By- Semaria Kebede
The Rise of Equity and Leadership in Ethiopia
Ethiopia is a country that has seen significant growth in the technology sector in recent years. Startups are a unique kind of business, known for being innovative, agile, and disruptive in their respective industries. However, what sets them apart is their leadership and equity structures.
In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on equity and leadership in startups, as founders recognize the importance of creating a fair and inclusive workplace. This essay will discuss the significance of ownership distribution equity, opportunity equity with women, and leadership in startups and their impact on the success of a company.
Equity in Startups
Now equity could mean the distribution of ownership in a company and it can also mean being given the same resources or opportunities when it comes to factors that would otherwise be given to a more privileged sex or group.
Let’s talk about the former. Startups that prioritize equity are more likely to attract and retain top talent, as well as create a sense of ownership and commitment among employees.
Equity in startups is only sometimes distributed fairly. Especially in a developing country like Ethiopia, it’s hard to establish equity as important in workplaces. Tech-based environments are even more challenging when it comes to this topic. Equity can serve as a tool for startups to raise capital, as investors are more likely to invest in companies that offer equity to their employees.
One of the benefits of a fair and transparent equity structure is that it can help startups attract and retain top talent. When employees feel that they have a stake in the company’s success, they are more motivated to work hard and contribute to the company’s growth. Additionally, a fair equity structure can help create a sense of community and shared purpose among employees, which can lead to better collaboration and performance.
Another benefit of equity in startups is that it can serve as a tool for raising capital. Investors are more likely to invest in companies that offer equity to their employees, as it demonstrates a commitment to creating a fair and inclusive workplace.
By offering equity to employees, startups can also align the interests of their employees with those of the company, which can lead to better performance and growth.
Opportunity-based equity for women in Ethiopia
Equity recognizes that each person has different circumstances and allocates the exact resources and opportunities needed to reach an equal outcome.
Traditionally, Ethiopian women and girls have suffered economic and sociocultural discrimination.
Now in recent years in the urbanized and populated parts of the country, the rise of women business owners and the rise of educated young women in many different industries and in male-dominated industries have been seen.
This is a positive sign for the country as a whole. Specifically, the number of women in tech has been growing fast. But with the amount of population we have, it could have been way better. What could be the problem?
Do we not have enough female role models to look up to? Does that make it difficult for us to envision ourselves in these careers? Do we lack access to education and training? Do culture and tradition really affect us to this day? The answer to all of these questions could be YES absolutely
When it comes to the equity-based opportunity it’s no surprise that women in Ethiopia, especially in tech, have a harder time breaking into the industry. Sure, it’s usually a more male-dominated industry but women who are in the tech and in the creative field do find it harder to find jobs and opportunities.
Like in many other countries, women here face numerous challenges when it comes to entering and succeeding in the tech industry. But the great thing is: women are now getting opportunities in the workforce and as business owners. This is because nowadays there are many incentives the rest of the world has been adapting and pushing. I have personally learned about how equity-based startups that have female founders get so much more opportunity and core developmental ability which allows them to have a strong root for growth.
Despite these challenges, there has been a rise in the number of women who are breaking into the tech industry in Ethiopia. One of the key drivers of this growth is the government’s focus on promoting and supporting the tech industry, which has created more opportunities for women.
In addition, there are a growing number of organizations and initiatives that are focused on supporting women in the tech industry. For example, the Ethiopia Women in Tech (eWIT) organization is dedicated to empowering and supporting women in the tech industry. The organization provides mentorship, training, and networking opportunities to help women succeed in the industry.
Some other organizations like Tech women Africa (TWA), Renew capital with different and timely gender growth acceleration programs and their recently launched platform for women business owners and executives, BIC Africa with their female entrepreneurs’ acceleration program, the Ethiopian women entrepreneurs association, Africa block chain institute with their African women in blockchain online events that work on embracing Digital equality for women in blockchain, Women tech makers Addis and she leaders Africa: a high growth coaching program and so many more are some incentives that are just for women in Africa that work on building and motivating women entrepreneurs and women leaders to further grow their skills and leadership potentials.
But there has been great progress that has been made in recent years and that’s encouraging. As more women continue to break into different industries esp the tech industry and succeed, they will help to create a more diverse and inclusive tech industry in Ethiopia, which will benefit everyone
Leadership in Startups
Leadership is another essential aspect of startups. Startups are led by founders, who are responsible for setting the vision and direction of the company. Effective leadership is critical to the success of startups, as it determines the culture, values, and strategy of the company.
Leadership in startups should be collaborative and inclusive. Founders should encourage their employees to contribute to the decision-making process and provide them opportunities to take on leadership roles. This not only promotes a sense of ownership and commitment among employees but also helps startups identify and nurture future leaders within the company.
My personal experience working in different teams has allowed me to understand that leadership comes from a sense of responsibility and from having an effective working delivery mindset that many do not possess. But allowing brainstorming activities and creating an environment to always sprint, do a human-centered design, and design thinking by collaboration has been one of the major development I have noticed that motivates leadership within people who don’t possess ” Leadership skills”
Furthermore, effective leadership can help create a positive workplace culture that promotes innovation, creativity, and growth. When employees feel that their ideas and contributions are valued, they are more likely to feel motivated and engaged in their work. Additionally, a positive workplace culture can help attract top talent, as it demonstrates that the company is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for its employees.
In conclusion, By prioritizing equity and leadership, startups can create a fair and inclusive workplace, which ultimately leads to the success of the company. As startups continue to shape the future of business, and especially the private sector in Ethiopia, it will be increasingly important to prioritize equity and leadership in order to thrive in a competitive and rapidly changing market.
