THREE budding female entrepreneurs, Sania Nembhard, Michelle Shadeed, and Nicola Romator, have emerged winners of the Dolla Financial Services ‘Million Dolla Woman Campaign’.

The campaign, which was initiated on March 8 in honour of International Women’s Day, was dedicated to uplifting and empowering women entrepreneurs in Jamaica.

It was conceived to equip women with essential tools, resources, and support to launch or expand their businesses.

Through a series of workshops, participants were given invaluable insights into business growth and efficiency.

A standout feature of the campaign was the opportunity for women entrepreneurs to secure loans of up to $500,000, with the challenge of transforming this investment into revenue of $1 million within a six- to nine-month period.

Out of the 20 women who participated, Nembhard, Shadeed, and Romator emerged victorious after their pitches were considered.

Romator expressed gratitude, saying: “I am truly grateful to Dollar Financial Services and all the incredible individuals who have supported me on this journey. Starting with just $50,000 and taking 16 loans from Dolla Financial, I’ve been able to build a successful restaurant and grocery store.

“Thanks to this opportunity, I’ve been able to send both of my children to college. This journey wouldn’t have been possible without the support and assistance I’ve received along the way.”

It was a similar response from Shadeed who said she was humbled and grateful to be chosen as a millionaire through this opportunity.

“The support and recognition mean the world to me, and I am overwhelmed with gratitude. Thank you all so much for believing in me and for this life-changing opportunity. I am eternally thankful,” said Shadeed.

For her part, Nembhard acknowledged the instrumental role of the former CEO of Dolla Financial.

“I am deeply grateful to the Dolla Team for this incredible opportunity. I want to extend a special thank you to Mr Kadeen Mairs, the visionary behind it all. Though he may not be here today, his dedication and support have been invaluable,” said Nemhard. The Million Dolla Woman Handover ceremony, held in partnership with the Jamaica Stock Exchange’s (JSE) Potential Junior Market Luncheon on Tuesday.

As a testament to the significance of the campaign, the JSE gave $100,000 to each of the three winners, serving as a tangible symbol of its support and commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and prosperity

Nevile Ellis, marketing and communications manager of the JSE, emphasised the importance of this movement, stating that it is always seeking to partner with companies, as the growth of a company directly benefits the country.

In the meantime, Kenroy Kerr, CEO of Dolla Financial, said he was immensely proud of the impact the campaign has had on empowering female entrepreneurs in Jamaica.

“Through this initiative, we’ve provided crucial resources, like capital and mentorship, enabling women to elevate their businesses. The success stories, like our first loan recipient who transformed her home bar into a thriving sports bar and minimart, highlight our dedication to empowering our customers and driving economic growth.

“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all participants and our partners who supported us in this endeavour,” said Kerr.