The Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa) has signalled plans to expand its flagship mentorship programme for young women across Africa, using a high-level engagement in New York to outline its next phase.
The meeting, held on the sidelines of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, brought together mentors from across Africa and the diaspora to define strategies for scaling the initiative’s reach and strengthening its long-term impact. The engagement also served as a policy dialogue, positioning mentorship as a central pillar in advancing women’s development beyond formal education.
ASR Africa’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Ubon Udoh, described the programme as the organisation’s most transformative intervention, stressing its role in preparing young women for real-world career demands. “This mentorship initiative has proven to be a powerful bridge between academic life and professional careers,” he said, noting that participants are gaining clearer direction and confidence through structured guidance.
Udoh also acknowledged the role of mentors, stating that their continued commitment has been critical to the programme’s outcomes. According to him, mentors have helped young women navigate career uncertainties while building both personal and professional capacity.
Guest of honour and Co-Chair of NGO CSW New York, Pamela Morgan, reinforced the global relevance of the initiative. She said mentorship is increasingly recognised by development leaders as a practical tool for women’s empowerment. “Mentorship is not only valuable for mentees, but also for mentors, who gain fresh perspectives from the experiences of the young women they support,” she stated.
The event also featured the recognition of outstanding mentors, with certificates awarded for their contributions to nurturing the next generation of female leaders across the continent.
