Women’s Day Message: Collaborate for Success

Jane Chircop and Angele Giuliano are two female entrepreneurs that have met years ago thanks to the EU funded project entitled FEMALE (Lifelong Learning Programme – Transfer of Innovation).

They were part of a group of business women that met regularly in order to learn from the experience of one another. These mentoring circles were small groups of up to five women from a variety of ages and backgrounds that came together thanks to the Foundation for Women Entrepreneurs.

Jane's business focused on real estate and way back in 2011 she had this great concept to create a special brand names Only Made in Malta and Only Made in Gozo that not only restores old houses, but keeps the Maltese traditional homes for future generations.

Angele and the whole mentoring circle helped Jane to improve on her ideas and gave her the boost she needed. Five years down the line Jane has successfully opened up different offices around Malta and Gozo and most importantly franchised the concept and opened up an office last week in Muscat Oman.

Angele's business was technology related however she wanted to build a social enterprise that makes the life of children with learning difficulties better.

iSmart was born and this solution is a tablet application that is an inclusive education software for helping students read and write. Students with dyslexia, ADHD and mild autism can use iSmart at home or in class.

Jane is now guiding Angele in opening up opportunities for iSmart in the Gulf area which is another challenge as the iSmart has to be changed into arabic language thanks to her contacts in Muscat Oman.

What goes around, comes around ... and these two women are an example of how business co-operation can be a win-win situation. To find other entrepreneurs who are interested in working together get in contact with the Foundation for Women Entrepreneurs on www.women.org.mt