Meet The Crew At BNT and Arielle For Africa's Abundance Summit and Showcase 2024

Hey everyone, it's time for you to get to know the powerhouse team driving The Abundance Summit These leaders are committed to elevating startups from Boston and Africa, fostering connections with investors, and creating a space for meaningful cross-continental collaboration.

Edith Wangare Njage, MSc – Founder and Chief Steward, Arielle for Africa

Edith Njage is the visionary force behind Arielle for Africa. With a focus on job creation, entrepreneurship, and sustainability, Edith has empowered an incredible multitude of entrepreneurs, innovators, creators, and bold dreamers across the continent and throughout the diaspora. Her work spans critical sectors like healthcare, education, and technology, positioning her as a leading advocate for Africa’s entrepreneurial growth on a global stage. Through Arielle for Africa, Edith ensures that African founders have the tools and mentorship they need to succeed.

?? Nandi Mwkwanazi – Chief Sustainability and Programs Officer, Arielle for Africa

Nandi Mwkwanazi leads the sustainability and program initiatives at Arielle for Africa, ensuring that startups receive crucial mentorship and resources. Nandi’s dedication to sustainable business practices shapes the future of the entrepreneurs she supports, fostering businesses that are built to last.

?? Feruz Semere – Co-Founder/Director, Arielle for Africa

As Co-Founder and Director of Arielle for Africa, Feruz Semere helps drive the organization’s mission to provide African startups with global opportunities. His work focuses on strategic planning and operational growth, ensuring that Arielle for Africa continues to empower thousands of entrepreneurs across the continent.

?? Somtochukwu Nwadukwe – Head of Operations and Administration, Arielle for Africa

Somtochukwu Nwadukwe manages the day-to-day operations of Arielle for Africa, ensuring seamless execution of the programs and services that support the continent’s emerging entrepreneurs. His organizational expertise ensures that every founder receives the support they need to thrive.

?? Elishama Mumo Kyoya – Chief Client and Research Officer, Arielle for Africa

Elishama Mumo Kyoya focuses on client relations and market research at Arielle for Africa, providing critical insights that help startups navigate complex markets. His work ensures that every entrepreneur receives customized solutions that address their specific needs, enabling successful business growth.

?? Steve Vilkas – The One With The Jokes

Steve Vilkas is the Chief Operating Officer at Prepare 4 VC and Co-Director at Boston New Technology (BNT), where he plays a pivotal role in supporting startups through mentorship, strategic growth, and community-building. With a focus on innovation and venture development, Steve drives initiatives that connect founders with investors and resources to accelerate their growth. His leadership extends to organizing major events like The Abundance Summit, fostering global collaboration between startups from Boston and Africa. Steve’s dedication to building a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem also includes his work with Born Global Boston, where he bridges local innovation with international opportunities. His passion for technology, AI, and leadership fuels his mission to empower the next generation of founders.

?? Shweta Agrawal – Co-Director, Boston New Technology & Lead Organizer, Techstars Startup Weekend 2025

Shweta Agrawal is a product strategy expert and Co-Director at Boston New Technology (BNT). She is also the Lead Organizer for Techstars Startup Weekend 2025 and a seasoned mentor at Techstars and Cornell University. Shweta has been instrumental in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship through her work with StartOut, Out In Tech, and ProductCamp Boston. Her leadership in organizing impactful startup events continues to shape the startup ecosystem, helping early-stage entrepreneurs build strong foundations for success.

?? Jason Kraus – Co-Director, Boston New Technology & CEO, Prepare 4 VC

Jason Kraus serves as Co-Director of Boston New Technology and leads Prepare 4 VC as its CEO, where he focuses on helping startups accelerate their growth through structured programs, mentorship, and funding support. Jason’s extensive background in finance and venture development enables him to guide entrepreneurs through critical phases of fundraising and business strategy, positioning them for long-term success. His dedication to fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial community has been key to advancing Boston’s reputation as a global innovation hub.

?? The Abundance Summit 2024 will bring together top startups from Boston and Africa, offering a global platform for them to showcase their innovations to investors, mentors, and stakeholders. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness groundbreaking entrepreneurship at its best! ????

Stay tuned for more event details and get ready to be inspired by this remarkable gathering of cross-border innovators.