This week we get riled up over Libya’s women’s soccer, we check out how two women are saving the planet, and we get some great advice from an entrepreneurial muse.

1. Libyan women’s soccer team banned at international game

Controversy broke out recently over the decision of Libyan sporting authorities’ to ban their women’s football team from attending an international game taking place in Germany.  While the official reason given has been that they should not be playing soccer during the month of Ramadan, the team is also under threat from religious extremists, leading many to believe it to be a direct warning to women in sporting teams.  Read more about it here.

2. Egyptian feminists call for equal representation in government

While Libya’s women’s soccer team mourns, other women’s groups are celebrating some wins this week.  The Coalition of Egyptian Feminist Organisations called on their government to ensure that the committee that drafts the new constitution ensures equal representation of women in government.  While the previous government ignored their demands, there are high hopes that women’s voices will be heard this time around to ensure the new government receives stable public backing.  Check the details here.

3. Daily Muse co-founder Kathryn Minshew shares her entrepreneurial journey

We all need a muse at times, especially when we are planning on taking the plunge and starting our own business. Kathryn Minshew is no stranger to navigating the waters of entrepreneurship, especially when it comes to finding inspiration.  This week Minshew spoke to the Huffington Post about her own start up, The Daily Muse, and how she took her first steps into self-employment.  As an expert on inspiring start-ups by providing great advice and solid support, this interview with Minshew is sure to get your creative juices flowing and business ideas growing, so check it out

4. Trailblazing women create innovative products for climate change

Is this year’s winter weather not quite what you expected?  You can bet that summer in the Northern Hemisphere isn’t quite what our northerly friends expected either.  As global warming and climate change really start to take effect, small businesses are becoming mindful of their practices and products to help reduce their carbon footprint.  Adriana Silvia Sartor, and Nina McLemore are two trailblazing women doing just that with their businesses.  As Sartor creates devices to measure and control energy outputs and sources, McLemore monitors global weather patterns so she can predict the cost and quality of fabrics for her leading international fashion firm, Nina McLemore.  Read more about both these innovative women here.

5. Indonesian government ratify law to ensure female participation in politics

After years of observing a widening divide between the sexes in Indonesia, their government has decided to take action to counteract the problem.  They have announced that political parties must ensure that at least 30% of their candidates are female and those who fail to meet the requirement will be penalised.  While some opposition to the new law was voiced, women are nonetheless celebrating the step towards getting their voices heard within politics.  Read more about this story here.

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