As the world celebrates International Women's Day with the theme "Invest in Women, Accelerate Progress," Hive Colab's commitment to this cause shines brightly through its diverse accelerator programs. The Hive Accelerator, Market for Youth Program, Youth Startup Academy Uganda, O-Farms, The Enabel program, the Uganda Youth Engine, Afrilabs, in collaboration with global and local partners such as International Trade Centre, Korea SMEs and Startup Agency, NITA Uganda, UNCDF, BOPINC, Village Capital, Argidius, GOAL and NORAD, have been pivotal in nurturing the dreams and ambitions of hundreds of female entrepreneurs. These initiatives are lifelines that did and continue to offer resources, mentorship, and the necessary networks to drive women to new heights in their entrepreneurial endeavours.

The impact of these programs on female youth in Uganda is significant and can not be underrated in realizing national and global economic development by all global citizens. By focusing on sectors where women are historically underrepresented, such as technology and business, Hive Colab is actively contributing to a more inclusive and diverse entrepreneurial ecosystem. Female youth who have passed through these programs like Phyllis Kyomuhendo, the exceptional Co-Founder, Director and Impact Lead of M-Scan who was honoured with the prestigious Women in Tech Award at the highly prestigious GITEX Africa Semi-Finals 2023 that happened from 31st May to 2nd June in Marrakech, Morocco, attributes her success to the transformational journey through Hive Colab’s accelerator programs, highlighting the confidence, skills, and opportunities that have driven her business forward. The success stories emerging from Hive Colab's initiatives serve as a testament to what can be achieved when investment in women is made a priority.

Behind the success of Hive Colab's efforts in empowering women is a formidable lady, Barbara Birungi Mutabazi, the Executive Director of Hive Colab. Her vision, leadership, and relentless dedication have been instrumental in steering these initiatives towards making a significant impact on the socio-economic development of Uganda. Barbara's work involves inspiring a generation of female leaders and entrepreneurs who are being equipped to navigate the challenges of the business world with grace and competence. Her role in shaping the future of women's empowerment in Uganda serves as a source of inspiration for many.

As we reflect on the theme of this year's International Women's Day, "Invest in Women, Accelerate Progress," it's clear that Hive Colab is committed in making this a reality. Through the hub’s comprehensive programs and the leadership of Barbara B. Mutabazi, Hive Colab is not just contributing to the narrative of women's empowerment but is actively shaping a future where women's contributions are recognized, celebrated, and integral to our collective progress. Hive Colab and the female youth beneficiaries underscores the immense potential that lies in investing in women, and it's a call to action for all to support and uplift the incredible women around us, in Uganda and beyond.