In a significant move to bolster female entrepreneurship, the Sharjah Business Women Council (SBWC), in collaboration with the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa) and the Sharjah Foundation for Supporting Entrepreneurial Projects (Ruwad), has hosted a preparatory workshop for a delegation of women entrepreneurs ahead of a trade mission to Guangzhou, China. The session aimed to equip the delegates with a robust framework for sourcing, procurement, and navigating one of the world’s most dynamic markets.
Sourcing With Purpose
Titled “Sourcing with Purpose: Know What You Need and Why,” the workshop brought together 16 female entrepreneurs selected from over 300 applicants. These founders, who operate in the fashion, beauty, retail, and packaging sectors, received practical training on identifying their sourcing needs and applying effective strategies to strengthen their supply chains. The session was led by Aroob Al-Husainan, a founder and supply chain advisor with deep expertise in trade between China and the Middle East. The workshop provided a detailed overview of the mission schedule, which will run from November 10 to 15, and focused on building the skills needed to secure valuable partnerships.
A Strategic Investment in Emirati Women
The trade mission is strategically aligned with the UAE’s national campaign, “The Emirates: The Startup Capital of the World,” which seeks to cement the nation’s status as a premier global hub for entrepreneurship. H.E. Sheikha Hind bint Majid Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SBWC, described the initiative as an investment in Emirati women and the global future of UAE business. “We are not simply looking for suppliers; we are seeking long-term partners who bring lasting value to our businesses,” she stated. “Success starts with clear planning, accurate sourcing lists, and shared insight. This visit will lead to new ideas, strong partnerships, and business deals that open the door to future growth.”
Fostering a Global-Ready Ecosystem
Leaders from the partner organizations emphasized the mission’s role in strengthening Sharjah’s innovation ecosystem. H.E. Sara Abdelaziz AlNuaimi, CEO of Sheraa, highlighted that the mission empowers founders with real-world exposure to international manufacturing and trade. “By connecting our entrepreneurs to one of the world’s most dynamic economic centres, this mission opens doors for strategic partnerships that can drive long-term growth,” she said. Amina Mohammed Abdulrahim, Director at Ruwad, added that the initiative reflects the spirit of collaboration and provides practical assistance for national projects to enter and compete in global markets.
From Ideation to Importation
The workshop offered participants a comprehensive guide to the entire sourcing and product development lifecycle. It covered key stages from ideation, research, and prototyping to understanding the supply chain relationship between manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers. The curriculum also addressed the fundamentals of international logistics, including sea and air freight, customs clearance, insurance, and necessary documentation like certificates of origin and commercial invoices. Entrepreneurs were trained to conduct detailed research, verify suppliers using video reports and offline inspections, and professionally manage the entire order process.
About Sharjah Business Women Council
The Sharjah Business Women Council (SBWC) was established in 2002 to support and empower women entrepreneurs in Sharjah and across the UAE. Operating under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of the Ruler of Sharjah, SBWC provides a platform for businesswomen to develop their skills, expand their networks, and access resources to grow their ventures. Through workshops, mentorship programs, and international trade missions, SBWC is dedicated to fostering a new generation of female leaders in the business world.
Source: Zawya
