Women entrepreneurs driving Aruba economy was the central message shared by Minister of Economic Affairs Geoffrey Wever in recognition of International Women’s Day on March 8.
The minister highlighted that the occasion is not only a moment to remember the historic struggle for gender equality, but also an opportunity to celebrate the resilience, creativity, and economic strength of women around the world.
According to Minister Wever, women in Aruba are not merely participants in the economy — they are a vital force behind the island’s economic growth and development.
Women in Leadership and Business
Statistics from the 2020 Census show that women hold 45.3% of managerial positions in Aruba, demonstrating the strong presence of female leadership across many sectors.
The contribution of women can be seen in a wide range of industries, from artisanal food production to scientific innovation and agriculture.
Wever noted that when women-led businesses succeed, the entire country benefits through job creation, economic diversification, and stronger communities.
Spotlight on Women-Owned Businesses
The government has also been highlighting female entrepreneurship through initiatives such as the “Cumpra Local” campaign launched by DEZHI in 2025. The campaign showcased several successful women-led businesses that contribute to Aruba’s economic and social development.
Among the highlighted entrepreneurs are:
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Zaida Everon, owner of T2Pan Sourdough Boutique, who has built a successful local brand through craftsmanship and innovation.
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Rachell Peterson, founder of Farma Cure Fungi, a pioneer in sustainable agriculture producing medicinal and culinary mushrooms using laboratory-based methods on the island.
These entrepreneurs represent hundreds of women transforming ideas into successful businesses while supporting the local economy.
Supporting Female Entrepreneurship
The Ministry of Economic Affairs and Finance, through the Department of Economic Affairs, Trade and Industry (DEZHI), continues to provide resources and guidance to help women expand their businesses.
In March 2025, the Exprodesk initiative launched the program “She Means Business: Women Empowerment Month.” The program included a series of workshops designed to help women develop export capabilities, entrepreneurial skills, and business strategies.
Data from IDEA, a division within DEZHI that supports entrepreneurs, shows that nearly 40% of new clients seeking business guidance in 2025 were women interested in starting or expanding their businesses.
IDEA’s social media audience also reflects strong female engagement, with women between 35 and 44 years old forming the largest and most active group among its more than 3,100 followers.
Progress Toward Gender Equality
The Central Bank of Aruba has also reported improvements in the island’s Gender Inequality Index (GII) over the long term, indicating progress toward greater gender equality.
Compared with other Small Island Developing States (SIDS), Aruba ranks among the countries with lower levels of gender inequality.
Minister Wever praised the efforts of organizations such as DEZHI, IDEA, and Exprodesk for their continued work to encourage female entrepreneurship and strengthen women’s participation in the economy.
A Stronger Economy Through Equality
The minister reaffirmed the commitment of the AVP–Futuro government to continue working with the private sector to advance gender equality.
According to Wever, promoting gender equality is not only a social objective but also a pathway to building a stronger, more resilient, and diversified economy.
International Women’s Day therefore serves as a reminder that empowering women benefits not only individuals, but the entire nation.
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