The world is my chocolate éclair

There have been a lot of changes in Zurich since I first moved here in 1999, pregnant with my now-thirteen years old daughter Sarah: Zurich is more open and more fun to live in, and decidedly more expat-friendly; there are events, blogs, and even a magazine  geared towards expats and Zurich’s international community, and altogether definitely more resources than I could have imagined just a few years ago.

One of these events is coming up, and it is geared specifically towards women: I am talking of course about the Women’s Expo.

It is no mystery that women are considered the world’s most powerful consumers, representing up to 85% of consumer spending; and lest someone be tempted to say “it’s all those bags and shoes”, let’s not forget that wives and mothers are, more often than not, the ones making purchasing decisions for an entire household – purchases that go from groceries to birthday gifts for kids and adults alike, from wardrobe items for all members of the family to all that goes into socializing and entertaining , and anything in between!

It is no surprise then, than more and more merchants try to appeal to the ladies of the household. Unfortunately not all merchants have the budget or the chance to do that on a regular basis. Until now, that is.

Lisa Mundembe-Chuma, creator of Inspirational Woman magazine and member of the Executive Committee of the Professional Women’s Group of Zurich, has organized an event that combines supporting local women-owned businesses with networking, information and shopping opportunities.

Let’s hear from Lisa herself:

Why the Women’s Expo?

I realized that more and more women in Switzerland are starting businesses. An event for women to connect, promote collaboration, showcase & promote their businesses and build new relationships made sense. So the Women’s Expo was born.

I wanted to create an environment where women in business throughout Switzerland come together to meet each other and also meet face to face with the public to promote & showcase their businesses as well as build new relationships amongst themselves and the public; an environment where the public of Switzerland has the opportunity to know and learn more about different products or services from their owners, ask questions and get responses, try new products and give feedback, discover new and exciting products & services, connect with new people and have fun.

What can visitors expect?

The day is going to be full of action, from shopping opportunities all the way to free flowing networking. It will also include health scans, massages, makeovers, product testing, art displays… all attendees will also be eligible for entry in special giveaways and will receive special discounts, and there will be free face painting for the kids. 

Do you have any tips for women who would like to start their own business, but are at a loss as to where to begin?

I would want to encourage women who are thinking of starting their own businesses to connect with other women currently in business and ask them questions so you can see, and most importantly learn, how others are doing it. I would also encourage them to start from where they are right now and grow from there. There is nothing like the perfect time.

It is also very important to have a clear vision of what you want to do and to know exactly what you are trying not to do, clarity is key in business. Have two or three trusted people that believe in your idea and accountability buddies because they will help you to keep your goals. I would also encourage them to come to the women’s expo and connect with the exhibitors, I believe the environment will be very inspiring.

The Woman’s Expo will take place on May 26, 2013 at the Kongresshaus Zürich, starting at 10 am.
Entry is free.

{ 1 comment }