November 20, Pune – The Women’s Entrepreneurship Research Alliance (WERA), a groundbreaking initiative co-founded by Deakin University, Australia, and Symbiosis International (Deemed University) (SIU), Pune, is thrilled to announce the successful completion of the Lean Entrepreneurship Workshop and Pitch Competition. This remarkable event took place over two days i.e. November 18–19, 2024 marking a key component of WERA’s commitment to fostering and empowering women entrepreneurs in India by equipping them with essential entrepreneurial skills, insights, and hands-on learning experiences.
Founded as a collaborative research initiative by Deakin University and Symbiosis International University and supported by the Government of India’s Scheme for Promotion of Academic and Research Collaboration (SPARC), WERA addresses the underrepresentation of women as entrepreneurs and leaders within entrepreneurial ecosystems. The Alliance’s mission is to build cross-border, multi-institutional engagements that tackle systemic challenges to enhance pathways for women entrepreneurs.
ALSO READ: Intellipaat Sets New Benchmark with First-of-its-kind Physical Labs
Dr Vidya Yeravdekar, Pro Chancellor, Symbiosis International (Deemed University) said, “At Symbiosis International University, we are extremely happy to have collaborated with Deakin University in hosting the Lean Entrepreneurship Workshop and Pitch Competition—an important platform dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs. This initiative aligns with our unwavering commitment to fostering an ecosystem that supports and uplifts women-led businesses, giving them the tools, knowledge, and opportunities to thrive. By providing a platform for these talented women to gain valuable skills and showcase their ventures, we are fostering a future where entrepreneurship is not only a means of personal growth but also a catalyst for societal progress.”
“WERA represents the strength of international collaboration, equipping women entrepreneurs in India with the skills and mentorship needed to unlock their business potential to succeed and make a lasting impact,” said Ravneet Pawha, Vice President (Global Engagement) and CEO (South Asia), Deakin University.
“This alliance is built on our longstanding partnership with SIU, uniting Deakin’s global expertise with Symbiosis’ local knowledge, empowering women-led businesses to grow and thrive. By fostering equity and inclusion within the entrepreneurial ecosystem, WERA is setting a new benchmark for advancing gender parity in business and innovation.”
The Lean Entrepreneurship Workshop sessions were designed to bridge the journey from ideation to execution for aspiring entrepreneurs. The sessions, both practical and interactive provided insightful introduction and orientation for aspiring and ambitious entrepreneurs from the region on the following key aspects –
- Bridging knowledge and entrepreneurship for successful enterprises
- Identifying and targeting the right opportunities
- Schemes for new business ventures to thrive in a competitive market along with testing market viability
- Aligning resources with market demand to develop a Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
- Essentials skills of proposal development, business pitches, presentation, and negotiation to equip for business success
The event culminated in ‘PitchScape: Ideas Unleashed’, a resounding success where participants presented their business concepts to a jury of esteemed academic and industry experts and stood a chance to win awards valued at INR 1 lakh. It aimed to introduce healthy interaction and competitiveness among participants while demonstrating possible differentiation in market offerings.
Ankita Arvikar’s venture The Natural from Pune was declared as the winner of Pitchscape. A specially abled individual Ankita has conquered her fight with cerebral palsy to found The Natural, a brand of handmade soaps and cosmetics. Over 6 years her venture has given opportunities to other specially abled individuals and mothers of specially abled children from Pune and neighbouring areas in the region. The cash award shall be used to further her venture and create more opportunities for those less privileged as per Ankita’s plans.
Dr. Ramakrishnan Raman, Vice Chancellor, Symbiosis International University expressed success of the event adding “We believe that empowering women in entrepreneurship is key to building a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable future. Through this event, we hope to not only inspire women to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams but also to equip them with the skills to lead businesses that can drive positive change in their communities and beyond. Together through WERA, we are working towards a world where women entrepreneurs are recognized as powerful drivers of economic growth and social transformation.”
Priyanka Singh, Executive Director (South Asia), Deakin University echoed the positive reception and success of the event saying, “This event exemplifies WERA’s commitment to fostering an ecosystem that empowers and uplifts women entrepreneurs in India. By engaging in practical learning, receiving mentorship from industry experts, and gaining direct insights, participants acquire essential skills to thrive in their entrepreneurial journeys.”
About WERA: The Women’s Entrepreneurship Research Alliance (WERA) represents a unique collaboration between Deakin University and Symbiosis International (Deemed University) that promotes women’s economic empowerment through research, education, and practical support. WERA strives to build networks that enable women to thrive as entrepreneurs and leaders across industries and geographies.
About Deakin University: Established in 1974, Deakin University successfully combines excellence in teaching, research, and effective partnerships with industry and government to deliver high-quality courses and undertake research that makes a difference to the domestic and international communities it serves.
Deakin’s South Asia operations commenced in 1994 in New Delhi, India, making it one of the first overseas education providers to set up operations in this region. In India, Deakin engages with the government, industry, and academia to share its vibrant education and research culture. This year marks Deakin’s 30 years of ‘Impact in India’, a celebration in tandem with Deakin’s pioneering establishment of India’s first international university branch campus.
About Symbiosis International: Symbiosis International (Deemed University) is a multi-disciplinary university offering its students and faculty a vibrant learning ecosystem designed around its multi-cultural and innovative ethos. Symbiosis was established in 1971 by Prof. Dr. S.B. Mujumdar, which was a ‘home away from home’ for international students. The Institution is based on the principles of Vedic thought of “World as One Family”. The University’s name fittingly captures the quintessence of the relationship with international students, a mutually beneficial bond between India and the International student community. Symbiosis is committed to building international understanding by offering quality education and is resplendent of the activities and students of more than 85 countries.
EasyShiksha.com is your go-to platform for accessible online courses, empowering learners to enhance their skills and career potential.
