Imagine developing your business idea, building networks in Europe and at the same time living in a new country for a few months.

That's exactly what Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs offers, an EU-funded exchange program that helps hundreds of new entrepreneurs grow every year through collaboration, exchange of experiences and inspiration.

Here, both Divine Ishimwe and Tanzila Khan talk about their experiences.

When Divine Ishimwe received the link to the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs application from a friend, it was in the middle of a time of uncertainty. She had just left a job where she felt unfairly treated and didn’t know what to do next. But then the program came along. A chance to go abroad, work on her business idea and develop as an entrepreneur. “It felt like the right timing. I’ve always been creative, and I wanted to create something of my own. The opportunity to live in a new country, meet new people and grow as a person at the same time, it was both scary and exciting,” she says.

Balance is important

Divine Ishimwe, who grew up outside Rwanda and Kenya and in South Africa and moved to Sweden as a teenager, has always had an eye for fashion and sustainability. Her background in textile product development and her desire to contribute to social change led her to start the beauty company Divian. A company where sustainability and inclusion are at the center. For example, she is currently working on a hair extension product that is intended to appeal to a target group with curly and thick hair. During her Erasmus exchange, Divine Ishimwe found her host in Treviso, Italy. There, Giovanni quickly became more than just a mentor. “He taught me not only about entrepreneurship, but also about balance in life. He used to say that it is important to work hard, but also to enjoy life, especially in Italy,” says Divine Ishimwe.

“Opened new opportunities”

The experience has influenced her on several levels. Among other things, she gained in-depth knowledge of social media and content production, which sparked new ideas about future career paths. – I started making short films, writing scripts, editing and analyzing content. It opened up completely new possibilities for me. I got to try out most things. Now I know exactly how to produce my content for my own products. But I can also see myself working as a social media strategist for others and producing their content, which I have already taken on assignments in.

Inspiring mentor

For Pakistani Tanzila Khan , who lives in Sweden and is herself in a wheelchair, the program became a path into European entrepreneurship, and a way to develop her passion for accessibility in tourism. “I wanted to find a place where I could learn more about how to work with accessibility standards in the hotel and travel industry,” she says. After a while of searching, she found a female host in the Canary Islands who runs a hotel, Jo Hendrickx, who runs a sustainability consulting company. There she gained both practical experience and personal development. “My mentor was one of the most inspiring people I have ever met. She taught me not only how to run a business with sustainability, but also how to work with my mental barriers as a new entrepreneur. It was a real awakening with many aha moments,” says Tanzila Khan.

Great potential

She also gained insight into the technical challenges of accessibility, but above all, the realization that empathy and courage are just as important as knowledge. “I learned that entrepreneurship is about daring. About stepping outside your comfort zone,” she says. The program has also given her a lifelong relationship with her mentor. “We still keep in touch. She has become a role model for me, both professionally and personally. For Tanzila Khan, the exchange has strengthened her belief that inclusion is not just a moral issue, it is also a business opportunity.” “I want to continue working for more inclusive tourism and show that accessibility is not an obstacle, but an opportunity for innovation.”

“Throw yourself in”

Both Divine Ishimwe and Tanzila Tanzila Khan agree that the program has changed the way they see themselves and their business. “I have gained so much confidence,” says Divine Ishimwe. “I now know that entrepreneurship is not just about an idea, but about seeing opportunities everywhere.” Tanzila Khan adds. “I would say to everyone, especially those who doubt themselves or have a disability, that this program is something you should just jump into. You have nothing to lose. You have already won when you sign up. To all the aspiring entrepreneurs reading this, if you are looking for an experience that will not only accelerate your business development but also profoundly change your personal and professional outlook on life, I cannot recommend the program enough.

If Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs - An EU-funded exchange program that matches new entrepreneurs with experienced entrepreneurs in other European countries. The purpose is to exchange experiences, develop business ideas and strengthen cooperation between Europe's entrepreneurs. - The program is funded by EU funds and coordinated in Sweden by, among others, European Minds. - You can read more about the program here.