Women+Trade - Highlighting Women Exporters Based in Atlanta


By Lucas de Souza Martins | Linkedln

In an effort to celebrate women entrepreneurs and their contributions, the City of Atlanta Mayor's Office of International Affairs (MOIA) hosted "Women + Trade," on April 30th, a virtual panel highlighting women exporters based in Atlanta, their impact on the global economy, and how they are managing and dealing with the COVID-19 crisis. Andal Balu (Founder, Cocoatown) was one the Panel member and shared their journey, best practices, and how they are navigating the COVID-19 crisis. Watch the video below for more details.



Source:   https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/mayors-office-international-affairs-highlights-women-lucas/

ATLANTA - Female entrepreneurship plays an essential role in Atlanta’s economy. In an effort to celebrate women entrepreneurs and their contributions, the City of Atlanta Mayor's Office of International Affairs (MOIA) hosted "Women + Trade," on April 30th, a virtual panel highlighting women exporters based in Atlanta, their impact on the global economy, and how they are managing and dealing with the COVID-19 crisis.

In the first panel, Doll Avant (Founder & CEO, Aquagenuity), Amy Barbieri (President & Co-Founder, Vital4), Andal Balu (Founder, Cocoatown), and Annie Eaton (CEO, Futurus) shared their journey, best practices, and how they are navigating the COVID-19 crisis.

The four women exporters mentioned the importance of resources such as webinars promoted by the EXIM Bank and the Metro Atlanta Chamber that provide information and resources to navigate the current crisis.

Ms. Balu, whose company manufactures, distributes and sells specialty machines for small-batch craft chocolate industry, emphasized the importance of promoting yourself as a way to grow and stay relevant in business.

Barbieri and Eaton emphasized the importance of having a business continuity plan because a crisis like the ongoing one is unpredictable. Regarding the difficulties of being a female exporter and an entrepreneur, the panelists reinforced mentorship as a powerful tool of support.

Avant mentioned that - beyond her experience as a mentee - she has been mentoring new female leaders. "Open your mouth. Show your credentials. Don't be modest," the businesswoman stated.

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