A gathering of powers: The REDI Summit convened key figures for Roma inclusion
Petrică Dulgheru: REDI SUMMIT isn't just about highlighting challenges, but about reframing them as opportunities for Roma entrepreneurs to thrive
Zeljko Jovanovic: The Roma are becoming TOO BIG TO FAIL
The 2024 REDI SUMMIT in Skopje, North Macedonia, wasn’t just a conference – it was a meeting of minds dedicated to empowering Roma entrepreneurs and fostering a brighter future. This year’s theme, “Roma Inclusivity in Green & Digital – Innovation and Environmental Equity,” underscored the critical role Roma communities play in building a more sustainable and inclusive world. But the true power of the event came from the high-level attendees who brought their experience and influence to the table.
Setting the Stage for Change:
The opening panel, “Unlocking Opportunities: Exploring Innovative Financing for Roma Entrepreneurship and Community Development,” set the tone for collaboration. Mr. Petrica Dulgheru, Executive Director of the REDI Network, delivered a powerful message: “The REDI SUMMIT isn’t just about highlighting challenges, but about reframing them as opportunities for Roma entrepreneurs to thrive“. Mr. Fatmir Bytyqi, Deputy President of the Government of North Macedonia, along with Mr. Gjoko Velkovski, Minister of Labor and Social Policy, demonstrated the commitment of national leadership to Roma inclusion. Mr. Zeljko Jovanovic, Executive Director of the Roma Foundation for Europe, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the growing economic power of Roma communities with his declaration: “The Roma are becoming TOO BIG TO FAIL!” Mr. Elvis Memeti, Advisor for Roma Inclusion to the Prime Minister, solidified the message that Roma inclusion is a national priority.
Expertise and Experience Combine for Action:
The fire was further stoked by the diverse panel of experts in Panel I. Mr. Bogdan Merfea, Executive Director of the REDI Fund, along with Mr. Tudor Hanea, REDI Fund Manager, provided valuable insights into alternative financing solutions. Mr. Bogdan Tatarchevskiy from the Open Society Foundation, Mr. Vase Davaliev from the Microcredit Foundation Horizonti, Ms. Raluca Andreica from Patria Credit, and Mr. Lazar Nedanoski from the Macedonian Foundation for Enterprise Development, each brought their unique experience in impact investing, microfinance, and community development to the table. This wealth of expertise promised a future filled with innovative solutions for Roma entrepreneurs.
This is just the beginning of the story, of course. Stay tuned as we delve deeper into the other panels and the inspiring individuals who came together at the REDI SUMMIT 2024 to pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future!
