As editor and publisher of Enterprising Women Magazine, Monica Smiley knows the challenges women face in business. Yet what she’s seen here in the U.S. pales to the experiences of female entrepreneurs in Afghanistan and Rwanda. Their resilience and ability to succeed, however, leaves her continually inspired.

Through her work with the Peace Through Business program, she’s helped mentor women through the unique challenges they face in their home country. In Afghanistan, women must still deal with the Taliban and major barriers to entry. In Rwanda, women are embracing technology and playing a pivotal role in rebuilding the country, though gender stereotypes remain. Learn more about these moving stories and how these women are ‘holding up the sky.’