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About The Program

The STAWI Mentorship Program aims to connect aspiring and existing entrepreneurs of African descent with experienced mentors. Our mission is simple yet powerful: to provide guidance, support, and authentic connections for entrepreneurs to grow their businesses, advance in their careers, and thrive.

About STAWI

The word STAWI is a swahili word that means “to thrive or bloom” STAWI is more than a mentorship program; it's a community of empowerment and growth. We believe in the transformative power of mentorship, especially for entrepreneurs of African descent. Studies have shown that culturally appropriate and relevant mentorship increases participants' self confidence and sense of belonging. By matching mentors with mentees, we create pathways for success, collaboration, and meaningful connections.

Program objectives

● Promote Entrepreneurial Success: Provide aspiring and existing entrepreneurs of African descent with the guidance, resources, and support they need to succeed in their ventures.
● Facilitate Business Growth: Help mentees refine their business models, navigate challenges, and explore new opportunities for growth and expansion.
● Advance Career Development: Assist mentees in developing the skills, knowledge, and networks necessary to excel in their careers, whether as business owners or professionals.
● Foster Authentic Connections: Build a community where mentees can establish meaningful relationships with mentors and peers, creating a supportive network for collaboration and growth.
● Representation: Recognize the unique challenges faced by entrepreneurs of African descent and provide a space where culturally relevant guidance and support can happen.


This is program is for you if

● You are an aspiring entrepreneur with a business idea or are in the early stages of entrepreneurship, we’re here to help you build a solid business foundation.
● You’re an existing entrepreneur, a startup founder or small business owner our mentors can provide guidance to help you grow and scale
● You are a career professional looking to transition into entrepreneurship or exploring new opportunities.
● You are able to commit to a minimum of 2 hours per month for 1:1 support and guidance
● You want to grow personally and professionally, have a positive mindset and use your energy and time effectively
● You have a desire to learn, want to scale your business, build a circle of influence, secure business opportunities and make meaningful connections.

How It Works


There are two streams to choose from

1. 1 on 1 mentorship: this is on an ongoing basis for a period of 4 months. The mentor and mentee will have a committed relationship for the duration of the period and will be required to meet at a minimum of 2 hours per month and 2 in-person meetings if they both reside in the same city.

2. Mentorship on demand: to accommodate the busy lives of both mentors and mentees this stream is accessible on an as needed basis, where an entrepreneur can get assistance when they need it without the constraints of being in a traditional mentorship commitment.

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Contact Us


Have a question? Please contact us at stawimentorship@africacentre.ca .