "Nuclein Health." The plan involves providing a direct-to-consumer genetic test called GenoScope, which analyzes individuals' health risks by examining their genes. Their mission is to democratize genetic testing across North Macedonia and the Balkan region, making it accessible to everyone and promoting proactive and healthier living.

Natali Ristovska, the other third prize winner, is the co-founder of YOVA, the first Macedonian ethical fashion brand. Her business plan focuses on strengthening YOVA's position as an ethical fashion brand dedicated to offering high-quality fashion accessories that appeal to conscious consumers worldwide. Their vision is to redefine the fashion industry by changing the way fashion is produced, consumed, and experienced .

The ceremony marked the culmination of an exceptional program tailored for women entrepreneurs, offering them a highly educational experience. The innovative products developed by the participants and the successful businesses they have established stand as a testament to their growth. We trust that the AWE program served as a crucial milestone in paving the way for their future successful careers in business.