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YouthNet Women Entrepreneurship Fellowship (YWEF)

The Made In Nagaland Centre initiative was designed with the purpose to serve as a platforms for our local entrepreneurs. The centre has attracted many visitors both local and outsiders, looking to buy and indulge in the products that are crafted by our local entrepreneurs. Through our experience we have had the opportunity to observe, study and learn the potential for growth is immense, however, our entrepreneurs are faced with challenges in their businesses be it external or internal.

Given the privilege to work with Godrej Good & Green (GCPL) for the Beautypreneur project, we have trained more than 800 women & girls in the Beauty and Wellness sector. Equipping them with Life Skills, empowering them and handholding their business since 2016-2020, this project has been a great success as we helped over 30 young women to turn their business models around. With the feather of achievement of the Beautypreneur Project in our cap, we are looking forward to further this project for women entrepreneurs not only in Beauty and Wellness sector but also those engaged in other sectors.

This fellowship program is designed as a means to help our women entrepreneurs with the objectives to change their business dynamics, facilitate change and growth in their businesses while addressing the issues of each entrepreneur individually.

The program is supported by the Department of Industries and Commerce, Government of Nagaland and Startup Nagaland. 

The concept of the fellowship

The fellowship program will choose 20 rising women entrepreneurs while they get monthly lessons with mentors they can relate to. It starts
with a 2-day orientation program and a yearlong one-to-one handholding of each entrepreneur by our experts. At the end of the fellowship, the fellows and mentees wrap up after a day-long session before they go back to focus on their endeavors.

This program is the first step required for any entrepreneur with a startup business. Business acumen skills must be acquired in order to become a progressive business. This program facilitates growth and incites entrepreneurial drive in the entrepreneurs. It will help them assess their business-profitability, make future projections, working capital management, eligibility for applying to schemes and funding opportunities etc.

Meet the first Cohort of YWEF

Ketholeno Kense is the proprietor of Cache Naga by Leno, an emerging entrepreneur who focuses on handcrafted tribal souvenirs. Leno started her business with an initial investment of 2 lakhs. She has been in the business for more than 2 years.
Ketholeno Kense is the proprietor of Cache Naga by Leno, an emerging entrepreneur who focuses on handcrafted tribal souvenirs. Leno started her business with an initial investment of 2 lakhs. She has been in the business for more than 2 years.
Limala from Dimapur is the proprietor of Lishi Soap. Her keen passion for making natural handmade soap turned into a business venture. Lishi started with Rs.50000/- capital investment and is currently a growing business. With her affordable products she plans to distribute her products across all districts of Nagaland.
Limala from Dimapur is the proprietor of Lishi Soap. Her keen passion for making natural handmade soap turned into a business venture. Lishi started with Rs.50000/- capital investment and is currently a growing business. With her affordable products she plans to distribute her products across all districts of Nagaland.
Tasangkala Imchen is the proprietor of Expression Life, Dimapur. She has an experience of more than 4 years in the decoupage art business. Tasang is planning to set up a training centre in the near future to impart her knowledge and experience of decoupage art to the younger generations.
Tasangkala Imchen is the proprietor of Expression Life, Dimapur. She has an experience of more than 4 years in the decoupage art business. Tasang is planning to set up a training centre in the near future to impart her knowledge and experience of decoupage art to the younger generations.
Imtisenla is the proprietor of “She is you”. Asen has an experience in the business for more than 2 years and also has a plan to venture & invest more.
Imtisenla is the proprietor of “She is you”. Asen has an experience in the business for more than 2 years and also has a plan to venture & invest more.
Vizosenuo Sekhose is the proprietor of The Pure Petals products. She has been in the business for more the 2 years.
Vizosenuo Sekhose is the proprietor of The Pure Petals products. She has been in the business for more the 2 years.
Alemjungla Jamir is a chef & Restaurateur. She has more than 2 years of experience in the food business.
Alemjungla Jamir is a chef & Restaurateur. She has more than 2 years of experience in the food business.
Supongtula the proprietor of Zonee Food Products is based in Dimapur. She has an experience in the food processing business for over 5 years.
Supongtula the proprietor of Zonee Food Products is based in Dimapur. She has an experience in the food processing business for over 5 years.
Ruopfuzhano Whiso is the young emerging entrepreneur and proprietor of the Lady Ruo Kohima. Ruopfu has been in business for more than a year.
Ruopfuzhano Whiso is the young emerging entrepreneur and proprietor of the Lady Ruo Kohima. Ruopfu has been in business for more than a year.
Amenla Aier is an MBA graduate and has been working as the Manager of the Made in Nagaland, an initiative of YouthNet. She has an experience of 3 years in business.
Amenla Aier is an MBA graduate and has been working as the Manager of the Made in Nagaland, an initiative of YouthNet. She has an experience of 3 years in business.
Sungjemienla (Aien) is the proprietor of “The Sweetest Thing” based in Kohima. Aien has an experience for more than 10 years in the bakery business.
Sungjemienla (Aien) is the proprietor of “The Sweetest Thing” based in Kohima. Aien has an experience for more than 10 years in the bakery business.
Lipok Esther the proprietor of “Fire & Earth Ceramic”. Lipok has an experience in the business for more than 3 years. She has a plan to set up pottery school in the future.
Lipok Esther the proprietor of “Fire & Earth Ceramic”. Lipok has an experience in the business for more than 3 years. She has a plan to set up pottery school in the future.
Benny & Janet are co-proprietors of “Knack & Wrap” based in Kohima and has been in the customized gifting service business for over a year.
Benny & Janet are co-proprietors of “Knack & Wrap” based in Kohima and has been in the customized gifting service business for over a year.
Neivino who dreamed of having her own products converted her dreams into reality with the little money she had saved after the intervention of the YWEF program. Her passion for knitting & weaving has now turned into a business model generating more income to plan and save to do business. Neivi has an experience in business for more than 10 years.
Neivino who dreamed of having her own products converted her dreams into reality with the little money she had saved after the intervention of the YWEF program. Her passion for knitting & weaving has now turned into a business model generating more income to plan and save to do business. Neivi has an experience in business for more than 10 years.
Asano Peseyie proprietor of Digital 112 based in Dimapur. Asano has an experience of more than 5 years in the business & IT sector.
Asano Peseyie proprietor of Digital 112 based in Dimapur. Asano has an experience of more than 5 years in the business & IT sector.

Meet the Second Cohort of YWEF

Abigail Sitlhou is the proprietor of “Bake for you” which is a home-based bakery in Kohima, Nagaland. She dreams of training and empowering more unemployed women so that they can use baking as a means to generate little income to be self-reliant & independent.
Abigail Sitlhou is the proprietor of “Bake for you” which is a home-based bakery in Kohima, Nagaland. She dreams of training and empowering more unemployed women so that they can use baking as a means to generate little income to be self-reliant & independent.
Bangdwa is the proprietor of “Bstudio” boutique. Bangdwa did her Fashion design technology (FCT) from NIFT. Under the umbrella of Bstudio , they have Bstudiobespoke, Bstudio and Bstudio. They have recently started a section on wax fragrances and scented candles.
Bangdwa is the proprietor of “Bstudio” boutique. Bangdwa did her Fashion design technology (FCT) from NIFT. Under the umbrella of Bstudio , they have Bstudiobespoke, Bstudio and Bstudio. They have recently started a section on wax fragrances and scented candles.
Danyele Thong Zhimomi is the proprietor of “Da.nye.ka” which is a florist and cottage core home goods business based in Dimapur. She has now expanded to products ranging from cotton bed linens to galvanized metal plates.
Danyele Thong Zhimomi is the proprietor of “Da.nye.ka” which is a florist and cottage core home goods business based in Dimapur. She has now expanded to products ranging from cotton bed linens to galvanized metal plates.
Gugu Koutsu is the proprietor of “GUTOUCH”. Gugu started her journey making jewelry presenting both traditional and modern in her work to reflect her Naga roots. As her passion grew as an artisan, she also identified her skill in decorating. In 2013 she kick-started her business as a wedding planner and now catered to all kinds of events.
Gugu Koutsu is the proprietor of “GUTOUCH”. Gugu started her journey making jewelry presenting both traditional and modern in her work to reflect her Naga roots. As her passion grew as an artisan, she also identified her skill in decorating. In 2013 she kick-started her business as a wedding planner and now catered to all kinds of events.
Imlirenla Jamir is the proprietor of “Craate”. With experiences in running her own online blog, online fashion store, and co-founding a fashion startup, she started making personalized gifts with locally sourced materials during the lockdown as a side hustle and has now turned it into a full-time business.
Imlirenla Jamir is the proprietor of “Craate”. With experiences in running her own online blog, online fashion store, and co-founding a fashion startup, she started making personalized gifts with locally sourced materials during the lockdown as a side hustle and has now turned it into a full-time business.
Kuduvelu Veswuh is the Designer behind “Munye Handmade Nagaland”, she draws ideas and inspiration from the nature around her for the jewelry design. She has also now launched “Rhozii Collections” in Kohima, a curation of Naga local products made in Nagaland.
Kuduvelu Veswuh is the Designer behind “Munye Handmade Nagaland”, she draws ideas and inspiration from the nature around her for the jewelry design. She has also now launched “Rhozii Collections” in Kohima, a curation of Naga local products made in Nagaland.
Three sisters, Shivi, Lituna & Kakali are the co-proprietor of “The Bakesmith” initiated by the eldest sibling Shivi in 2013. The Bakesmith is a Baking business venture based in Dimapur, where they not only cater to all kinds of occasions but also train youths in baking.
Three sisters, Shivi, Lituna & Kakali are the co-proprietor of “The Bakesmith” initiated by the eldest sibling Shivi in 2013. The Bakesmith is a Baking business venture based in Dimapur, where they not only cater to all kinds of occasions but also train youths in baking.
Lovely Khenka Yepthomi is the proprietor of “Mental Sprout Educational Institution” (Montessori cum Nursery Teachers Training and Abacus Institute). She has been in the business since 2016.
Lovely Khenka Yepthomi is the proprietor of “Mental Sprout Educational Institution” (Montessori cum Nursery Teachers Training and Abacus Institute). She has been in the business since 2016.
Mhaleno Visa is an entrepreneur who completed her master’s in Nutrition & Diabetics and started baking after her completion in her studies and is now a full-time baker by profession.
Mhaleno Visa is an entrepreneur who completed her master’s in Nutrition & Diabetics and started baking after her completion in her studies and is now a full-time baker by profession.
Nevetalu Swuro is the proprietor of “Happy Piggies”. Her business is based in Dimapur and is focused on breeding and meat production.
Nevetalu Swuro is the proprietor of “Happy Piggies”. Her business is based in Dimapur and is focused on breeding and meat production.
Regina Chakruno is the proprietor of “Regina”. She is a fashion entrepreneur from Medziphema, Nagaland. Soon after completion of her studies, she worked as a faculty in the Fashion Technology Dept. at the Global Open University, Nagaland for more than 8 years. She is now a full-time entrepreneur who is exploring sustainable fashion.
Regina Chakruno is the proprietor of “Regina”. She is a fashion entrepreneur from Medziphema, Nagaland. Soon after completion of her studies, she worked as a faculty in the Fashion Technology Dept. at the Global Open University, Nagaland for more than 8 years. She is now a full-time entrepreneur who is exploring sustainable fashion.
Rhonbeni Murry is the proprietor of “Hantsen” which is a food processing business in pickle making started in 2019. She is based in Kohima and recently launched her physical store in collaboration with Cubby Basket.
Rhonbeni Murry is the proprietor of “Hantsen” which is a food processing business in pickle making started in 2019. She is based in Kohima and recently launched her physical store in collaboration with Cubby Basket.
Shoes”. Sangla started her business venture in 2019. The products of “Crochet Shoes” are made affordable and budget friendly.
Shoes”. Sangla started her business venture in 2019. The products of “Crochet Shoes” are made affordable and budget friendly.
Temsusenla Kichu is the proprietor of “Fusion Store” based in Dimapur. She has 12 years of working experience in sales.
Temsusenla Kichu is the proprietor of “Fusion Store” based in Dimapur. She has 12 years of working experience in sales.
Vepotolu Dozo is the proprietor of “VD homemade” which is a pickle making business. She began her journey in high school watching her aunt and finally launched VD homemade in 2021.
Vepotolu Dozo is the proprietor of “VD homemade” which is a pickle making business. She began her journey in high school watching her aunt and finally launched VD homemade in 2021.
Vikhuli Zhimo is the winner of Naga Chef 2018. She runs her own restaurant NiChuka at Chumoukedima offering authentic Naga cuisines. Chumo
Vikhuli Zhimo is the winner of Naga Chef 2018. She runs her own restaurant NiChuka at Chumoukedima offering authentic Naga cuisines. Chumo
Yimchak Medeo is the proprietor of “Inara Unisex Kohima”. She is a hairstylist and make-up artist from Kohima. She has a dream of setting up a training institute someday.
Yimchak Medeo is the proprietor of “Inara Unisex Kohima”. She is a hairstylist and make-up artist from Kohima. She has a dream of setting up a training institute someday.

Meet the Third Cohort of YWEF

Deshen Foods, a division of Putoyim Agro Private Limited,founded by Asenla LKR and Tsukti Asenla Jamir is a burgeoning entity in the food processing sector, based in Nagaland, India.
Deshen Foods, a division of Putoyim Agro Private Limited,founded by Asenla LKR and Tsukti Asenla Jamir is a burgeoning entity in the food processing sector, based in Nagaland, India.
Qhevili Sekhose is the proprietor of TGS Events, an event management enterprise specializing in wedding planning services. She believes in environmentally friendly products and designs that are truly aesthetic.
Qhevili Sekhose is the proprietor of TGS Events, an event management enterprise specializing in wedding planning services. She believes in environmentally friendly products and designs that are truly aesthetic.
Chonbeni is part of Manna Oven, a manufacturer, wholesaler, and trader of sugar-free cookies, bakery biscuits, salted pista cookies, and jam cookies. The business has been operating since 2023 in Chumukedima, Nagaland.
Chonbeni is part of Manna Oven, a manufacturer, wholesaler, and trader of sugar-free cookies, bakery biscuits, salted pista cookies, and jam cookies. The business has been operating since 2023 in Chumukedima, Nagaland.
Vaivee Enterprise/Food Barn Nagaland is a joint venture founded by two sisters, Abeino Zashu and Asano Zashu. Their venture comprises two labels: Vaivee Enterprise focusing on Naga weaves & beads established in 2018, Later, in 2021, they expanded their business to include 'Food Barn Nagaland', specializing in brewing and pickling natural, organic product.
Vaivee Enterprise/Food Barn Nagaland is a joint venture founded by two sisters, Abeino Zashu and Asano Zashu. Their venture comprises two labels: Vaivee Enterprise focusing on Naga weaves & beads established in 2018, Later, in 2021, they expanded their business to include 'Food Barn Nagaland', specializing in brewing and pickling natural, organic product.
Highland Pottery Studio, founded by Vizonuo Soliezuo in 2016, is a renowned pottery studio located in Kohima, Nagaland. Known for its distinctive handcrafted pottery, the studio has garnered attention for its unique blend of traditional techniques and contemporary designs
Highland Pottery Studio, founded by Vizonuo Soliezuo in 2016, is a renowned pottery studio located in Kohima, Nagaland. Known for its distinctive handcrafted pottery, the studio has garnered attention for its unique blend of traditional techniques and contemporary designs
LifeConnect Nagaland is a Christian organization dedicated to empowering marginalized and vulnerable women. Under the visionary leadership of Sali Ngully, LifeConnect Nagaland has grown to employ close to 20 employees with initiatives various like Home Work Help Centre, Happy Flow, Threads of Tapestry, Giving Pantry, Folding Lives and Happy Kitchen.
LifeConnect Nagaland is a Christian organization dedicated to empowering marginalized and vulnerable women. Under the visionary leadership of Sali Ngully, LifeConnect Nagaland has grown to employ close to 20 employees with initiatives various like Home Work Help Centre, Happy Flow, Threads of Tapestry, Giving Pantry, Folding Lives and Happy Kitchen.
Jiniya Kez a teacher by profession who is also the founder of Ji-Nen Homemade Products, known for its homemade pickles using local ingredients, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian. Her passion for creating delicious products shines through in every item.
Jiniya Kez a teacher by profession who is also the founder of Ji-Nen Homemade Products, known for its homemade pickles using local ingredients, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian. Her passion for creating delicious products shines through in every item.
Nonzing Wangsu, originally from Tizit village in the Mon district, is a self-taught pastry chef and an experienced cook with 15 years in the culinary industry. She currently owns and operates "Your Food," located at the Made in Nagaland Centre in Kohima.
Nonzing Wangsu, originally from Tizit village in the Mon district, is a self-taught pastry chef and an experienced cook with 15 years in the culinary industry. She currently owns and operates "Your Food," located at the Made in Nagaland Centre in Kohima.
Ben Pamei, a 26-year-old Zoology Master's student and founder of the clothing brand P7 , represents a remarkable transformation from an aspiring doctor to a successful fashion entrepreneur. P7 is a trusted Indian custom fashion brand
Ben Pamei, a 26-year-old Zoology Master's student and founder of the clothing brand P7 , represents a remarkable transformation from an aspiring doctor to a successful fashion entrepreneur. P7 is a trusted Indian custom fashion brand
Dainty by AH Gift Shop, specializing in premium bouquets, flower boxes, and customized gift hampers, is co-owned by Atenjenla Sangtam and Huthukali
Dainty by AH Gift Shop, specializing in premium bouquets, flower boxes, and customized gift hampers, is co-owned by Atenjenla Sangtam and Huthukali
Mutsevelü Phesao is a distinguished chemistry teacher with a robust educational foundation. She holds a Master’s degree in Biochemistry and completed a two-year education course at Rayalaseema University. Further enhancing her expertise, she trained in Advanced Cosmetic Science at the Institute of Personal Care Science in Coolum Beach, Australia. She is the founder and the director of Tsivi SelfCare Pvt Ltd
Mutsevelü Phesao is a distinguished chemistry teacher with a robust educational foundation. She holds a Master’s degree in Biochemistry and completed a two-year education course at Rayalaseema University. Further enhancing her expertise, she trained in Advanced Cosmetic Science at the Institute of Personal Care Science in Coolum Beach, Australia. She is the founder and the director of Tsivi SelfCare Pvt Ltd
Kesangunuo Kiewhuo, who holds a master’s degree in Psychology, currently works as an ANTARANG facilitator. In addition to her professional career, she has embraced her family business as the third generation to lead Guo's Organic Tea. This cherished family endeavour, initiated by her grandparents Guovilie and Mesechü-ü Kiewhuo in 2003, is located in the serene locale of Nerhe Phezha under Nerhema village.
Kesangunuo Kiewhuo, who holds a master’s degree in Psychology, currently works as an ANTARANG facilitator. In addition to her professional career, she has embraced her family business as the third generation to lead Guo's Organic Tea. This cherished family endeavour, initiated by her grandparents Guovilie and Mesechü-ü Kiewhuo in 2003, is located in the serene locale of Nerhe Phezha under Nerhema village.
Boditive Sanitary Pads is the first sanitary pad brand from the state of Nagaland, launched on January 27, 2023, by Avitoli Yeptho. The brand was founded with a mission to revolutionize the sanitary pad industry by providing high-quality, health-conscious products for women.
Boditive Sanitary Pads is the first sanitary pad brand from the state of Nagaland, launched on January 27, 2023, by Avitoli Yeptho. The brand was founded with a mission to revolutionize the sanitary pad industry by providing high-quality, health-conscious products for women.
Cenam Wangcha, a 47-year-old woman from the royal family of the Konyak Tribe in Mon District, is the driving force behind Wangcha Jewellery. Wangcha Jewellery is not just a business venture for her; it's a means of imparting knowledge, preserving tradition, and empowering her community.
Cenam Wangcha, a 47-year-old woman from the royal family of the Konyak Tribe in Mon District, is the driving force behind Wangcha Jewellery. Wangcha Jewellery is not just a business venture for her; it's a means of imparting knowledge, preserving tradition, and empowering her community.
Imliben Lemtur founded and owns Monalisa Business Solutions, launched in June 2019 in Dimapur. The primary aim of starting the paper bag manufacturing unit was to discourage the use of polythene bags and to provide employment opportunities for women and young people.
Imliben Lemtur founded and owns Monalisa Business Solutions, launched in June 2019 in Dimapur. The primary aim of starting the paper bag manufacturing unit was to discourage the use of polythene bags and to provide employment opportunities for women and young people.
Seyiesinuo Kera, along with her mother, operates Zhovi's Store in the heart of Dimapur, specializing in handloom and handicraft items sourced from various artisans. Their dedication to promoting handloom and handicrafts reflects their deep passion for these traditional arts.
Seyiesinuo Kera, along with her mother, operates Zhovi's Store in the heart of Dimapur, specializing in handloom and handicraft items sourced from various artisans. Their dedication to promoting handloom and handicrafts reflects their deep passion for these traditional arts.
Selavolu This is the owner of Sela Design, a talented tailor with around 10 years of experience in creating custom garments. She intends to launch a fashion training studio alongside her bespoke clothing services.
Selavolu This is the owner of Sela Design, a talented tailor with around 10 years of experience in creating custom garments. She intends to launch a fashion training studio alongside her bespoke clothing services.
Imnakumla, proprietor of Serendipity (Florist), ensures your floral needs are met for any occasion with delivery services available across India. Based in Chumukedima , home delivery is also offered. Her passion for her work extends to supporting those in need, with a portion of her revenue dedicated to charitable causes.
Imnakumla, proprietor of Serendipity (Florist), ensures your floral needs are met for any occasion with delivery services available across India. Based in Chumukedima , home delivery is also offered. Her passion for her work extends to supporting those in need, with a portion of her revenue dedicated to charitable causes.
Moaienla is the proprietor of Momade, based in Kohima. She operates from home, specializing in baking, cooking, and pickling. She started her venture in 2023
Moaienla is the proprietor of Momade, based in Kohima. She operates from home, specializing in baking, cooking, and pickling. She started her venture in 2023
Noune Sale, a young entrepreneur balancing her studies with her growing passion for business, has established service apartments in the heart of Kohima. These family-friendly apartments cater to both short-term and long-term stays.
Noune Sale, a young entrepreneur balancing her studies with her growing passion for business, has established service apartments in the heart of Kohima. These family-friendly apartments cater to both short-term and long-term stays.

Watch out for this space to join the next cohort of YouthNet Women Entrepreneurship Fellowship - YWEF 2024

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