Recently, the U.S. Embassy in Yaoundé received the distinguished visit of five participants from the TechWomen program sponsored by the American people through the U.S. Department of State following their six-week visit to the United States.

They included Mekuate Tayou Christelle Carine, Kapseu Marthe-Beatrice, Danedjo Fouba Dorothee, Germaine Erocknfor, and Sophie Ngassa, who were welcomed by Public Affairs Officer Roberto Quiroz II, Cultural Attaché Merlyn Schultz, Cultural Affairs Specialist Gladys Shang Viban, Cultural Affairs Assistant Olivia Mukam, and Social Media Manager Dorine Takam.

“We laud your extraordinary achievements as Tech Women alumni. As Ambassador Michael S. Hoza has said, the United States is honored to partner with women entrepreneurs like you, whose story can inspire Cameroonian women and girls to follow your example to conceive a dream and persevere to attain it.

We are encouraged that the TechWomen program expanded your professional networks with your counterparts from the United States and other African women leaders like you, whose efforts will greatly contribute to promote a future of prosperity for your fellow citizens through greater innovation and private sector growth. As President Obama has said, no nation which seeks to advance – including the U.S. – can do so without the immense talents and contributions of women,” said Mr. Quiroz.

The participants spent five weeks in the Silicon Valley and San Francisco Bay area, where they engaged in project-based mentorships at leading companies headquartered in the region. These included Symantec, Twitter, Santa Clara University, and Oracle Solaris.

The program provided professional development workshops and networking events; and included visits to Washington, D.C. and New York City for targeted meetings and special events.