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About Accelerate Women

Power and purpose, in equal measure.

A platform of Accelerate Foundation dedicated to empowering women through leadership, entrepreneurship, and capacity-building — from Tanzania to New York and beyond.

Bernice Fernandes, Founder of Accelerate Women
Our Story

Founded by Bernice Fernandes

Bernice Fernandes is the Founder of Accelerate Women, CEO of Accelerate Business Group, and Executive Director of Accelerate Foundation. An internationally recognised stage host, emcee, and public speaking coach based in Tanzania, she brings over a decade of experience to boardrooms, ballrooms, and stages across East Africa.

Bernice is the voice trusted to host some of Tanzania's biggest platforms — including Co-Host of the Miss World Tanzania Grand Finale (2026), the country's first-ever Miss World pageant, and MC of the Tanzania–Kenya Investment Forum, where she guided bilateral agreements witnessed by two Heads of State.

As Convener of the Accelerate Women Executive Summit and founder of Accelerate Women East Africa, she has built a platform reaching over 5,000 women across the region, focused on leadership, entrepreneurship, and capacity-building. Her signature keynote topics include Stage Presence & Confidence, Women, Wealth & Leadership, and Storytelling for Brands.

Power & Purpose

The theme behind our work

Power and Purpose speaks to the alignment of influence, leadership, and intentional impact — challenging women to not only step into positions of power, but to wield that power with vision and clarity.

1

Lead with confidence

Equip women leaders with tools to lead with confidence and clarity.

2

Strengthen networks

Strengthen networks to lead with confidence and clarity across sectors.

3

Financial inclusion

Improve access to capital and financial systems for women entrepreneurs.

4

Technology & innovation

Enable women to leverage AI and emerging technology for growth.

Aligned with Global Goals

Sustainable Development Goals we address

5

SDG 5

Gender Equality — advancing women's leadership and equal opportunity.

8

SDG 8

Decent Work and Economic Growth — expanding access to opportunity and capital.

10

SDG 10

Reduced Inequalities — building a stronger, more equitable economy for all.

Governance

Advisory Board

Guiding Accelerate Women's strategy and long-term vision.

Monica Hangi

Advisory Board Member

Rev. Laurie Idahosa

Advisory Board Member

Want to be part of the story?

Join our next summit, partner with us, or bring Accelerate Women to your city.

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