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Sixty percent of micro and small businesses in El Salvador are led by women, while 26% of medium-sized businesses are also headed by women, highlighted Leticia Escobar, president of the Cámara de Comercio e Industria de El Salvador (Camarasal), during the XXII Congreso Mujer y Liderazgo, held under the theme “Leading with Purpose, Living with Balance.”
The event, organized by CAMARASAL’s Businesswomen’s Committee, brought together businesswomen, professionals, and leaders from various sectors to strengthen knowledge, share experiences, and promote opportunities for growth, leadership, and well-being for Salvadoran women.
Escobar emphasized that women have become a key driver of the national economy, especially due to their participation in the business sector and job creation.
“Sixty percent of micro and small businesses are led by women, and 26% of medium-sized businesses are also led by women, making us a significant engine of the economy”, she said.
Female leadership with economic impact
The president of Camarasal pointed out that strengthening women’s capabilities has a direct impact not only on individual professional development but also on businesses, work teams, and the economic environment.
“When we invest in a woman’s training, it not only improves the woman herself but also her colleagues and her environment”, she affirmed.
In that regard, she emphasized the importance of continuing to create spaces for training, support, and leadership that expand opportunities for women within the Salvadoran business ecosystem.
“True progress happens when we open spaces where none existed before”, Escobar said.
Congress promotes leadership with balance and purpose
The XXII Congreso Mujer y Liderazgo, was held as part of Camarasal’s 110th anniversary celebrations and focused on topics related to conscious leadership, holistic well-being, innovation, professional growth, and business strengthening.
During the event, conferences and discussion panels were offered to promote more humane, authentic, and balanced leadership, as well as the use of technology and innovation as tools to enhance competitiveness.
Among the presentations, topics such as “The Hidden Price of Success: How to Lead with Clarity, Not with Sacrifice” and “Leading with Purpose, Living with Balance” stood out.
In addition, conversations were fostered on empathy, authenticity, support networks, and professional development for women entrepreneurs and professionals.
Recognition of women’s business trajectory
As part of the event, the Camarasal Women Entrepreneurs Committee presented the twentieth Mujer Destacada, award, which this year was given to Yolanda de Vides, president of Droguería y Laboratorios Vides.
The businesswoman was recognized for her career, leadership, and contributions to the development of the Salvadoran pharmaceutical sector.
Women’s Leadership gains greater prominence
During the congress, it was also highlighted that women’s leadership has evolved significantly in recent decades and continues to gain ground in the country’s business and economic decision-making.
Escobar noted that this congress has become one of the leading training and inspirational spaces for salvadoran businesswomen, thanks to the work driven by women who committed to creating opportunities and strengthening support networks more than two decades ago.
“The success of other women doesn’t diminish us; it shows us that it’s possible”, she said.
Camarasal strengthens international business presence
At the event, Camarasal also highlighted its participation in international organizations related to trade, business integration, and economic development.
The union is part of entities such as the Asociación Iberoamericana de Cámaras de Comercio, Industria y Servicios (AICO), Federación de Cámaras de Comercio del Istmo Centroamericano (FECAMCO), Cámaras Latinas en Estados Unidos (CAMACOL), Cámara Internacional de Comercio (ICC) and Organización Mundial de Ciudades y Plataformas Logísticas.
According to the institution, this representation strengthens business cooperation and expands El Salvador’s presence in regional and international forums focused on economic and commercial development.
The XXII Congreso Mujer y Liderazgo, also had the support of national and international companies and institutions committed to strengthening women’s leadership and the country’s business growth.
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