CELEBRATING WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH: MINE DEDEKOCA AND WIN LAE MYA YEE SAN
#GSAHerstory: Honoring stories of Women’s strenght, legacy and Inspiration
March is Women’s History Month – a time to celebrate the achievements and lasting impact of the incredible women who shape our lives. At GSA, we embrace that behind every innovator, leader, and changemaker, there’s a remarkable woman whose wisdom and strength helped pave the way.
This month, we’re proud to highlight some powerful women in the GSA network. Their stories of strength, resilience and determination have shaped them into the personas that they are today, and we’re eager to learn more about the women that have influenced their journeys.
THE WOMAN WHO MADE Me: A Mother’s stregth and unwavering support
‘‘My mother has always been my guiding light, fueling my ambition and driving me forward on my entrepreneurial journey. Since my childhood, she showed me the value of determination and sticking to my passion. She never allowed me to doubt my abilities, and her endless support helped me find the courage to pursue my biggest dreams. Whether it was cheering me on from the sidelines or offering a comforting word when the road got tough. She also went after her dream and started a food shop after age 65. My mother was always there – showing me, through her own example, that women can be both compassionate and powerful. Her strength and belief in me have shaped the person I am today, and for that, I will forever be grateful.”
— MINE DEDEKOCA, global alumni leand and business associate, Global startup awards
EMPOWERED AND UNSTOPPABLE: WOMEN elevating WOMEN
‘‘Throughout my journey, I have been blessed with incredible women who have shaped and inspired me – starting with my mother, my high school teachers and my sisters. But recently, two extraordinary women have profoundly impacted my life.
Jana Kadian came into my life as a mentor through my former boss, and though we have never met in person, her influence has been life-changing. She helped me see myself more clearly, guiding me toward my true purpose. Her wisdom and encouragement gave me the courage to step into the world of women’s empowerment and extend my support beyond women to the local SME community.
Then there is Dr. Su Hla Han, the inspiring President of the Myanmar Women Entrepreneurs Network, an organization I work closely with. She is a force of nature – driven, hardworking, yet incredibly humble. Her unwavering belief in herself and her mission is something I deeply admire.
These women are more than mentors they are beacons of strength and inspiration. I am truly grateful to have them in my life, lighting the way for me and so many others.”
— WIN LAE MYA YEE SAn, FOUNDER AND CEO, THE INSPIRATION
“Every woman's success should be an inspiration to another. We're strongest when we cheer each other on” - SERENA WILLIAMS
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we encourage you to reflect on the remarkable women who’ve inspired you – whether in your personal life, career, or beyond. Who are the women whose strength and wisdom have left a lasting impact on your journey?
Share your stories with us by using the hashtag #GSAHerStory and let’s celebrate the women who’ve empowered and encouraged us to become who we are today.
If you know an inspiring female entrepreneur in the startup ecosystem, don’t forget to nominate them for the Regional Competition of the Global Startup Awards – public nominations are still open! 🚀