Why do I love being a Mentor & Advisor?
I am deeply committed to fostering the growth of founders and businesses, a passion I've professionally pursued as a Fractional CMO and strategist in technology and across many industries and sectors. In the past decade, I've had the honor of mentoring and advising over 200 founders, a diverse group that includes many from underserved Black and Brown communities and female founders. My extensive networks and involvement with established accelerator programs like Techstars, where I serve as a Global Mentor, Act House, and Builders + Backers, have made this mentorship possible. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is witnessing the profound impact of their success on their lives, families, and communities as they, in turn, inspire and support others.
I am also a Founder & Entrepreneur
As a founder and entrepreneur myself, I understand the challenges and uncertainties that come with starting a business. I recently completed Techstars Detroit, serving as a Mentor to the Spring cohort. Previously, I served as a Builder in Residence for Builder + Backers, a three-month idea accelerator program for aspiring entrepreneurs. When I started my entrepreneurial journey, I dreamed of being part of an innovative ecosystem that nurtured ideas, provided guidance, and fueled growth, but that didn't exist back then. At best, there were incubator programs that, due to their bandwidth, were difficult to get into and just seemed out of reach.
These programs allow entrepreneurs with great ideas who may still need to gain the skills and experience necessary to succeed access to mentors and networks. Mentors provide hands-on support, strategic insights, and problem-solving expertise. The objective is to foster a collaborative environment that facilitates the growth of promising startups.
I am deeply passionate about being part of the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem in this role, where I can share my experience, passion, and commitment to entrepreneurship and help others fulfill their dreams. It's not just a job for me, but a calling that fuels my drive and keeps me inspired every day.
Through these programs, a vibrant startup ecosystem is always teeming with energy, enthusiasm, and great ideas. These spaces are conducive environments where ideas flourish, collaborations are encouraged, and knowledge is shared freely. Interacting with fellow entrepreneurs and engaging with passionate individuals from diverse backgrounds is genuinely refreshing and ignites my entrepreneurial spirit.
Hands-on Support For Founders
As a mentor, my primary responsibility is to provide hands-on support to founders. I get to know them personally, understand their pain points and struggles and offer strategic solutions. Whether refining their business models, optimizing their operational processes, or enhancing their go-to-market strategies, or a simple pep-talk, I help by providing expertise to drive their success.
The collaborative nature of these programs fosters an environment that encourages exchange among its diverse community of entrepreneurs. Regular meetups, workshops, and brainstorming sessions allow participants to exchange ideas, share experiences, and learn from each other's successes and failures. This collaborative learning approach empowers founders to think outside of their comfort zone, explore new perspectives, and expand their horizons as entrepreneurs.
Access to resources and networks plays a critical role in the growth of startups. Providing opportunities to connect with potential investors, industry leaders, and successful entrepreneurs through networking events and pitch sessions is only part of the solution. Creating avenues for collaboration and growth is another.
Personal and Professional Growth:
My work as a mentor and advisor has been a transformative experience that has contributed immensely to my personal and professional growth. I plan to teach by creating courses and continue to mentor and advise. This commitment to continuous growth and learning is a testament to my dedication to the entrepreneurial community and my desire to make a lasting impact on the echosystem.
