Join Us for the Launch of the FAO-IAFN SME Mentorship Accelerator Programme’s 3rd Cohort!
We are thrilled to announce the launch of the third cohort of the FAO-IAFN SME Mentorship Accelerator Programme during the Science and Innovation Forum at the World Food Forum in Rome, Italy! Mark your calendars for Thursday, October 17th, from 13:00 to 13:30 CET in the Red Room of the FAO Headquarters.
This exciting event will feature speakers from FAO and IAFN, alongside mentees from previous cohorts and a dedicated mentor. Together, they will share inspiring stories of success and discuss the expectations for the new cohort, which will run for nine months from October 2024 to June 2025.
Since its inception in October 2022, the programme has flourished, growing from 100 to 150 direct beneficiaries with this new cohort of 50 mentees! The ripple effect of this initiative is immense, as these mentees support over half a million people across the continent. By sourcing from cooperatives and individual farmers, they not only create jobs but also foster sustainable economic development and contribute to food and nutrition security.
Empowering Change Across the Continent
This year, our diverse group of mentees is engaged in a wide range of activities throughout the entire value chain, with a significant focus on value addition, processing, and innovative agricultural technologies. Their efforts are transforming food systems and paving the way for more resilient and sustainable practices across Africa. These talented individuals hail from 19 African countries, including six Francophonie and one Portuguese-speaking nation.
A Global Network of Mentors
We are equally excited about our dedicated mentors, who come from 22 countries across the globe. Their commitment to empowering these women entrepreneurs is invaluable. Many mentors have been with us since the programme’s launch, while others are returning for a second time. Their support often exceeds the anticipated six sessions, with some mentors connecting with their mentees up to 20 times and maintaining relationships long after the initial engagement. We are particularly proud to welcome former mentees who are now stepping up as mentors themselves!
Celebrate with Us!
We invite you to join us for this milestone celebration as we reflect on the achievements of the past two years and welcome our third cohort. If you’re in Rome, come celebrate with us in the Red Room at FAO Headquarters. If you can’t be there in person, don’t worry—you can still participate virtually!
Register here to secure your spot for this momentous occasion.
We look forward to seeing you there and to another year of making a significant impact together!
