Women in business! Gender E-zine 2021 - Success stories from International Programmes from Netherlands Enterprise Agency
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Gender E-zine 2021
Women in business!
Success stories from International Programmes from
Netherlands Enterprise Agency
»Sustainable, Agricultural, Innovative
and International Enterprise Commissioned by Netherlands Enterprise Agency
Table of contents
Foreword by Pascalle Grotenhuis 3
1 Gender in Netherlands Enterprise Agency projects: from Gender Aware to Gender
Transformative 5
Interview with Lisanne van Beek
2 Fair land rights for women in Africa 9
Interview with Thomas Vintges (LAND-at-scale)
3 Seed project offers equality for women farmers 13
Video and case story (FDOV)
4 Social impact entrepreneur Fadwa Moussaif is bringing together Moroccan
craftmanship and sustainable fashion 16
Video and case story (Orange Corners)
5 More and more female experts deployed in DSS crisis response 19
Case story (DSS)
6 Dutch bag brand sets up Fairtrade production in Bangladesh 21
Video and case story (DGGF/CBI)
7 Gender in the new positioning of the Netherlands 24
Interview with Deniece Reith and Eva de Vries (NL Branding)
8 The coronavirus pandemic as an accelerator for health care technology 27
Interview with Hester le Riche (Tover)
9 “You do not woo clients like Google: they come to you’’ 30
Interview with Melanie Rieback (Radically Open Security)
10 Virtual Coffee with the Ambassador 32
2
Foreword Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
Foreword Pascalle Grotenhuis Enterprise Agency projects:
from Gender Aware to Gender
Transformative
equality and empower all women and girls. Besides,
through its EU membership the Netherlands also supports 2 Fair land rights for women in
the Gender Action Plan III for the period 2021-2025. Africa
The Youth At Heart strategy (launched in 2020) also
3 Seed project offers equality for
devoted specific attention to the position of young women farmers
women with respect to bridging education and youth
employment. I strongly believe that it is a shared respon- 4 Social impact entrepreneur
sibility and we can all contribute, including you. Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
together Moroccan craftman-
Empowering women in the world of work is not only the ship and sustainable fashion
right thing, but also the smart thing to do: both in the
5 More and more female
global North and in particular in the global South, women
experts deployed in DSS crisis
play an important role in economy, international trade
response
and development, in particular sustainable and broader
human development. They are the backbones of the 6 Dutch bag brand sets up
societies. Fairtrade production in
I am delighted to present the 2021 Women in Business Bangladesh
magazine. Gender equality is a key priority of Dutch It is a proven business case as we know that women’s
foreign and international trade policy. We focus on entrepreneurship contributes to creating new development 7 Gender in the new positioning
enhancing women’s entrepreneurship both in the opportunities, reducing social exclusion and strengthening
of the Netherlands
Netherlands as well as in our focus countries and social cohesion. Also, women entrepreneurs help to create
8 The coronavirus pandemic as
integrating a gender lens in responsible business more and better jobs, tend to hire other women and an accelerator for health care
conduct. moreover, are more likely to address societal issues. technology
To achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, The economic role of women is being increasingly 9 “You do not woo clients like
the Netherlands is committed to all Sustainable acknowledged and encouraged. Addressing the gender Google: they come to you”
Development Goals, including goal 5: Achieve gender dimensions of economic development and trade policies
10 Virtual Coffee with
the Ambassador 3
Foreword Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
will result in more and better outcomes for households, economic opportunities. We strive to engage women as Enterprise Agency projects:
communities, companies and entire nations. Studies part of the post-pandemic solution for economic resi- from Gender Aware to Gender
show that countries facilitating equal labour participation lience, and simply because it is "smart economics." With Transformative
by women could grow their GNPs with 10-20% in ten the common goal of ‘Building Back Better’ in mind, it is
years’ time. Imagine... evident that we must work together to create a more 2 Fair land rights for women in
resilient and inclusive future: by putting grassroots Africa
Despite the clear benefits for countries and major efforts, women at the center.1
3 Seed project offers equality for
progress is slow and women remain economically women farmers
disadvantaged and are disproportionately affected by We urgently need to showcase their stories, we need
poverty, discrimination, exclusion, exploitation and more female role models. More awareness of our power 4 Social impact entrepreneur
gender inequality. In other words, there is still work to be and impact on societies and economy. We all have a story Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
done. The consequences of COVID-19 make gender- to tell. I invite you all to share your story, empower and together Moroccan craftman-
specific barriers even more challenging and the pandemic inspire others and act together in order to achieve our ship and sustainable fashion
especially hits hard on women for many reasons. common objective.
5 More and more female
experts deployed in DSS crisis
The dual burden of women has often become a triple I hope the success stories in this magazine will provide
response
burden since women have become responsible for you with inspiration, hope and power for a better, more
combining their job and unpaid care work with increased equal future for women’s entrepreneurship, today in 6 Dutch bag brand sets up
responsibilities at home (household, childcare, home- these difficult COVID-19 pandemic as well as in the post Fairtrade production in
schooling). As self-employment and SMEs are at the COVID-19 era. Bangladesh
center of the current crises, women’s entrepreneurship
has lost hard-won gains. Due to their size and sectoral 7 Gender in the new positioning
concentration, women-led businesses are more affected Pascalle Grotenhuis
of the Netherlands
by shocks such as COVID-19 and are disproportionately
8 The coronavirus pandemic as
affected by the contraction in economic activities as a Ambassador Women’s Rights and Gender Equality for the an accelerator for health care
result of the pandemic. Netherlands technology
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Our current task is hence to ensure that the pandemic 9 “You do not woo clients like
does not exacerbate existing gender inequalities that Google: they come to you”
1
Louise Anten, Annex 1: Defining Womens Economic Empowerment
affect women’s access to resources and equitable
Resilience, November 2020. 10 Virtual Coffee with
the Ambassador 4
Interview Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
Enterprise Agency projects:
from Gender Aware to Gender
Transformative
2 Fair land rights for women in
Africa
3 Seed project offers equality for
women farmers
4 Social impact entrepreneur
Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
together Moroccan craftman-
ship and sustainable fashion
5 More and more female
1
experts deployed in DSS crisis
response
Gender in Netherlands Enterprise Agency projects: 6 Dutch bag brand sets up
from Gender Aware to Gender Transformative Fairtrade production in
Bangladesh
In the International Development department, the Gender Coordinator makes sure 7 Gender in the new positioning
that the programmes help improve the socio-economic position of women in deve- of the Netherlands
loping countries. The gender implementation framework and the gender contact
8 The coronavirus pandemic as
persons for each programme play an important role in this work. an accelerator for health care
technology
9 “You do not woo clients like
Google: they come to you”
Lisanne van Beek (left) with International Women's 10 Virtual Coffee with
Coffee Alliance members the Ambassador 5
Interview Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
"Our goal is to ensure that every new The Gender Transformative projects also deal with
decision-making and the ownership of rights and
Enterprise Agency projects:
from Gender Aware to Gender
project should be at least Gender resources. That often means financial rights, such as the Transformative
Aware, and Gender Transformative freedom to get a loan or own a bank account. Projects in
this category are also known as Power & Agency or 2 Fair land rights for women in
whenever possible.” Do-Good projects. Africa
3 Seed project offers equality for
What are the Netherlands Enterprise Agency’s ambitions At the International Development department, we do not women farmers
when it comes to gender? want to include Gender Blind projects in our portfolio any
Gender Coordinator Lisanne van Beek, “Every programme more. Our goal is to ensure that every new project should 4 Social impact entrepreneur
has both intentional and unintentional effects on gender be at least Gender Aware, and Gender Transformative Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
relations. Our programmes in developing countries use whenever possible.” together Moroccan craftman-
3 gender strategies. These are Gender Blind, Gender ship and sustainable fashion
Aware and Gender Transformative. What do you see as the main challenge when implemen-
5 More and more female
ting such projects?
experts deployed in DSS crisis
Gender Blind projects pay no attention to gender inequality. “Gender issues are always context-specific: there is no
response
In general, we do not accept Gender Blind projects. Projects solution that fits all situations. It is important to pay
in the Gender Aware category do pay attention to gender. attention to gender as early as possible when developing 6 Dutch bag brand sets up
They ensure equal access to training courses, information a programme or project. Including gender in Monitoring Fairtrade production in
and finance, for example. We sometimes call projects in this and Evaluation (M&E) procedures is important, too. Bangladesh
category Access to Resources or Do No Harm projects. It enables us to track progress.’
7 Gender in the new positioning
of the Netherlands
The Netherlands Enterprise Agency has an International Development department. This department, together 8 The coronavirus pandemic as
with the Centre for the Promotion of Imports from developing countries (CBI) manages 42 programmes and an accelerator for health care
more than 3,600 projects in 68 developing countries.2 The programmes and projects vary in size and scope. technology
Most are managed by companies, NGOs, knowledge institutes and national and local governments.
9 “You do not woo clients like
Google: they come to you”
2
Netherlands Enterprise Agency project database, on the International Aid Transparency Initiative (IATI) website: Project Database | Development
Cooperation.
10 Virtual Coffee with
the Ambassador 6
Interview Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
What gender-related developments have you noticed in and Development Cooperation (BHOS) and the Enterprise Agency projects:
recent years? Sustainable Development Goals (numbers 5 and 8.5) from Gender Aware to Gender
“I have seen two big changes. When I started this job in mention these benefits explicitly. The infographic in Transformative
2016, I spent most of my time trying to convince people Figure 1, which we helped develop, gives an overview of
that it was important to invest in improving the position steps you can take to improve your project. 2 Fair land rights for women in
of women. Africa
The second change I have seen is the growing attention to
3 Seed project offers equality for
These days, the main question is no longer ‘why?’, but improving the local business climate for women entrepre- women farmers
‘how?’. Many colleagues see the benefits of investing in a neurs. We call this creating an enabling environment.
better position for women. The policy for Foreign Trade One example is the way we improve access to land rights 4 Social impact entrepreneur
Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
together Moroccan craftman-
ship and sustainable fashion
5 More and more female
experts deployed in DSS crisis
response
6 Dutch bag brand sets up
Fairtrade production in
Bangladesh
7 Gender in the new positioning
of the Netherlands
8 The coronavirus pandemic as
an accelerator for health care
technology
9 “You do not woo clients like
Google: they come to you”
10 Virtual Coffee with
Figure 1. What to think about when taking gender-related measures.
the Ambassador 7
Interview Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
through the LAND-at-scale programme. People are also tion with CNV International and Partnering for Social Enterprise Agency projects:
looking at underlying problems more often. Lastly, talking Impact. from Gender Aware to Gender
to local stakeholders to get a good idea of the local Transformative
context is becoming more important, too.” • The Donor Committee for Enterprise Development
(DCED) is a forum for donors to share knowledge and 2 Fair land rights for women in
What motivates you to work with the gender theme? experience of Private Sector Development. The DCED Africa
“I am passionate about this theme. It has many dimensi- has various working groups, including the Women’s
3 Seed project offers equality for
ons and I find the combination between the social and Economic Empowerment (WEE) working group. Since women farmers
economic aspects interesting. I am convinced that the end of 2020, we have co-chaired this working
investing in the position of women is a good strategy for group, together with the Swiss Agency for Development 4 Social impact entrepreneur
poverty alleviation, and I feel committed to contribute.” and Cooperation (SDC). On the DCED WEE Knowledge Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
Page interesting studies are collected, and here you will together Moroccan craftman-
Which publications would you recommend to readers also find Webinars. Take a look! ship and sustainable fashion
who want to find out more about gender?
5 More and more female
“We have published several documents on our website
experts deployed in DSS crisis
with relevant background information on gender.”
response
• Information webpage about gender on our website. 6 Dutch bag brand sets up
To be eligible for financing an entrepreneur has to meet Fairtrade production in
a number of conditions in the field of corporate social Bangladesh
responsibility. This includes the topic of gender. On this
webpage you will find more information. 7 Gender in the new positioning
of the Netherlands
• Brochure Violence & Harassment at Work: A Guide for
8 The coronavirus pandemic as
SMEs to prevent Violence & Harassment at the an accelerator for health care
workplace. This brochure looks at the different forms technology
of violence in the workplace and identifies lessons
learned from various perspectives. It offers practical tips 9 “You do not woo clients like
on how companies can prevent, detect, identify and Google: they come to you”
tackle it. We have developed this brochure in coopera-
10 Virtual Coffee with
the Ambassador 8
Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
Enterprise Agency projects:
from Gender Aware to Gender
Transformative
2 Fair land rights for women in
Africa
2 Fair land rights for women in Africa
The Dutch government is keen to leverage Dutch know-
3 Seed project offers equality for
women farmers
4 Social impact entrepreneur
Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
ledge and skills worldwide to contribute to global food together Moroccan craftman-
security and sustainable agriculture. Fair land rights is a ship and sustainable fashion
precondition for farmers to invest in land and thereby
5 More and more female
increase sustainable productivity. The LAND-at-scale
experts deployed in DSS crisis
programme is dedicated to promoting fair, inclusive and response
sustainable land rights. These efforts include special
attention for vulnerable groups such as women. 6 Dutch bag brand sets up
Fairtrade production in
Bangladesh
7 Gender in the new positioning
of the Netherlands
8 The coronavirus pandemic as
an accelerator for health care
technology
9 “You do not woo clients like
Google: they come to you”
10 Virtual Coffee with
the Ambassador 9
Interview Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
sets out all kinds of basic rights, such as equal rights for Enterprise Agency projects:
men and women. But in many rural communities, a from Gender Aware to Gender
system known as customary law may still be in place. Transformative
This set of laws consists of ancient cultural customs that,
2 Fair land rights for women in
Africa
“We have set a high bar for ourselves
3 Seed project offers equality for
because we are not interested in women farmers
going for quick wins. It is the longer- 4 Social impact entrepreneur
term in particular that interests us Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
together Moroccan craftman-
– in other words, projects that cause ship and sustainable fashion
change at a deeper level.’’ 5 More and more female
Thomas Vintges, project advisor for LAND-at-scale
experts deployed in DSS crisis
response
What is the problem? over time, have been adopted as traditional law. As it
Thomas Vintges, project adviser for LAND-at-scale, happens, customary law – and the rules governing 6 Dutch bag brand sets up
explains, “In many African countries, but also in Asia and inheritance and families in particular – tend to be unfa- Fairtrade production in
South America, different legal systems exist side by side. vourable to women. It is possible, for example, that Bangladesh
On the one hand, you have the overarching national following the death of her husband, a woman is barred
legislation. This is often a very modern set of laws that from inheriting the piece of land where she has lived and 7 Gender in the new positioning
of the Netherlands
8 The coronavirus pandemic as
Fair, inclusive and sustainable land rights are needed to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) an accelerator for health care
of the United Nations. The LAND-at-scale programme supports the improvement of land governance. technology
LAND-at-scale provides assignments and subsidies to carry out ideas, while also sharing knowledge.
Delegates from Dutch embassies and agricultural attachés can submit relevant ideas to the Netherlands 9 “You do not woo clients like
Enterprise Agency. Google: they come to you”
10 Virtual Coffee with
the Ambassador 10Interview Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
worked, along with her husband and children, for so many What makes LAND-at-scale so unique when it comes to Enterprise Agency projects:
years. Simply because customary law dictates that land gender? from Gender Aware to Gender
can only be passed from one man to another.” “All of this obviously calls for a long-term strategy. Transformative
Altering the administrative and legislative framework is
What issues does LAND-at-scale hope to address? not something you do overnight. This makes LAND-at- 2 Fair land rights for women in
“The LAND-at-scale programme helps women expand scale different from the Netherlands Enterprise Agency’s Africa
their rights and improve their economic positions. At the regular programmes, in which projects typically last 4
3 Seed project offers equality for
national level, we do this by strengthening the admini- years or less. We have set a high bar for ourselves because women farmers
strative framework, such as the relevant ministries or we are not interested in going for quick wins. It is the
local land registries, and improving the legal framework in longer-term in particular that interests us – in other 4 Social impact entrepreneur
a given country. This includes improvements to policies words, projects that cause change at a deeper level.” Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
and the implementation of those policies.” together Moroccan craftman-
Where gender is concerned, LAND-at-scale might be the ship and sustainable fashion
At the local level, LAND-at-scale seeks out opportunities first Netherlands Enterprise Agency programme that
5 More and more female
to cooperate with what are known as municipal land attempts to change the system. “Obviously, we did not
experts deployed in DSS crisis
agencies. These are the administrative bodies that figure this all out on our own – that would allow for too
response
register land and land ownership. Because such bodies many blind spots. When the programme was being set up
are familiar with customary law, they are in a position to in 2018, we solicited feedback from several Dutch univer- 6 Dutch bag brand sets up
speed up the transition from customary law to formal law. sities and NGOs – including Both Ends, Oxfam and Fairtrade production in
This might mean drawing attention to land rights for ActionAid – at an early stage. Bangladesh
women, for example, or supporting women in exercising
their rights. That was fairly unique and was also highly appreciated. 7 Gender in the new positioning
Our chosen approach ensures all parties involved have
of the Netherlands
“Yet, the gap between having rights and actually exercising realistic expectations in terms of the outcome of a given
8 The coronavirus pandemic as
those rights still holds many challenges. For this reason, LAND-at-scale project. Another big advantage is that we an accelerator for health care
LAND-at-scale supports land agencies by providing now have open channels of communication with those technology
information and capacity training. In doing so, it is organisations. This enables us to exchange knowledge,
important that we focus not only on the women but that networks and experiences with one another easily.” 9 “You do not woo clients like
we make sure to involve the men as well.” Google: they come to you”
10 Virtual Coffee with
the Ambassador 11Interview Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
Where are you at now with the LAND-at-scale project? Enterprise Agency projects:
“After 1.5 years, we have developed 13 projects. from Gender Aware to Gender
We approved the first LAND-at-scale project at the end of Transformative
2020. This project was submitted by the Dutch embassy in
Zimbabwe. The goal is to assist the national agencies that 2 Fair land rights for women in
are responsible for land rights and land ownership policies Africa
in carrying out reforms. Such reforms will especially benefit
3 Seed project offers equality for
women and young people living in regions in Zimbabwe women farmers
where conflicts regarding land ownership and land rights
are common. For this project, we cooperated with the Food 4 Social impact entrepreneur
and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
It is fantastic that such a renowned organisation has together Moroccan craftman-
aligned itself with this project to ensure its continued ship and sustainable fashion
implementation. This is sure to enhance the continuity of
5 More and more female
this project.”
experts deployed in DSS crisis
response
Look here for more information about the LAND-at-scale
programme. 6 Dutch bag brand sets up
Fairtrade production in
Bangladesh
7 Gender in the new positioning
of the Netherlands
8 The coronavirus pandemic as
an accelerator for health care
technology
9 “You do not woo clients like
Google: they come to you”
10 Virtual Coffee with
the Ambassador 12Interview Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
Enterprise Agency projects:
from Gender Aware to Gender
Transformative
2 Fair land rights for women in
Africa
3 Seed project offers equality for
women farmers
4 Social impact entrepreneur
Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
together Moroccan craftman-
ship and sustainable fashion
5 More and more female
3
experts deployed in DSS crisis
response
Seed project offers equality for women farmers 6 Dutch bag brand sets up
A large portion of the farmers in developing countries grow crops primarily for their Fairtrade production in
own use. Women farmers play an important role here: they work the land and sell Bangladesh
the surplus, tomatoes, onions or corn, for example, at their local markets. Despite 7 Gender in the new positioning
this major role, however, women farmers are often barely involved in the financial of the Netherlands
decision-making on their farms.
8 The coronavirus pandemic as
an accelerator for health care
technology
9 “You do not woo clients like
Google: they come to you”
10 Virtual Coffee with
Men and women together receive agricultural training the Ambassador 13Video and case story Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
Enterprise Agency projects:
“The women do most of the work in from Gender Aware to Gender
Transformative
the fields, but the men make the
decisions. To solve this dilemma, 2 Fair land rights for women in
Africa
we trained men and women at the
3 Seed project offers equality for
same time.” women farmers
4 Social impact entrepreneur
Attention for women farmers Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
With support from the Facility for Sustainable together Moroccan craftman-
Entrepreneurship and Food Security (FDOV), the Dutch ship and sustainable fashion
seed companies East West International and Rijk Zwaan, “The women do most of the work in the fields, but the
5 More and more female
together with Wageningen Environmental Research, have men make the decisions. To solve this dilemma, we
experts deployed in DSS crisis
set up the Seeds of Expertise for the Vegetable Industry of trained men and women at the same time. We also set up
response
Africa (SEVIA) project. This partnership has developed demonstration fields specifically for groups of women,
better seeds that are ideal for local conditions. The project so that they could put the knowledge into practice right 6 Dutch bag brand sets up
included special attention for women farmers. away,” says Elijah Mwashayenyi, director of the SEVIA Fairtrade production in
project. Bangladesh
7 Gender in the new positioning
The Facility for Sustainable Entrepreneurship and Food Security (FDOV) encourages public-private partner- of the Netherlands
ships in the field of food security and private sector development in developing countries. Since 2020, the 8 The coronavirus pandemic as
FDOV is integrated in the new SDG Partnership facility (SDGP). The goal of SDGP is to improve food security an accelerator for health care
and stimulate private sector development in development countries through public-private partnerships. technology
9 “You do not woo clients like
Google: they come to you”
10 Virtual Coffee with
the Ambassador 14Video and case story Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
Economic independence Enterprise Agency projects:
On these small demonstration plots, both men and from Gender Aware to Gender
women farmers were trained on the improved seeds and Transformative
the corresponding techniques. Elijah states: “This know-
ledge enables the farmers to achieve better crop yields 2 Fair land rights for women in
and earn more money.” At the same time, the training Africa
course helped achieve greater equality for the women
3 Seed project offers equality for
farmers, which in turn contributed to more economic women farmers
independence. “When the economic independence of a
women farmer increases, the entire family benefits and 4 Social impact entrepreneur
their overall living conditions improve,” Elijah Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
Mwashayenyi concludes proudly. together Moroccan craftman-
ship and sustainable fashion
Watch the video about the SEVIA-project: Or read the testimony Tanzania welcomes better seeds
5 More and more female
and agricultural training.
experts deployed in DSS crisis
response
6 Dutch bag brand sets up
Fairtrade production in
Bangladesh
7 Gender in the new positioning
of the Netherlands
8 The coronavirus pandemic as
an accelerator for health care
technology
9 “You do not woo clients like
Google: they come to you”
10 Virtual Coffee with
the Ambassador 15Interview Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
Enterprise Agency projects:
from Gender Aware to Gender
Transformative
4
2 Fair land rights for women in
Africa
Social impact company 3 Seed project offers equality for
uses Moroccan women farmers
craftsmanship for 4 Social impact entrepreneur
Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
sustainable fashion together Moroccan craftman-
ship and sustainable fashion
Casablanca, one of the oldest cities in
5 More and more female
Morocco, is famous for its beautiful and experts deployed in DSS crisis
elegant wealth of colours and patterns. response
The craftsmanship one encounters on
every street corner in the city is proof of 6 Dutch bag brand sets up
Fairtrade production in
the rich heritage of traditional trades. Bangladesh
But, the rise of mass production has made
it more difficult for women to convert 7 Gender in the new positioning
of the Netherlands
their artisanal skills into profitable
businesses. 8 The coronavirus pandemic as
an accelerator for health care
technology
9 “You do not woo clients like
Google: they come to you”
10 Virtual Coffee with
Women practices the traditional weaving technique in Morocco the Ambassador 16Interview Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
"The self-confidence of these women Enterprise Agency projects:
has grown enormously. They are from Gender Aware to Gender
Transformative
extremely proud of their work. They
2 Fair land rights for women in
experience a sense of independence, Africa
freedom and usefulness.” 3 Seed project offers equality for
women farmers
Business owners Fadwa Moussaif and Amal Kenzari
decided to combine their efforts to make a difference. 4 Social impact entrepreneur
They visited several villages near Casablanca and spoke to Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
the local communities. They concluded that 20% of the together Moroccan craftman-
women in the villages had worked as a weaver in the past, ship and sustainable fashion
but were no longer active in the trade. By combining local
5 More and more female
craftsmanship with contemporary fashion and adding a
experts deployed in DSS crisis
dash of entrepreneurial spirit, IDYR was born!
response
Products for everyday use 6 Dutch bag brand sets up
IDYR is a Moroccan brand that is breathing new life into Fairtrade production in
Fadwa Moussaif, co-founder of IDYR the traditional Boucherouite weaving technique and its Bangladesh
accompanying values. The brand creates 100% handmade,
ethical, sustainable and modern fashion accessories. 7 Gender in the new positioning
of the Netherlands
8 The coronavirus pandemic as
The programme Orange Corners focuses on young entrepreneurs in Africa and the Middle East. They can an accelerator for health care
receive necessary training, mentorship, masterclasses and access to networks and financing, in order to grow technology
their business idea into a successful start-up. Orange Corners partners with local governments, universities,
national and international companies and other organisations. By using their local expertise, Orange Corners 9 “You do not woo clients like
can optimally support and strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Google: they come to you”
10 Virtual Coffee with
the Ambassador 17Interview Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
IDYR designs and makes products for everyday use, with Proud of their work Enterprise Agency projects:
respect for the environment and the social conditions of At IDYR, we offer these women a flexible work schedule from Gender Aware to Gender
the women artisans. To do this, IDYR collects and cleans and a worksite close to where they live. We also train Transformative
fabric remnants from large clothing and textile factories. them to develop their skills, so that they can practise the
IDYR then has the women in the villages make beautiful Boucherouite weaving technique for us at a high-quality 2 Fair land rights for women in
products from it, such as handbags, carpets, clothing and level. As a result, the self-confidence of these women has Africa
cushions. In doing so, IDYR has already recycled an grown enormously and they are extremely proud of their
3 Seed project offers equality for
average of 4.2 tonnes of textiles. work. They experience a sense of independence, freedom women farmers
and usefulness.
4 Social impact entrepreneur
Charitable cause Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
Unfortunately, as a result of COVID-19, many business together Moroccan craftman-
activities have ceased, including the training of women. ship and sustainable fashion
Also, the demand for fashion accessories has dropped
5 More and more female
which has a major impact on the local communities.
experts deployed in DSS crisis
Fadwa and Amal decided to sell their new collection
response
online, including through crowdfunding campaign Wuluj,
with the aim of raising 30,000 dirhams (approximately 6 Dutch bag brand sets up
2,800 euros). The goal has been far exceeded, with more Fairtrade production in
than 100 families now receiving financial support. Bangladesh
Watch the whole interview with Fadwa Moussaif. 7 Gender in the new positioning
of the Netherlands
8 The coronavirus pandemic as
an accelerator for health care
technology
9 “You do not woo clients like
Google: they come to you”
10 Virtual Coffee with
the Ambassador 18Interview Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
Enterprise Agency projects:
from Gender Aware to Gender
Transformative
2 Fair land rights for women in
Africa
3 Seed project offers equality for
women farmers
4 Social impact entrepreneur
Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
together Moroccan craftman-
ship and sustainable fashion
5 More and more female
experts deployed in DSS crisis
response
5
6 Dutch bag brand sets up
Fairtrade production in
More and more female experts deployed in DSS Bangladesh
crisis response 7 Gender in the new positioning
of the Netherlands
The Dutch Surge Support (DSS) water programme offers humanitarian aid in disaster
situations. DSS employs mostly Dutch aquatic experts to mitigate the consequences 8 The coronavirus pandemic as
an accelerator for health care
of disasters. DSS experts specialise in preventing disasters, preparing for them, and technology
recovering from them. Traditionally, many men work in the humanitarian water
sector. The last few years, however, DSS has employed and increasing amount of 9 “You do not woo clients like
women in crisis situations. Google: they come to you”
10 Virtual Coffee with
the Ambassador 19
MHPSS-expert Teresa Ombalo from KenyaCase story Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
“As a woman, you have to make sure Work as passion Enterprise Agency projects:
“As a woman, you have to make sure you are on top of the
you are on top of the security situation security situation and curfew hours,” Teresa Ombalo says.
from Gender Aware to Gender
Transformative
and curfew hours.” “But most challenges and opportunities for women and
men are pretty much equal. I do this work because it is my 2 Fair land rights for women in
DSS connects experts, specialised in water management passion, and I love it. I have met many men and women Africa
and crisis response, to humanitarian organisations who are passionate about their work.”
3 Seed project offers equality for
currently providing aid. These experts are often Dutch and women farmers
work in crisis areas around the world on behalf of DSS. Show results
Over the past few years, more and more of these experts One of her main challenges is making sure people 4 Social impact entrepreneur
have been women. understand what mental health is. “There is no magical Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
pill to make people feel better,” Teresa Ombalo says. “I together Moroccan craftman-
MHPSS have to convince people that they have to participate to ship and sustainable fashion
In 2020, DSS launched a new programme to offer mental get better. Many people in Africa do not have the same
5 More and more female
healthcare and psychosocial support (MHPSS) to people frame of reference with regards to mental health and Post
experts deployed in DSS crisis
in disaster areas. This programme also employs experts in Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).”
response
crisis areas to coordinate and support the MHPSS aid.
The Power of MHPSS 6 Dutch bag brand sets up
The number of women employed within the MHPSS That is why Ombalo stresses it is so important to stay up Fairtrade production in
programme is almost equal to the number of men. For to date in her field of work. “People have to see the Bangladesh
example, the Kenyan expert Teresa Ombalo moved to results of your work,” Teresa Ombalo says. “They will
Ethiopia for the MHPSS programme. There, she worked on recognise your expertise. So you have to know your stuff. 7 Gender in the new positioning
fostering public support for the measures taken against Focus on your strength, and the strength of MHPSS, and
of the Netherlands
COVID-19. Working from the capital of Addis Ababa, she build on that. Stay on top of your game, every day.”
8 The coronavirus pandemic as
quickly set up an effective policy to curb the spread of the an accelerator for health care
disease. Read more about DSS-expert Teresa Ombalo’s story. technology
9 “You do not woo clients like
The Dutch Surge Support (DSS) water programme responds to calls for water-related disaster relief, by
deploying Dutch expertise. Experts from DSS use their knowledge to prevent disasters, make the right prepa- Google: they come to you”
rations, or to facilitate fast recovery. Traditionally, it is mostly men that work in the humanitarian water sector,
but in the last few years, more and more women are deployed in emergency areas on behalf of DSS. 10 Virtual Coffee with
the Ambassador 20Interview Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
Enterprise Agency projects:
from Gender Aware to Gender
Transformative
2 Fair land rights for women in
Africa
3 Seed project offers equality for
women farmers
4 Social impact entrepreneur
Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
together Moroccan craftman-
ship and sustainable fashion
5 More and more female
experts deployed in DSS crisis
6
response
Dutch bag brand sets up Fairtrade 6 Dutch bag brand sets up
production in Bangladesh Fairtrade production in
Bangladesh
MYoMY makes luxury handbags in India in a responsible manner. 7 Gender in the new positioning
The brand is very successful, which explains why the Dutch company of the Netherlands
has now opened a second production location in Bangladesh.
8 The coronavirus pandemic as
“Without prefinancing from the Netherlands Enterprise Agency’s an accelerator for health care
International Financing programme, I would not have taken this step.” technology
9 “You do not woo clients like
Google: they come to you”
10 Virtual Coffee with
Taslima Miji (r) in her leather factory in Bangladesh the Ambassador 21Video and case story Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
Marja Baas, the owner of MYoMY, noticed that manufac- with Taslima. “But setting up a new production line for Enterprise Agency projects:
turers in the fashion industry did not always follow the leather bags calls for huge amounts of time and money. from Gender Aware to Gender
principles of corporate social responsibility – far from it, I knew this because of my existing partnership in India. Transformative
in fact. “I saw an opportunity to contribute in that area by That was an experience I was not at all eager to repeat.”
making luxury handbags. That was the start of ‘MYoMY 2 Fair land rights for women in
do goods’, a brand that makes sustainable leather bags Africa
and accessories. MYoMY focuses on good working and "I was aware of the terrible working 3 Seed project offers equality for
living conditions at the local production facilities in India
and Bangladesh.”
conditions there, as well as the women farmers
oppression faced by women. 4 Social impact entrepreneur
Tannery in Bangladesh Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
In 2017, the growth of the MYoMY brand created a need I wanted to make a difference." together Moroccan craftman-
for a second production location. Marja read a research ship and sustainable fashion
report about the awful conditions in the leather industry At a conference in Albania, Marja found herself talking
5 More and more female
in Bangladesh. “I asked the author of the report if he to an adviser from the Netherlands Enterprise Agency.
experts deployed in DSS crisis
knew of a project that could use some extra support,” They told her about the possibilities for support from the
response
Marja says. The author directed her to Taslima Miji, Netherlands Enterprise Agency’s International Financing
a female entrepreneur who owns the small tannery programme. The Netherlands Enterprise Agency provides 6 Dutch bag brand sets up
Leatherina in Bangladesh. “I was aware of the terrible support to Dutch businesses looking to invest in or import Fairtrade production in
working conditions there, as well as the oppression faced goods from developing countries. MYoMY benefited from Bangladesh
by women. I wanted to make a difference.” the Dutch Good Growth Fund Technical Assistance
programme. “It allowed me to pay for consultants of 7 Gender in the new positioning
Setting up a production line my choosing, who I hired to buy the hides and provide
of the Netherlands
After an initial test order, Marja decided to continue working training and coaching to Taslima and her employees.
8 The coronavirus pandemic as
an accelerator for health care
technology
The Dutch Good Growth Fund (DGGF) thinks it is of crucial importance that Dutch and local entrepreneurs in
emerging economies and developing countries have the opportunity to work in a corporate social responsi- 9 “You do not woo clients like
ble way. By increasing the access to financing for entrepreneurs and investors, DGGF connects aid and trade. Google: they come to you”
10 Virtual Coffee with
the Ambassador 22Video and case story Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
I also received prefinancing for the first shipping container grow into a leading producer. With a secure future for Enterprise Agency projects:
of bags.” hundreds of people. from Gender Aware to Gender
Transformative
Leatherina is also one of the companies participating in the Watch the interview with Marja Baas en Taslima Miji:
CBI project that helps Bangladeshi companies export to 2 Fair land rights for women in
Europe. Due to COVID-19, a market orientation to Europe Africa
was cancelled, but the partnership with MYoMY secured
3 Seed project offers equality for
the largest order the company had ever had. Leatherina women farmers
took appropriate measures for social distancing and was
able to continue production in these difficult times. 4 Social impact entrepreneur
Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
New jobs together Moroccan craftman-
Both entrepreneurs managed to set up a full production ship and sustainable fashion
line in 10 months. The bags are now in 200 shops in the
5 More and more female
Netherlands and abroad. A dream has come true, accor-
experts deployed in DSS crisis
ding to Marja. “Especially because we now have almost 45
response
people working in a safe, protected environment in
Bangladesh. More than half of them are women. Without 6 Dutch bag brand sets up
the Netherlands Enterprise Agency, I would never have Fairtrade production in
dared to do this.” CBI is currently helping Leatherina Bangladesh
increase its buyer portfolio, as dependence on one buyer
can be a risk. The expectation is that this company will 7 Gender in the new positioning
of the Netherlands
8 The coronavirus pandemic as
an accelerator for health care
The Centre for the Promotion of Imports from developing countries (CBI) supports the transition to inclusive technology
and sustainable economies. With the aim of strengthening the economic, social and environmental sustaina-
bility of local SMEs, through the export of products and services to European and regional markets. 9 “You do not woo clients like
Google: they come to you”
10 Virtual Coffee with
the Ambassador 23Interview Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
Enterprise Agency projects:
from Gender Aware to Gender
Transformative
2 Fair land rights for women in
Africa
3 Seed project offers equality for
women farmers
4 Social impact entrepreneur
Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
together Moroccan craftman-
ship and sustainable fashion
7 Gender in the new positioning of the
Netherlands
5 More and more female
experts deployed in DSS crisis
response
6 Dutch bag brand sets up
Fairtrade production in
NL Branding strives to enhance the Netherlands’ international
Bangladesh
reputation as a cooperation partner in efforts to address
global societal challenges. In 2020 the new positioning of the 7 Gender in the new positioning
Netherlands was launched, with ‘collaboration’ as a premise. of the Netherlands
In this new strategy, inclusivity and gender play an important 8 The coronavirus pandemic as
role. an accelerator for health care
technology
9 “You do not woo clients like
Google: they come to you”
10 Virtual Coffee with
Eva de Vries (l) and Deniece Reith (r) from NL Branding the Ambassador 24Interview Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
Can you tell us something about the work you do at NL “We plan to expand the toolkit with Enterprise Agency projects:
Branding?
Deniece Reith, senior communication adviser at NL
more first-hand accounts involving from Gender Aware to Gender
Transformative
Branding states, “Although NL Branding is an initiative of top sectors where successful women
the Dutch ministry of Foreign Affairs, a growing number 2 Fair land rights for women in
of other ministries use our team as well. For example, we
entrepreneurs are playing a leading Africa
recently launched an important campaign for the Dutch role.” 3 Seed project offers equality for
ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality. women farmers
attractive cooperation partner. In addition, the
These projects always involve close cooperation with our Netherlands is eager to work with more parties in efforts 4 Social impact entrepreneur
partners. Those partners might be top sectors like to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. This is not Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
agri-food, the creative industry or maritime & water, but only good for the world, but for us as well, because it will together Moroccan craftman-
they can also be sector associations like NBTC Holland promote trade and investment. To that end, gender is an ship and sustainable fashion
Marketing. Within these partnerships, we work to important theme for the Dutch government. Gender also
5 More and more female
safeguard the positioning of the Netherlands, both in fits quite well within the context of our new positioning.”
experts deployed in DSS crisis
terms of content and when designing marketing
response
materials.” Which specific actions do you plan to take this year?
Eva de Vries, account manager at NL Branding, answers, 6 Dutch bag brand sets up
In what way does NL Branding take gender into account? “For the purposes of this new positioning, we have set up Fairtrade production in
“Last year, we launched the new positioning campaign for a new platform called NL Platform. On this platform, you Bangladesh
the Netherlands, which is completely centred on coopera- can see exactly how the Netherlands presents itself to the
tion. Dutch people are renowned for their open, inventive outside world. We have also developed a new toolkit that 7 Gender in the new positioning
and inclusive way of working, which makes our country an includes stories, templates and visuals that the embassies
of the Netherlands
8 The coronavirus pandemic as
an accelerator for health care
The Netherlands contributes to peace, sustainability, international justice and knowledge sharing at an inter- technology
national level. In addition, the Netherlands promotes actions based on a shared conviction that the only way
to resolve global challenges is to work together. The NL Branding department of the Netherlands Enterprise 9 “You do not woo clients like
Agency strives to enhance the Netherlands’ international reputation as a cooperation partner in efforts to Google: they come to you”
address global societal challenges, as set out in the Sustainable Development Goals, known as the SDGs.
10 Virtual Coffee with
the Ambassador 25Interview Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
and our partners can use to convey the NL strategy. We What is your personal experience with gender issues? Enterprise Agency projects:
plan to expand the toolkit with more first-hand accounts Eva answers, “Within some departments at the from Gender Aware to Gender
involving top sectors where successful women entrepre- Netherlands Enterprise Agency, there is still progress to be Transformative
neurs are playing a leading role, for example, because made. For a PIB dealing with fruit farming in Kazakhstan,
they initiated a partnership within one of those top for example, I was asked to come up with a positioning 2 Fair land rights for women in
sectors. By sharing their stories, these women can serve message. I was the only woman at a table with 12 men. Africa
as a role model for other women.” That makes you think, My profession is still a man’s
3 Seed project offers equality for
world, too.” women farmers
“We also intend to add more visual material to the NL
Platform and our toolkit, particularly images that focus on Luckily, Eva sees positive developments in her professio- 4 Social impact entrepreneur
the human aspect. Great-looking photos of powerful nal field as well. “I happen to know that the Chilean Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
women, such as those in management positions, would embassy now only accepts invitations to take part in a together Moroccan craftman-
obviously make for good content. In this way, we can add panel if that panel includes women. Something like that ship and sustainable fashion
substance to our new positioning by emphasising makes me very happy.”
5 More and more female
inclusive leadership.”
experts deployed in DSS crisis
response
How does the gender theme reflect in the PIB projects?
The public-private partnerships managed by the 6 Dutch bag brand sets up
Netherlands Enterprise Agency, which are referred to as Fairtrade production in
Partners for International Business (PIB), are an important Bangladesh
concern within NL Branding. Each of these partnerships
between the government and the business community is www.nbtc.nl 7 Gender in the new positioning
linked to a specific theme or top sector. Deniece conti-
of the Netherlands
nues: “These PIBs offer another opportunity for us to
8 The coronavirus pandemic as
show more examples of women taking on important an accelerator for health care
roles. If our texts and images portray women as powerful technology
individuals, it will hopefully inspire other women to take
on these roles of their own.” 9 “You do not woo clients like
Google: they come to you”
10 Virtual Coffee with
the Ambassador 26Interview Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
Enterprise Agency projects:
from Gender Aware to Gender
Transformative
2 Fair land rights for women in
Africa
3 Seed project offers equality for
women farmers
4 Social impact entrepreneur
Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
8
together Moroccan craftman-
ship and sustainable fashion
The coronavirus pandemic as an accelerator for 5 More and more female
health care technology experts deployed in DSS crisis
response
For the second time, the Netherlands finds itself in lockdown. Nursing home
6 Dutch bag brand sets up
residents can only see few visitors. Loneliness and physical and mental decline Fairtrade production in
are real threats, especially for patients with dementia. In the current period, Bangladesh
health care technologies that can offer them movement, contact and a sense of
stability are more relevant than ever. Entrepreneur Hester Le Riche is the CEO 7 Gender in the new positioning
of the Netherlands
and founder of Tover (previously Active Cues). Tover took a conscious decision to
invest heavily during the current crisis. As a result, the company has experienced 8 The coronavirus pandemic as
significant growth. an accelerator for health care
technology
9 “You do not woo clients like
Google: they come to you”
With the ‘Tovertafel’ interactive games are projected on a table
10 Virtual Coffee with
the Ambassador 27Interview Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
“Even before the coronavirus Enterprise Agency projects:
from Gender Aware to Gender
pandemic, we began taking our first Transformative
steps abroad with the help of the 2 Fair land rights for women in
Netherlands Enterprise Agency’s Africa
business partner scans, trade 3 Seed project offers equality for
women farmers
missions and network.”
4 Social impact entrepreneur
2020, all the residents were suddenly locked up, as it Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
were. No more visitors, no more activities. Everything that together Moroccan craftman-
offered them routine and structure vanished overnight.” ship and sustainable fashion
Now more than ever, it is vital that dementia patients
5 More and more female
Hester Le Riche, CEO and founder of Tover keep moving. Movement improves both cognitive
experts deployed in DSS crisis
function and blood circulation. This, in turn, helps keep
response
Movement is crucial distress and passivity at bay. While exercise cannot stop
The Tovertafel (Magic Table) is a beamer that projects the progression of dementia, there is some evidence that 6 Dutch bag brand sets up
interactive games onto a tabletop. These games encourage it does slow it down. Fairtrade production in
dementia patients to get some exercise. Hester explains, Bangladesh
“Five years ago, we came up with the Tovertafel as a way to Online and interactive around the globe
contribute to a loving and inclusive world. It is a means to Asked to describe the coronavirus pandemic in a single 7 Gender in the new positioning
amaze and activate while also supporting care providers. word, Hester answers, “Acceleration. What we can offer
of the Netherlands
When the nursing homes had to close their doors in March people through the Tovertafel is more relevant than ever
8 The coronavirus pandemic as
an accelerator for health care
technology
'Groei over grenzen' (Growth beyond borders) is an ongoing campaign from the Dutch Ministry of Foreign
Affairs and the Netherlands Enterprise Agency. In this campaign, Dutch women entrepreneurs are stimulated to 9 “You do not woo clients like
realise their international ambitions. The Netherlands Enterprise Agency does this by promoting participation Google: they come to you”
in missions, organising (online) network events, conducting campaigns and putting inspiring Dutch women
10 Virtual Coffee with
entrepreneurs in the spotlight.
the Ambassador 28Interview Table of contents
Foreword
1
Gender in Netherlands
right now.” This explains Tover’s decision to make a drastic avenues. Despite everything, this will enable them to Enterprise Agency projects:
change to how it operates. It made all its games directly continue helping patients and hopefully arrive at even from Gender Aware to Gender
available to users. Also, the company introduced an online better health care solutions in the long term. Transformative
environment that offers digital support and guidance to
care providers. Hester explains: “Normally, we would visit During the first wave of the coronavirus pandemic, 2 Fair land rights for women in
nursing homes to show and install the product and to the Dutch Alzheimer’s Association partnered with the Africa
provide technical support. Now, however, carers can Amsterdam Alzheimer Center and Pharos to study how
3 Seed project offers equality for
complete online training courses and watch an interactive the measures to control the spread of the virus were women farmers
video demonstration at their convenience. This saves a affecting people with dementia and their informal
great deal of time – which is a precious commodity in the caregivers. Their research revealed that social isolation 4 Social impact entrepreneur
health care sector.” and behavioural and psychological problems were Fadwa Moussaif is bringing
common with dementia patients. together Moroccan craftman-
"The online environment helps Tover support new clients ship and sustainable fashion
as well. These include nursing homes in not only the Closing the nursing homes to visitors had a serious impact
5 More and more female
Netherlands but all around the globe. The challenges we on elderly residents. The new socially-distanced society
experts deployed in DSS crisis
address are everywhere: the number of dementia patients resulted in feelings of loneliness and distress in older
response
worldwide is increasing by millions each year. Even before people. For dementia patients, such loneliness can have a
the coronavirus pandemic, we began taking our first steps negative effect on both their behaviour and quality of life. 6 Dutch bag brand sets up
abroad with the help of the Netherlands Enterprise Their family, friends and carers are often an important Fairtrade production in
Agency’s business partner scans, trade missions and source of comfort and safety. Those contact moments offer Bangladesh
network,” Hester continues. them the stability and structure they so desperately need.
7 Gender in the new positioning
But in a country like Australia it can be hard to just pop Read more about the Growth beyond borders campaign
of the Netherlands
round to give a demonstration. Hester explains, “The (in Dutch).
8 The coronavirus pandemic as
digital learning environment has proven useful for an accelerator for health care
countries like that and makes it easier to offer remote technology
support. As a result, we now do business in 14 different
countries.” The end of the pandemic is not yet in sight. 9 “You do not woo clients like
At the same time, the coronavirus pandemic is forcing Google: they come to you”
health care technology developers to explore new
10 Virtual Coffee with
the Ambassador 29You can also read
