Gunjur, The Gambia – November 1, 2024
The BE REEL ‘Julaya-Silo’ program, a groundbreaking initiative that supports women entrepreneurs in Gunjur, has officially launched its third cohort. After positive evaluations of its first two cohorts, BE REEL is set to make an even greater impact by extending this seldom-seen opportunity to more women from the community, including the local women’s vendor market group known as Rennwalle. With a strong focus on financial empowerment and business skills, this six-week program seeks to drive economic growth at a grassroots level and foster sustainable wealth for women in the region.
The Julaya-Silo program — which translates to “empower through business” in Mandinka —provides an in-depth, participant-centered approach to learning. Designed for entrepreneurs who may lack formal education, the program equips participants with practical skills necessary for running a microbusiness, including budgeting, financial management, and differentiating between personal and business income. These core skills are vital for building sustainable business models and maximising income potential, ultimately enhancing participants’ livelihoods and contributing to local economic development.
A Program Tailored for Inclusivity and Community Impact
BE REEL’s commitment to inclusivity is deeply woven into the structure of the Julaya-Silo program. Every aspect of the program is delivered in strict adherence to BE REEL’s inclusion and equality policy, which guarantees full accommodation and support for all participants, regardless of their background or educational level. This commitment is essential in a community where many women entrepreneurs may face barriers due to limited access to formal education.
This year’s program is conducted in the Mandinka language, fostering accessibility and understanding within the Gunjur community. Leading the training is Ms. Mansey Jabang-Janneh, a distinguished young entrepreneur who serves as the BE REEL Programme Officer. Ms. Jabang-Janneh is supported by a local team, including Senior Programme Officer Lamin Ba Touray and Programme Director Buba K. Touray. Together, they ensure that the program is not only culturally relevant but also deeply responsive to the specific challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in the region.
“The Julaya-Silo program is a lifeline for many women in our community who want to support their families and make a mark in the business world,” says Ms. Jabang-Janneh. “Our goal is to empower these women with the knowledge and confidence they need to succeed.”
Collaboration, Knowledge Transfer, and Ongoing Support
In addition to the structured six-week training, BE REEL remains committed to providing ongoing support through regular individual support visits to each participant, ensuring they have the resources and guidance necessary to implement what they’ve learned. The training is delivered through a collaborative learning model, encouraging peer support and skills-sharing among participants. This approach allows women to learn from each other, fostering a supportive network that extends beyond the formal training period.
The program’s curriculum, developed and refined by BE REEL’s founders Dr. Nicolan Swan and Trevor Long, integrates years of academic and practical business expertise. Both Dr. Swan and Mr. Long are seasoned PhD lecturers and business consultants with over 30 years of experience, and they work closely with local staff to ensure the program’s relevance and effectiveness for Gunjur’s women entrepreneurs. Their commitment to knowledge transfer plays a significant role in equipping the BE REEL team and the broader community with vital skills that are key to the program’s success.
An Exciting Chapter for Women Entrepreneurs in Gunjur
The inclusion of Gunjur’s Rennwalle vendor market group in this year’s program adds an exciting dimension to Cohort 3. These vendors bring a wealth of practical experience and energy to the program, and their enthusiasm was palpable at the inaugural session held on November 1, 2024. Over the next six weeks, they will engage in hands-on workshops, interactive discussions, and skill-building exercises designed to transform their approach to business.
The Julaya-Silo program exemplifies BE REEL’s dedication to fostering an environment where women can thrive as entrepreneurs and community leaders. As BE REEL continues to expand its reach and impact, Cohort 3 signals a promising future for women’s economic empowerment in Gunjur.
About BE REEL Gambia
BE REEL Gambia is a community-focused organisation committed to creating opportunities for entrepreneurship, especially for women in underserved communities. With a strong foundation in inclusive learning, sustainable development, and economic empowerment, BE REEL has become a vital resource for women entrepreneurs in Gunjur and beyond. Through its Julaya-Silo program, BE REEL aims to drive long-lasting economic change, one business at a time.
For further information on the Julaya-Silo program, please contact:
Buba K. Touray
Programme Director, BE REEL Gambia
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