A first of its kind international Women tech entrepreneurship conference was held in Israel last week, as a group of female tech bloggers and entrepreneurs from around the world were invited for a one-week trip to explore the 'Startup Nation'.
The conference, titled WIT (Women Innovation, Technology,) included lectures by Keynote speakers from Israel’s booming high-tech industry, workshops led by Israeli high tech professionals such as Wendy Singer, Executive Director of Start-up Nation Central, meetings with well-known figures from the Israeli start-up community, visits to Israeli high-tech hubs in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Haifa, and get-togethers with accelerators, potential investors and Israeli entrepreneurship centers. The Closing event of the conference took place at the Tel Aviv stock exchange new conference hall, and included a pitch competition for startups founded by women entrepreneurs, in collaboration with WMN and GKH law.
The Women entrepreneurs and bloggers who participated in the conference arrived in Israel from around the world, including from India, USA, Germany, Russia, Poland and China. During the 3-day conference, they joined their Israeli counterparts for a unique journey, in which they got to see Israel as a ‘Startup Nation’. In addition, the participants had a chance to create professional connections, develop business opportunities with Israeli companies.
The conference was organized by a group of 25 students from Tel Aviv University, all volunteering in the StandWithUs Fellowship, a public diplomacy program that trains Israel's future leaders. StandWithUs is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to educate about Israel and improve the way it's viewed worldwide.
Rajeshree Naik, an Indian entrepreneur who stands behind PING- one of India's biggest multi-cable network, and Jennifer Bligh, a German blogger and reporter, shared with me their experiences and insights from their first visit to Israel:
What made you decide to come to Israel for the conference?
Rajeshree: About two months ago, we at PING were delighted to host the Israeli Ambassador and Counsel General in our office in Mumbai. This visit was truly special for us as a startup, and started a fruitful relationship. It was through the Consulate that I heard about this conference, and, as entrepreneurs and people familiar with the amazing innovation in Israel, an opportunity like this was something we would not want to miss. Once we got the invite, there was no doubt that we could certainly take this opportunity.
Jennifer: I came across WIT Israel via Merav Oren, who I met and interviewed before. I clicked on the WIT link she shared – and was immediately intrigued – it is exactly what I was looking for in terms of new stories and new sources for future stories about Israel.
What was the best part in your one week visit to Israel?
Jennifer: I liked the fact that the group of women who participated was very homogeneous and heterogeneous at the same time – homogeneous due to age/professional backgrounds and visions and heterogeneous due to our origin/industries and stages of entrepreneurship. The program that was organized was perfectly balanced between input through lectures and presentations, visits and networking opportunities.
Rajeshree: Many things, but let me try and highlight some. First, there's the professional angle: as an entrepreneur, there's an infectious energy when you visit these various startups. It was very inspirational to hear the stories behind those blooming businesses. Moreover, the sheer volume of innovations, focus and passion is truly remarkable.
What I liked most of the past week is to witness the possibilities that exist for people like us, to look for potential partners — we in India are probably one of the largest markets and here you have amazing products that can address that market.
Personally, it was one of the most memorable trips of my lifetime, and I have travelled quite a bit. From the easy-going vibe of Tel- Aviv, to the overwhelming sense of history that Jerusalem represents, or the picture perfect Haifa. Seeing the various sceneries of Israel was a hugely memorable experience. It's one of those places you know you want to stay connected to. I, for one, intend to come back and spend a lot more time, and, if possible, find a reason to stay connected to this place.
The other thing I absolutely loved was the warmth of the people we met and interacted with — so welcoming and so affectionate. I have visited many global cities that were truly stunning but they all lacked “soul.” Here there is soul and that's what makes Israel even more special.
What surprised you the most about Israel?
Rajeshree: Like I mentioned, it's a country with soul and a lot of warmth – that's what makes it special and at the same time, it was the surprising part. Global media tend to give so much attention to the Israeli-Arab conflict that and neglect the beauty of this place.
From the moment I stepped out of the aircraft to the time I left, nothing about my week in Israel was a reminder of the conflict we often hear about. Whether you walk along the gorgeous beach of Tel Aviv at 2am, or take-in the sense of spiritual energy in Jerusalem – you hardly ever think of the conflict or the tension surrounding it.
I would easily vote Israel as one of the top 5 tourist destinations. It is perfect for families, kids, young folks…It got everything you need in a holiday – amazing food, great shopping, lots of history, art, beaches, activities and so much more. Given it was such a hectic week week, I did not get to do much outside of the conference, but I certainly intend to come back for that perfect holiday.
Jennifer: What surprised me? Honestly – the advanced level of female entrepreneurship in Israel.
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