What It Takes to Be a Woman Entrepreneur

What’s a moment in your entrepreneurial journey that made you think, “Yes, this is why I do what I do”?

Angela Ursem
“Food for Skin won not just one, but two golden awards at the Dutch Beauty Awards. This for me was the point of proof that we are able to gain position in a fierce competitive skincare landscape. That we can create impact, that our products are of top notch quality. This is when I realized we can make it happen, we can proof that building a premium brand can go hand in hand with sustainability! This kept me going! It was a rollercoaster the first 4 years, but we are here to stay!”

Sara Okhuijsen
“Our mission at OASYS NOW has always been to make healthcare more equitable, accessible, and personal, particularly for underrepresented groups in medical research. What drives me is knowing we are building privacy-preserving infrastructure that puts patients first. My interdisciplinary background enables me to bridge people a way that brings true innovation. When you see that innovation empowers someone, you realize: this is why we do what we do.”

Dr. Sinéad Hewson
“Over the years, I have developed projects designed to help new arrivals, underrepresented individuals, internationals, and students ideate and consider whether they want to start a business or develop an innovative idea or work-around that has the potential to solve a problem.
It gives me joy when I meet someone who says, ‘I set up my business’ or ‘kept going,’ because you ‘believed in me when no one else would’.
This part of my work operates under the radar. The people I work with are diverse; they are nudged to take the first step, move forward, pivot, and keep going. For example, the artist whose work was exhibited in the International Space Station, an NGO working with indigenous communities in Colombia, reseeding rainforests with a business model to generate revenue for the community. The entrepreneur who established a supply system for honey producers to sell and authenticate their produce and build revenue streams for local communities. The tour operator and activist who has developed a standards system to train and audit organisations in the hospitality sector on the wide spectrum of access needs for customers with disabilities for international use. Researchers, tax advisors, well-being experts, creatives, communicators, pastors and so much more. I love what I do.”

Yasmina Khababi
“For me, that defining moment came when we reached 10,000 donated meals through our Share a Meal program worldwide. The program allows customers to buy a meal for themselvess and donate one to a person in need. We do the cooking and distribution. In this case: It wasn’t just about the number, it was about witnessing how our customers transformed into true partners on our mission.  Seeing how something that was once only my dream turning into something where so many people are willing and able to join us in creating a lasting legacy confirmed that the work we do goes far beyond business; it’s about real impact and meaningful change.”

What’s one practical piece of advice you’d give to a woman starting her own business today?

Angela Ursem
“I’d love to say: no other advice then I’d give to men, but to all: do own and know your numbers. You have to be on top of your financials, your KPI’s, your business ratio’s. Data means everything. If you can’t dream your margins, your ROI, your CLTV, you’re not on top of it. If you need help with it, get help, but make sure the helper learns you how to own it!
And super important: embrace AI with both hands. Now! Don’t postpone or ‘let somebody of the team do it’. It will makes your life easier and your business grow faster.”

Sara Okhuijsen
“Don’t wait to be ready—just start. Go out and speak about your ideas, even when they feel half-formed. Practice pitching, ask for feedback, and build a network of champions who believe in you and push you forward.”

Dr. Sinéad Hewson
“One piece of advice? One word: START.
Actively engage with your ideal customers. Listen to their feedback. They are the ones who will allow you and your business to thrive.
Trust yourself.
Listen (selectively), learn, stay humble and curious.
Use mistakes and negative feedback as a springboard to build a better you, a better business
Clearly state what you need. Talk about money and value.
The entrepreneurial journey for women is different; own it and map your own path. It is unique.”

Yasmina Khababi
“Find your mission first. When your purpose is clear and personal, the business becomes a powerful vehicle to bring it to life. Let your mission be your North Star — everything else will follow. Starting a business can feel overwhelming with so many moving parts—finances, marketing, product development—but having a clear mission gives you direction and resilience. Your mission anchors your decisions and motivates you through challenges because it’s tied to something deeper than just profit or success. When you know why you do what you do, you attract customers, partners, and team members who believe in that same vision. This alignment creates energy and momentum that helps your business grow authentically and sustainably. So before diving into the “how,” spend time understanding your purpose. That clarity will guide your strategy, your brand, and ultimately, your impact.”

How has being part of a supportive community contributed to your growth as a founder?

Angela Ursem
“Community is what keeps me going. For practical tips about e-commerce but also for moral support when the going gets tough. Make sure you have several communities, of all genders where you feel free to ask and share! Sometimes you’re the mentor, sometimes the mentee. You’re never too old to learn!”

Sara Okhuijsen
“Having a supportive team has been transformative. They gave me the space to grow into leadership and the confidence to trust my instincts. Our culture at OASYS NOW is not just about building great tech—it’s about building each other up.
Beyond our immediate team, I’ve also leaned heavily on a network of experienced advisors and investors who didn’t just invest money—they invested belief. Finding people who advocate for you in rooms you’re not in is a game-changer. Their support helped me develop clarity, resilience, and perspective during some of the most challenging parts of our journey.”

Dr. Sinéad Hewson
“My network is one built on trust, compassion and hard truths. They are my rock. In the Randstadt, it’s the INBA, WBII, We are Changemakers, Webster University (Leiden Campus), FemaleVentures to mention a few. Also FemaleVentures members generously gave time and feedback on my original idea, which pivoted me back to the original idea for Unconventional Innovators.”

Yasmina Khababi
“Having a supportive community of like-minded people—especially those who are further along in their journey, has been one of the greatest gifts in my entrepreneurial path. We openly share our experiences, celebrate wins, and learn from losses together. It’s a powerful reminder that beneath all the titles and achievements, we are all human, facing similar challenges and doubts. What truly makes the difference is having a network that believes in your company’s mission just as passionately as you do. That shared belief creates a foundation of trust and encouragement that fuels resilience and creativity. It’s a blessing to know that when things get tough, you’re not alone. At the end of the day, entrepreneurship is never a solo venture. It really does take a village — whether it’s that one referral that opens a new door, a fresh connection who brings new energy, or an inspiring conversation that shifts your perspective. Every single piece contributes to the momentum and success we build. This sense of community has been crucial in helping me grow, both as a founder and as a person.”