Int'l Women’s Day: Female entrepreneur, Christelle Epo, says time to celebrate women's resilience, achievements.

The entrepreneur, dealing in the wine industry in Cameroon, shared her perspectives of the international day commemorated this year under the theme: “For all women and girls: Rights, equality and empowerment”.

In her message, the Chief Executive Officer, CEO of CEG Import-Export Sarl, said March 8 is not just a date on the calendar but a powerful moment and an invitation to celebrate achievements and reflect on the ongoing challenges faced by women in all sectors. 

She said as a woman, mother, and entrepreneur in the wine industry, the day holds special significance for her.
“It embodies the celebration of strength, female resilience, and, above all, the opportunity to promote diversity and inclusion in a still predominantly male industry,” she stated.

Using her story to inspire other Cameroonian women and girls, she said her adventure in the wine world began with an unwavering passion for French terroir and its exceptional wines. 

Following her ambition of introducing the richness of French vineyards to Cameroonian wine enthusiasts, she founded her company, CEG Import-Export, in January 2020. 

However, the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic quickly disrupted her plans and required from her an exceptional adaptability to balance professional life and family responsibilities.
“Despite the challenges, my team and I persevered with determination. Today, seeing our products on supermarket shelves across Cameroon is more than just a commercial success; it is a true human victory,” she said, adding that “every bottle on the shelves is a testament to the hard work of every team member”.

While thanking members of her staff whose dedication makes their daily work much smoother and enjoyable, she gave credit to her winemaker partners, whose expertise, passion, and commitment allow her team to offer exceptional wines to Cameroonian consumers. 

“Their trust is a critical driver of our project’s success. A big thank you as well to our loyal consumers who trust us for the quality of the products we bring to market. Their continued support is a valuable source of motivation for our entire team,” she added.

Supporting, inspiring other women
She then stressed that the International Women’s Day is a call to action for all, especially women, to strive to foster collaboration across various fields of activities be it in transportation, logistics, or communication. 

She also expressed determination to continue mentoring and supporting young Cameroonian women and girls who aspire to become entrepreneurs. 

“Sharing my experience, advising them on the specific challenges of our economic environment, and encouraging them to persevere are integral parts of my mission,” she admitted.
Aware of the challenges of an ever-evolving economic environment, she highlighted the need for women to deepening their knowledge especially in international trade and economic diplomacy for those in business spheres.
“This approach allows me to adopt an increasingly strategic and informed approach to my professional activities,” she noted.

Dreams of a more inclusive future
The businesswoman also declared her dream of a future where women will have their rightful place in all economic sectors, including wine. 

“A future where their voices will be heard, their ideas respected, and their talents recognised,” Epo pointed. 

While indicating that a recent study revealed that less than 10% of leadership positions in the global wine industry are held by women, the entrepreneur stressed on the need to continue to promote equal opportunities.
“As a woman entrepreneur, mother, and student, I raise my glass to all those who, every day, dare, persevere, and succeed,” she attested. 

She then emphasised that the International Women’s Day is a reminder of the value, impact, and limitless potential of women in Cameroon and beyond who should continue to break glass ceilings, inspire, and pave the way for future generations.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3387 of Sunday March 09, 2025