Since 2022, SINGA has been part of StartIN, a European programme piloted by the Visa Foundation that supports people with lived experience of displacement to start and grow their businesses. Every year, Visa Everywhere Pioneers recognises the most promising women entrepreneurs from this network.
In 2026, nine of the 30 winners across Europe were supported by SINGA.

Nine entrepreneurs, nine different ways to innovate

Nawar Abazid – Lyon

Through Nafas, Nawar Abazid introduces the rich flavours of Syrian cuisine to Lyon. A former physics teacher, she chose entrepreneurship as a way to share her culinary heritage and create a welcoming space where people can connect through food.

Alaa Alchaar – Bordeaux

Content creator and entrepreneur Alaa Alchaar founded Feel Well Mama, a platform that supports new mothers during the postnatal period through practical resources and a supportive community.

Kira Antonova – Bordeaux

A film researcher and audiovisual project coordinator, Kira Antonova created Dark Cinema Prints, an editorial project inspired by horror cinema that brings together artistic creation and academic research.

Jahida Sahar Elham – Nantes

Founder of  Elham, Jahida Sahar Elham works with artisans in Afghanistan and Kashmir to celebrate traditional craftsmanship while building a business based on ethical trade practices.

Mariia Gavel – Suisse

With more than 25 years of experience in fashion, Mariia Gavel founded Gavel Atelier, a bespoke tailoring and premium alterations business. Her work combines exceptional craftsmanship with a sustainable approach to fashion.

Rita Katoola – Lyon

A PhD researcher, Rita Katoola is the co-founder and Executive Director of Réfugiés Enseignement Supérieur (RES). The organisation supports refugees and asylum seekers in accessing higher education and continuing their studies.

Marianna Medynska – Marseille

Founder of Web Market Academy, Marianna Medynska develops online courses in marketing, management, digital advertising and digital skills, available in Ukrainian, French and English.

Tetiana Polhul – Suisse

Holding a PhD in Information Technology, Tetiana Polhul has more than 14 years of experience in artificial intelligence, research and software engineering. Today, she develops innovative technology solutions at the intersection of research and entrepreneurship.

Marghuba Safi – Paris

Founder of Marghoob, Marghuba Safi creates handmade cosmetics using natural and organic ingredients. Her business showcases Afghan craftsmanship while supporting women’s entrepreneurship.

Although their businesses operate in very different sectors, these nine entrepreneurs share a common goal: they are building businesses that respond to real needs, create jobs, preserve valuable skills and develop innovative solutions to today’s challenges.

When entrepreneurship strengthens communities

From food and craftsmanship to technology, education, culture and social entrepreneurship, these nine businesses demonstrate what women with lived experience of displacement can achieve when they have the opportunity to turn their ambitions into reality. Beyond their individual sectors, they create jobs, respond to local needs, preserve valuable skills and contribute to the economic vitality of the communities where they live and work.

Yet women continue to face specific barriers when starting and growing a business. They represent almost 52% of people migrating to Europe and often experience the combined challenges of displacement and gender inequality in the labour market. In this context, tailored support can make a significant difference.

At SINGA, more than half of the people taking part in its entrepreneurship programmes are women. To address the barriers they face, the organisation has developed practical initiatives, including childcare solutions to improve access to training in Bordeaux, safe peer-support spaces through the MONINGA programme in Lyon, and workshops designed to build confidence and strengthen entrepreneurial skills.

The impact is clear: 74% of the women entrepreneurs supported by SINGA say they have improved their professional situation, while 67% report greater self-confidence. The selection of nine members of the SINGA community as Visa Everywhere Pioneers 2026 highlights that investing in entrepreneurship among people with lived experience of displacement is not only an investment in individual success, but also a driver of innovation, inclusion and economic growth across Europe.

Discover the solutions SINGA is developing across Europe to support women’s inclusion >