Mentorship at Amahoro: A Transformative Initiative for Refugee-Led Enterprises

A year ago on World Refugee Day (June 20, 2024), Amahoro Coalition, in collaboration with PSA BDP, global leader in freight logistics, proudly launched a mentorship initiative for our fellows who are building enterprises across Africa.

Rooted in the belief that access to guidance accelerates growth, the mentorship  connects emerging entrepreneurs in the Amahoro fellowship program  to seasoned industry leaders.

“Studies show that 70% of small businesses that receive mentoring survive for five years or more, which is double the rate of those that don't receive mentoring.”

A year ago on World Refugee Day (June 20, 2024), Amahoro Coalition, in collaboration with PSA BDP, global leader in freight logistics, proudly launched a mentorship initiative for our fellows who are building enterprises across Africa.

Rooted in the belief that access to guidance accelerates growth, the mentorship  connects emerging entrepreneurs in the Amahoro fellowship program  to seasoned industry leaders.

“Studies show that 70% of small businesses that receive mentoring survive for five years or more, which is double the rate of those that don't receive mentoring.”

How would you describe the mentorship program?

What have you learned about yourself through the mentorship relationship?

Maurdi Kiza Ramadhan

There were several things I hadn’t been able to communicate clearly until I went through the mentorship program. It gave me the chance to reflect deeply on where I started and what it truly takes to move forward successfully. Four key elements became central to our discussions: financial management, human resources, strategic planning, and operational planning. We took the time to explore each one in depth, and the lessons I learned from those conversations are ones I hold close to my heart.

Abubakar Rugamba

Engaging with my mentor has helped me realize that the challenges I’ve faced growing up in a refugee context and building initiatives like Easy Fitgang have actually shaped me into a resilient, visionary leader.

How would you describe the relationship you have built with your mentor?

How has the mentoring shaped you as an individual and the growth of your initiative/organization?

Maurdi Kiza Ramadhan

Mentorship has truly helped me explore ways to minimize expenditure and maximize revenue generation. Although my venture is still in its early stages, our discussions focused on developing strategies to position our graduates effectively in the market by embracing apprenticeships and internships. We also discussed how to attract and build the right talent at AReL, people who will drive the impact we envision in the communities we serve. Another key part of our conversation was looking at the bigger picture: where we want to be in the next four years and what it will take to get there.

Asiimwe Gloria

The mentorship has made me a better leader by being a good story teller, analytical leader, charismatic and determined for success.

Shalom Ishimwe

It helped me to focus on one thing instead of doing everything at the same time.

Abubakar Rugamba

The mentorship has had a profound impact on both my personal growth and the development of my initiative Easy Fitgang. As an individual, it has helped me become more self-aware, focused, and strategic. I’ve learned to reflect more deeply on my leadership style, strengths, and areas where I need growth. With my mentor’s support, I’ve been able to set clearer goals for my future, and build confidence in my ability to lead with purpose. For Easy Fitgang, the mentorship has helped me shift from simply organizing activities to thinking more sustainably how to create long-term impact, make money to be self reliant. The guidance I’ve received has helped me refine our vision, strengthen our messaging, and approach donors and collaborators more effectively

Zang Luka

The mentoring has been so transformative and has profoundly shaped me as an individual and significantly contributed to the growth of my organization. It has developed a deeper understanding of my strengths and areas for improvement, which has enhanced my self-confidence and leadership abilities. My mentor's guidance has encouraged me to embrace challenges and view them as opportunities for growth, fostering a resilient mindset. On a practical level, the insights and strategies shared by my mentor have been instrumental in refining my approach to my organization. His expertise has helped me identify key areas for development, allowing me to implement effective strategies that align with our mission, and has improved our operational efficiency.

Michelle Mzee-Paintsil

Business: Kara has been very helpful to JCKFRUT. Her guidance has led to real improvements in our services and ad campaigns, but two moments stand out: 1. She arranged a meeting with the Digital Marketing Lead at PSA BDP, giving us access to his 20-plus years of experience and helping us pinpoint key gaps in our business. 2. She hired us to create reflection videos for the PSA BDPs mentorship team at AFD. The project boosted our confidence and brought us our largest client to date. PSA BDP could have chosen on-site vendors at AFD, yet Kara chose us. Her intentional support made a tangible difference, and we’re genuinely grateful for that. Individual: Kara has strengthened my confidence, both in our business and in my ability to lead what we hope will become a highly successful African enterprise.

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