The finals of the Women Entrepreneur Awards (WEA) will be held this Saturday, 19 October 2024, at the Odysseo Aquarium in Port Louis. The WEA is an organisation dedicated to promoting, supporting, and celebrating Mauritian female entrepreneurs across various sectors. By recognising their remarkable contributions to the economy and their communities, WEA aims to empower women and inspire the next generation of business leaders.
Stéphane Robert, General Manager of Odysseo, explains that supporting WEA this year aligns with Odysseo’s values of inclusivity and community engagement. Odysseo, Mauritius’ largest aquarium, is not only a leading tourist attraction but also a dynamic cultural hub that regularly hosts large-scale events, blending education, sustainability, and creativity. In an exclusive interview, Stéphane shared his thoughts on the venue’s impact, its role in promoting entrepreneurship, and its future initiatives.
How would you describe Odysseo’s overall impact on the local community?
Odysseo has made a significant impact on the local community through various initiatives that promote cultural enrichment, education, and economic growth. By hosting events like the Women Entrepreneurs Award, Odysseo creates opportunities for networking and collaboration among local entrepreneurs. Additionally, the organisation supports local artists and businesses by featuring their work in events and performances.
Odysseo also engages with schools and community programs, offering workshops and educational experiences that inspire young people. This commitment not only fosters talent development but also strengthens community ties, making Odysseo a vital part of the local cultural landscape.
What inspired you to host the Women Entrepreneurs Awards at Odysseo, and how does it align with your values?
Hosting the Women Entrepreneurs Awards at Odysseo was inspired by our commitment to empowering women and promoting diversity in entrepreneurship. We recognise the critical role that women play in driving innovation and economic growth, and we wanted to create a platform that celebrates their achievements and inspires future generations.
This event aligns seamlessly with our core values of inclusivity, support, and community engagement. By showcasing the incredible talent of women entrepreneurs, we aim to foster a sense of belonging and collaboration within the local business landscape. We believe that when women thrive, communities flourish, and our mission is to provide the resources and recognition they deserve.
Additionally, hosting the awards in our best venue allows us to blend artistry with entrepreneurship, creating an inspiring atmosphere that reflects our dedication to creativity and excellence. We envision this event as a catalyst for change, encouraging more women to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams and connect with one another. Ultimately, the Women Entrepreneurs Awards embody our vision of a vibrant, inclusive future where everyone has the opportunity to succeed, reinforcing Odysseo’s role as a supporter of transformative initiatives in the community.
Could you tell us about the facilities Odysseo offers for hosting large-scale events?
Odysseo boasts a range of state-of-the-art facilities designed to accommodate large-scale events, making it an ideal venue for gatherings of all kinds. Our expansive main arena offers a breathtaking backdrop, featuring advanced audiovisual technology that enhances presentations and performances. With flexible seating arrangements, we can host events ranging from conferences to galas, ensuring comfort and visibility for all attendees.
In addition to the main arena, we provide breakout rooms equipped with the latest technology for workshops, meetings, and networking sessions. These versatile spaces can be tailored to meet specific needs, fostering collaboration and engagement among participants.
Our venue is also complemented by ample parking and easy accessibility, making it convenient for guests. Catering services are available, offering a variety of dining options to suit diverse tastes and dietary requirements.
Furthermore, our dedicated event planning team is on hand to assist with logistics, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish. With its stunning setting and comprehensive facilities, Odysseo is committed to delivering memorable experiences for any large-scale event.
How do you see Odysseo contributing to the growth of Mauritius’ economy and tourism industry?
Odysseo plays a pivotal role in the growth of Mauritius’ economy and tourism industry by serving as a dynamic cultural and event hub. By hosting a variety of events, from international competitions to festivals and conferences, Odysseo attracts both local and international visitors, boosting tourism and generating revenue for surrounding businesses.
Our commitment to promoting local talent, particularly in the arts and entrepreneurship, encourages the development of unique experiences that highlight Mauritius’ rich culture. This not only enhances the visitor experience but also positions the island as a vibrant destination for cultural tourism.
Furthermore, Odysseo’s stunning venue and world-class facilities provide opportunities for international events, drawing attention to Mauritius as a viable location for large-scale gatherings. This influx of visitors contributes to increased demand for accommodations, dining, and recreational activities, benefiting the entire economy.
Additionally, our focus on sustainability and community engagement aligns with global tourism trends, attracting eco-conscious travellers and enhancing Mauritius’ reputation as a responsible destination. Overall, Odysseo is dedicated to fostering economic growth and enhancing the tourism landscape, contributing significantly to the island’s long-term prosperity.
What new developments or educational initiatives can we expect to see at Odysseo in the near future?
Odysseo is excited to announce several upcoming projects that reflect our commitment to conservation and education. Through the Odysseo Foundation, we will launch conservation programs focusing on mangrove recovery, seagrass nurseries, and coral recovery through sexual reproduction. These initiatives aim to restore critical marine ecosystems and raise awareness about environmental sustainability.
Additionally, our “Odysseo @ the Schools” program will engage local students in hands-on learning experiences, promoting environmental stewardship and inspiring the next generation of conservationists. This initiative will include workshops and field trips to deepen students’ understanding of marine biology and ecology.
We are also proud to partner with National Geographic for a series of exhibitions that will showcase the beauty and fragility of our planet. These exhibitions will provide educational opportunities, inviting the community to explore pressing environmental issues through immersive experiences.
Together, these projects underscore Odysseo’s dedication to fostering a sustainable future and enhancing our community’s connection to the natural world. We look forward to making a lasting impact through these initiatives and inspiring collective action for conservation.
