In today’s evolving business landscape, women-led enterprises are reshaping industries, driving innovation, and creating opportunities for communities. Among these dynamic leaders is Alice Mamie Kobba, Chief Executive Officer of St. Alice Trading, who has recently been selected by the Government of Sierra Leone, alongside two other distinguished female entrepreneurs, to attend a prestigious seminar and training course in Beijing, China on the African Women Entrepreneurship Empowerment Project Workshop.
This recognition not only highlights Alice’s exceptional leadership but also underscores the vital role that Ellevate by Ecobank has played in shaping her entrepreneurial journey.
The Ellevate Advantage
Launched by Ecobank to specifically support women-owned and women-led businesses, Ellevate by Ecobank is a financial and capacity-building program designed to close the gender financing gap and empower female entrepreneurs. For Alice Mamie Kobba, the program became more than just a platform for access to finance — it became a springboard for growth, mentorship, and global exposure.
Through Ellevate, Alice gained access to:
- Tailored financial solutions that allowed St. Alice Trading to expand its operations sustainably.
- Capacity-building workshops and training, which enhanced her managerial and strategic leadership skills.
- Networking opportunities with like-minded women entrepreneurs across Africa, creating space for peer learning and collaboration.
- Visibility and recognition, positioning her as a role model in Sierra Leone’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
From Local to Global Stages
Alice’s journey reflects the transformation that Ellevate seeks to foster. From growing St. Alice Trading into a recognized business entity in Sierra Leone, to now representing the nation on a global platform in Beijing, she is a testament to the power of targeted empowerment initiatives.
Her participation in the Beijing workshop provides her not only with international exposure but also with the chance to bring back valuable insights, partnerships, and innovations that will impact both her business and the wider community of women entrepreneurs in Sierra Leone.
A Voice for Women Entrepreneurs
Alice credits much of her resilience and growth to the supportive framework created by Ellevate:
“Ellevate by Ecobank has been more than just a program, it has been a partner in my entrepreneurial journey. It gave me the tools, networks, and confidence to scale my business and to dream beyond borders.”
Her story echoes the experiences of countless women across Africa who, through Ellevate, have broken barriers and taken bold steps toward building sustainable businesses.
Ecobank Sierra Leone’s Commitment
For Ecobank Sierra Leone, Alice’s success story is a clear demonstration of the impact of investing in women entrepreneurs. The bank continues to provide dedicated platforms, financial products, and mentorship opportunities to ensure that women like Alice not only thrive but also inspire the next generation of female leaders.
Conclusion
As Alice Mamie Kobba prepares to represent Sierra Leone in Beijing, her journey stands as a powerful reminder that with the right support, African women entrepreneurs can transform not just their businesses but also the socio-economic fabric of their nations. Ellevate by Ecobank Sierra Leone is proud to be part of this transformation by unlocking potential, empowering women, and elevating their businesses.
