GRACE: Girls, Roma Ambassadors for Corporate Empowerment
The first edition GRACE (Girls, Roma Ambassadors for Corporate Empowerment) initiative, organized by the Arete Youth Foundation and supported by the Council of Women in Business in Bulgaria, brought together a group of young girls with aspirations for educational and professional growth. This initiative, funded by the US Embassy in Bulgaria within “Empowering Roma youth through Arete`s leadership camps” project, aimed to empower girls from the Roma community and provide them with valuable insights into the business world.
Through the GRACE initiative, 10 girls, all of them National Roma Girls` Camps alumni, have had the chance to visit companies like UniCredit Bulbank, Lidl Bulgaria, Sum-Up, Electrohold and The Smarts Group, gaining invaluable insights into various industries and professions. These experiences not only broaden their horizons but also inspire them to dream bigger and aim higher.
“As participants of the GRACE initiative, we recognize the importance of embracing new experiences and seizing opportunities for growth. Our day was not only filled with practical knowledge but also with inspiration and motivation for our future endeavors. We are grateful to the Arete Youth Foundation, the Council of Women in Business in Bulgaria, and the U.S. Embassy in Bulgaria for empowering us and providing us with this invaluable opportunity. Through initiatives like GRACE, we are confident that women will continue to thrive in the business world, breaking barriers and inspiring future generations”, insights from the girls.
Honored guests at the closing event organized by the alumni club of the CWBB, were Mr. Charles Perego, Political and Economic Officer, Mr. Gabriel Cortez, Political Officer and Mrs. Nikoleta Gabrovska, Public Engagement Specialist from the U.S. Embassy Sofia.
The support of the US Embassy has enabled the GRACE initiative to flourish, offering girls from marginalized communities opportunities that were previously out of reach. By providing resources and opportunities aimed at empowering Roma youth, the US Embassy has underscored its commitment to promoting equality, inclusion, and opportunity for all. The support of the US Embassy sends a powerful message: that investing in youth empowerment is investing in Bulgaria’s future.
The ‘Grace: Girls, Roma Ambassadors for Corporate Empowerment’ initiative is part of the “Empowering Roma youth through Arete`s leadership camps” project funded by the U.S. Embassy in Bulgaria. The statements and opinions expressed herein belong solely to Arete Youth Foundation- Bulgaria and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Embassy or their partners.