ASR Africa to expand women’s mentorship across Africa
The Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa) has convened key stakeholders in New York, United States, to deliberate on the future of its mentorship programme, which aims to empower
- By Akintunde Olamide
The Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa) has convened key stakeholders in New York, United States, to deliberate on the future of its mentorship programme, which aims to empower young women in tertiary institutions across Africa.
The high-level meeting, which held last Monday, was on the sidelines of the 70th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women- a global platform dedicated to advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment. It brought together both existing and new mentors from Africa and the diaspora to chart a strategic direction for the next phase of the initiative.
Speaking at the event, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, ASR Africa, Ubon Udoh, commended mentors for their commitment since the programme’s inception. He described the mentorship initiative as one of ASR Africa’s most impactful interventions, emphasising its ability to provide clarity and ease the transition of young women from school into professional life.
Also speaking, the guest of honour and co-chair of NGO CSW New York, Pamela Morgan, praised the organisation for sustaining the programme. She noted that beyond formal education, mentorship has become a critical tool for empowering women globally. Morgan urged mentors to continue investing their time and resources, while also learning from the experiences of the mentees.
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A major highlight of the event was the presentation of certificates to distinguished mentors in recognition of their contributions and impact. Discussions also underscored the transformative role mentorship plays in shaping the academic and career trajectories of young women.
Since its launch, the ASR Africa Mentorship Programme has impacted over 200 mentees across institutions in Nigeria, Zambia and Senegal. Plans are underway to expand the initiative to Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, and other African countries.
The programme is part of ASR Africa’s broader commitment to driving sustainable development across the continent through targeted interventions in education, health, and social development.
The gathering served as both a reflection and a planning forum, highlighting the achievements of the mentorship programme over the past three years. Participants reviewed its impact on mentees’ academic, personal, and professional development, noting its role in fostering leadership skills and preparing young women for career success.
Founded in 2021 by African industrialist and Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu ASR Africa focuses on delivering homegrown solutions to key developmental challenges across Africa.
