What Now? SheCreates Fellows Wrap Up Phase One and Prepare for Implementation

In March, the SheCreates Fellowship marked the conclusion of its training phase, closing one chapter while opening another. What began as a journey of learning and personal growth is now evolving into a period of action, where fellows begin applying what they have built over the past months.

The final session, facilitated by Joyeuse Senga, Founder & Executive Director, Friends Career Center and Public Health Researcher, focused on “Leading Change as an Entrepreneur.” Fellows were reminded that change is a constant in business. Customer needs shift, costs fluctuate, and markets continue to evolve. What once worked may no longer be effective. Rather than seeing this as a challenge, participants were encouraged to view change as an opportunity to stay flexible, think creatively, and remain responsive as they grow their ventures.

Another key focus of the session was building a strong and compelling business pitch. Fellows learned how to communicate their ideas with clarity and confidence, keeping their message concise yet impactful. They also explored how to tailor their pitch depending on the audience, whether engaging customers, partners, or potential investors.

While the training phase has come to an end, the fellowship continues. Fellows are now entering the implementation phase, where they will begin putting their ideas into practice and refining their businesses. As part of this next step, they will have the opportunity to pitch their ventures for seed funding. Each fellow will also be paired with a mentor who will provide ongoing guidance, practical advice, and support throughout this stage.

The foundation for this next phase has been carefully built through a wide range of practical sessions. Over the course of the program, fellows developed a clearer vision for their businesses and learned how to set meaningful goals. They gained an understanding of business registration processes and strengthened their digital skills using tools such as email, Google Drive, and AI. Financial management sessions helped them build discipline in budgeting, while branding sessions encouraged them to shape both their business identity and personal image. They also explored market research, customer care, and design thinking, all while reflecting on how to balance personal responsibilities with entrepreneurial ambitions.

The impact of the program is already visible in how fellows speak about their journeys.

“This program has helped me make real progress in shaping and validating my business,” shared Rachel Niyonagize of VetFarmers Shop. “I now focus on what truly moves my business idea forward. I feel more disciplined and clear about my priorities. It has turned uncertainty into direction.”

Divine Munezero of Ntagwabira Fashion Ltd shared a similar experience: “This program has been very impactful. It helped me clarify my business idea, think strategically, and turn concepts into practical actions. Through mentorship and learning sessions, I’ve gained confidence in decision-making and a clearer vision for sustainable growth.”

As the SheCreates Fellows move forward, they carry with them more than just knowledge. They step into this next phase equipped with the confidence, skills, and mindset needed to take action, adapt to change, and build businesses that can grow sustainably and create meaningful impact in their communities.

Find out more about the SheCreates Fellowship here