Pioneers of change: Celebrating the women shaping tomorrow

This International Women’s Day, we’re spotlighting the game-changers – the women rewriting the rules of business for good. As past winners of The Bicester Collection’s Unlock Her Future Prize, these social entrepreneurs from the Middle East, North Africa and Latin America are proving that purpose-driven innovation can reshape industries. With grants of up to US$100,000, mentorship and global recognition through the DO GOOD philanthropic programme, they’ve turned bold ideas into world-changing ventures. Now, they’re sharing their journeys – and their advice for the next generation of changemakers.

Thamires Pontes, Phycolabs

Revolutionising fashion with seaweed-based bio-threads, Thamires Pontes, founder of Phycolabs, is on a mission to replace petrochemical materials with sustainable alternatives. Winning the Prize was her ‘Oscar moment’ – validation that responsible fashion has a future. But the fight isn’t over. “Women driving social change need a voice, support and resources to protect life, the environment and future generations.” Her advice? “Stay flexible, build strong partnerships […] and never compromise on your vision.”

Valentina Agudelo, Salva Health

With Julieta, a radiation-free AI-powered breast cancer screening device, Valentina Aguedelo, founder of Salva Health, is redesigning healthcare access. The Prize didn’t just fund her vision – it catapulted it. “It gave us credibility, a support network and the momentum to scale.” For aspiring entrepreneurs, she says: “Seek mentorship, embrace failure as a lesson, build a strong network and stay mission-driven.”

Annie Rosas, BlueKali

Annie Rosas, founder of Bluekali, grew up in coastal Mexico, witnessing firsthand the devastation of pollution. Now, she’s leading a tech-driven solution to clean up aquatic ecosystems and prevent packaging waste. The Prize unlocked new opportunities, fuelling both impact and growth. Her advice? “Trust yourself. Keep learning. Every challenge is a step forward.”

Leydi Cruz, Agrimet

Low-cost tech that protects farmers from climate change? That’s Leydi’s vision with AGRIMET. With real-time IoT sensors, she’s safeguarding food security and livelihoods in Bolivia. Winning the Prize expanded her perspective and proved that, “despite challenges, amazing things are possible”. For future entrepreneurs, she advises: “Build a strong, aligned team, manage finances wisely, adapt and seek help when needed. Challenges will come, but resilience drives success.”

Kristal del Valle, MindVerse

At 17, Kristal is already transforming education with MindVerse, an AI-powered platform that personalises learning based on cognitive preferences. Her entrepreneurial journey began at nine, selling preloved toys to fund her dream, MindVerse’s first prototype. Now, as the 2024 Prize’s Young Game Changer, she sees it as a launchpad: “It empowers women to build and improve, no matter their background.” Her advice to future entrepreneurs? “Fear is a step forward, not a barrier. Take action. Every challenge holds a seed for growth.”

Noor Jaber, NAWAT Health

From Lebanon, Noor Jaber, founder of NAWAT Health, is transforming women’s health in the MENA region. Their mission? To make women’s healthcare simpler and more private. The Prize expanded her network and impact, proving that visibility and resources can amplify women-led change. “Network actively, believe in your vision and seek mentorship,” she says. Adapt to challenges and don’t hesitate to evolve.

Sara Llalla, EcoCentric

Empowering conscious living through plastic-free alternatives and eco-friendly products, Sara Llalla, founder of EcoCentric, is tackling environmental challenges in the UAE and Iraq. Winning the Prize gave her the visibility and credibility to scale impact. “It empowers women with resources, credibility and networks to turn purpose-driven ideas into transformative solutions.” Her biggest lesson? Surround yourself with people who are where you want to be.

Fella Bouti, EcoTashira

Leading Algeria’s sustainability movement, Fella Bouti, founder of EcoTashira – offering green solutions for construction, from vertical gardens to rooftop oases – is proving that eco-conscious businesses can drive real change. The Prize unlocked her potential, fuelling her ambition further. Her message? “Believe in yourself, never give up and surround yourself with like-minded people.”

Nuhayr Zein, Leaukeather

Sustainable fashion meets cutting-edge innovation with Leaukeather, Nuhayr Zein’s answer to a plant-based leather alternative. The Prize provided critical insights into funding, branding and production helping refine and scale the business. Her advice? “Embrace confidence and assertiveness but stay adaptable and flexible. A balanced mindset is key to overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities.”