Caragh Bennet

Caragh Bennet Bridgwood is the Co-Founder and CEO of ZENA, a non-profit organization focused on empowering female entrepreneurs in Uganda. She has been leading ZENA since its inception in September 2016, with a mission to combat extreme poverty and gender inequality through social entrepreneurship. The organization operates a jewelry brand that not only provides financial support but also helps women gain essential skills to establish their own businesses.13

Background and Education

Caragh studied at the University of Oxford, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Geography from 2014 to 2017. During her time there, she received several academic awards, including the Royal Geographical Society GFGRG Undergraduate Dissertation Award.1

Professional Experience

In addition to her role at ZENA, Caragh has served as a mentor for the MA Entrepreneurship program at Condé Nast College of Fashion & Design. She was also a delegate to the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women in March 2021, highlighting her commitment to advocating for women's rights on an international platform.13

Impact of ZENA

Under Caragh's leadership, ZENA has made significant strides in supporting women in rural Uganda. The organization focuses on providing education and resources to help women overcome barriers such as lack of capital and education, which are prevalent in these communities. The profits from ZENA's jewelry sales are reinvested into programs that offer literacy classes and business training for women.23

Caragh emphasizes that the ultimate goal of ZENA is to enable women to achieve financial independence and improve their quality of life, thereby transforming their communities.3