The beginning of 2020 started with much hope and expectation. At Upside Africa, we were finalising plans for our new skills workshops, and other activities for the year.
Faced with the inevitable reality of a pandemic, the world was thrust into a level of uncertainty not experienced in generations and certainly the first pan-human experience in our history. Added anxiety came in the form of devastating incidents of police brutality and racial inequalities across the world, forcing many institutional and corporate leaders to reflect on their stance on diversity & inclusion (D&I). Throughout all of this, we were forced to address the truths about our flaws, negligence, distorted priorities, but also rediscovered bountiful traits of perseverance, altruism, innovation, and activism!
To ride the turbulent wave, Upside Africa redefined its efforts and built stronger connections with our industry family. Recognising the challenges faced by startups in these times, we stood in solidarity with three African-based founders who formed panelists at Upside Africa´s “Moolah Matters: Financing African SMEs” virtual event. Their tenacity and smarts were contagious as they walked us through their experiences raising funds in the African startup ecosystem, and keeping a business afloat during these discerning times.
We strengthened collaborations with industry players including, Ashoka, Startup without Borders and Casa Africa participating as keynote speakers at webinars. Topics of discussion spanned from leading a community whilst defying gender expectations, through to changing the migrant narrative for the better.
Next year we are going even harder! In 2021, we will provide more resources and introduce programmes to support budding entrepreneurs of afrodescendant heritage. Within the communities that we are located we want to build a support network for afrodescendentes facing grave circumstances by being the beacon of light in the darkness. This is by no means an easy feat, but our mission intends that no one is left behind.
We want you to join us in every way you can. Start off by joining our online community (UpsideAfrica across all social platforms) or tell us relevant news about you or your company’s mission and we will publish it within our community or reach out for prospective collaborations.
Your support energises our cause, especially this year and for this we are extremely thankfully. We take this time to wish you a happy holidays and for good health into the new year.
Warmest regards