The Association for African-owned Enterprises (AAOE) has invited The Point newspaper to attend one of its most important events in London, where the Chief Executive of the London Business Network, Brett Taylor, and also Rebekah Gomez, as well as other leading tender specialists are expect to speak to the group.
The AAOE is a non-profit organization that was formed to serve as a 'representative for businesses owned, directed or serving the African corporate community and individual professionals'.
The AAOE also indicated that it aims to expand the influence of its members 'through lobbying for change, grooming individual members for leadership through training and cultivating members for senior management'.
A few years ago, the association's chairman, Washington Kapapiro, personally contacted this correspondent and gave information about its activities. Some of its role includes that it 'can help provide effective immigration advice' and also further explain 'what to consider when choosing an immigration adviser'.
The AAOE also provides a comprehensive range of business services, products and expert training to help members realize their potential. They can also negotiate with 'third party suppliers to offer our members huge savings and increased profitability'.
There are also networking events such as advertising and PR opportunities; Member to Member Trading; Tender Publication Service; International Trade and Seal of Approval where the Association can use its logos on stationery to bestow confidence in customers and clients.
The Association can also reduce costs and expenses through its 'Supplier Advisory Service Affinity Group Discounts'. There is also the availability to negotiate with several strategic suppliers as an Affinity Group to offer 'great savings'.
These currently include: 24 hours free legal advice; free legal expenses insurance; discounted travel services and discounted accounting services. There are various courses such as those meant for the Self Employed or those Starting a Business; Raising Finance for your Business; Writing a Business Plan and Writing a Winning Proposal. Interested people are advice to contact the association in order to enrol.
In terms of Training and Development, the association also offers full professional training and professional development products and services designed by experts for professionals, providing the skills needed to achieve business excellence at all levels.
The association also has various fora and committees that hold several conferences to discuss issues that affect African-owned enterprises. It also indicated that it is 'here to effect change' and create 'better the playing field for our members'.
In a communication with this correspondent, chairman Kapapiro explained that African enterprises in the