EDITION 4 : UNLOCKING POTENTIAL : THE DIASPORA AS A RESERVOIR OF MENTORS FOR ENTREPRENEURS IN AFRICA

1. INTRODUCTION

The African diaspora, a global community estimated at 200 million individuals, represents a vast reservoir of expertise, knowledge, and resources.

Many of these people have found success in various fields like technology, finance, healthcare, and education at some of the best companies in the world.

Their experience makes them well-suited to mentor and support entrepreneurs in Africa, and we urge them to consider this opportunity.

There is an African Proverb which says that :

"When spiders unite, they can tie up a lion"

and it emphasizes the power of collaboration. Through collaboration, the African diaspora can offer mentorship opportunities, empowering entrepreneurs in Africa to thrive.

2. BENEFITS OF HAVING DIASPORA MENTORS

Diaspora mentors can provide entrepreneurs in Africa with many benefits such as:

• Access to Global Networks: By introducing entrepreneurs to international networks, opening doors to new markets, investors, and business partners.
• Knowledge Transfer: Offering insights into best practices
• Financial Support: Many diaspora mentors are in a position to provide financial backing and connecting entrepreneurs with potential investors
• Enhanced Credibility: Association with successful individuals from the diaspora can boost the reputation of African businesses, making it easier to attract partners and funding.

As in any mentoring relationship, the mentors also benefit from the knowledge of their mentees. They can learn about new types of businesses, new products, new markets and potential investable businesses.

3. RESOURCES

A) Books

• The Diaspora's Role in Africa: Transculturalism, Challenges, and Development by Stella-Monica N. Mpande
• "The New Global Africans" by Ali A. Mazrui
• The New African Diaspora?by Michael E. Brown

B) Websites

• African Diaspora Network (www.africandiasporanetwork.org)
• The State of African Diaspora (https://thestateofafricandiaspora.com/)

C) Video

• UNIDO Masterclass : Building an Entrepreneurial Bridge between the Continent and the Diaspora

4. TIPS FOR ENTREPRENEURS TO CONNECT WITH DIASPORA MENTORS

• Join professional networks like the African Diaspora Network
• Attend diaspora-focused conferences and virtual networking events
• Engage actively on LinkedIn and Social Media with diaspora professionals in your industry
• Leverage university alumni networks, especially from institutions with strong African student bodies
• Consider joining accelerator programs that connect with diaspora mentors

5. CLOSING

Entrepreneurs in Africa should actively seek out mentors within the diaspora.

The African diaspora should also use their expertise to mentor our African entrepreneurs.

The diaspora mentors are guaranteed to learn more about the business landscape in Africa and opportunities.

Our brothers and sisters in the African diaspora - it's over to you! The doors are open!

Share your thoughts in the Comments or send me a message - let’s start a Conversation!

I hope you found this Edition of "The Mentor's Compass Newsletter" insightful. Feel free to share with fellow entrepreneurs and members of the diaspora. And please do not forget to subscribe if you are not already subscribed.

Please do not forget to Subscribe if you are not already subscribed.

Until next week, keep growing and keep learning!

For your Mentoring requirements, you can reach me by email at [email protected].

Disclaimer: This newsletter provides general information and should not be considered financial or professional advice.