The Soy Emprendedora Network (“I am an Entrepreneur” Network) was created as part of the implementation of the Soy Emprendedora Program, with the purpose of fostering a space for professional and personal growth among women entrepreneurs in Zamora Chinchipe. The Network brings together local entrepreneurs to exchange experiences, strengthen their businesses, and access new commercial opportunities.
With the support of Lundin Gold and the Lundin Foundation, it also serves as a support system, empowering women to build resilience and collaborate for shared success. The Network is guided by a democratically elected leadership team and structured through five working committees focused on organizational strengthening, economic sustainability, quality processes, communication, and capacity building.
Today, it operates with a clear strategic plan and internal regulations, ensuring its functionality and long-term vision. Through this initiative, 40 women representing 38 businesses have come together to shape a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem for the region.
The Network’s leadership team—Cristina Paucar (President), Sonia Sarango (Vice President), Gladys Quishpe (Secretary), and Jessica Romero (Treasurer)—agreed that the support received through the program was essential in allowing them to continue shaping a shared vision for the Network’s future. They highlighted the importance of the working committees in driving strategic progress and deepening engagement among members.
While they are still in the process of formalizing their legal status, they are optimistic this will enable them to access international funding opportunities. For the team, working collaboratively has been invaluable—they lean on one another, face challenges together, and embrace shared opportunities to build a stronger, more resilient network focused on advancing the work of women entrepreneurs.
“Through this initiative, 40 women representing 38 businesses have come together to shape a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem for the region.”
