About ASF

Ascend Studios Foundation (ASF) is a driving force for economic empowerment, offering individuals (especially women and youth) the tools and resources they need to thrive. Through capacity building initiatives, ASF equips participants with the knowledge and skills to navigate the social, educational, and economic landscape. Our reach extends beyond individuals, as ASF also partners with governments, organizations, and companies. By providing expertise in strategic design and program implementation, ASF fosters the creation of supportive ecosystems that contribute to overall economic growth. This inclusive approach ensures that all individuals have the opportunity to achieve their full potential.

Mission:
To empower individuals and communities towards a more just, sustainable, and prosperous future through capacity building, social, educational, and economic development programs. We achieve this by fostering inclusive ecosystems that promote opportunity and self-reliance for all.

Vision:
A world where everyone has the knowledge, skills, and resources to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to their communities. ASF envisions a future where vibrant ecosystems empower individuals, regardless of background, to lead fulfilling and impactful lives.

Our Projects

AWE

AWE is a program supporting the development of women entrepreneurs around the world. AWE’s reach extends across Latin America, the Caribbean, Africa, and other regions where promoting women’s economic empowerment is a principal U.S policy priority

THRIVE

Thrive is a transformative program designed to empower women in African film and television to achieve their full potential. Through intensive training, mentorship by industry leaders, and a focus on building a strong network, Thrive equips participants with the skills and connections necessary to become key players in the global entertainment landscape.

CTP

Creative Technology Program (CTP) is a program supporting the development and retainment of Creative Technology Talents in Nigeria. The program is designed to enable, nurture and upskill creative technology talents in persons into viable career options; and create an ecosystem that will boost economic potential of all participants.

Our Conferences

GTA

The Global Tech Africa (GTA) is a project that brings together all critical stakeholders in Africa’s technology ecosystem to explore opportunities in the Continent’s potential to harness technology for growth and development

ACM

Africa Creative Market is a dynamic event uniting key players in the African and global creative industry to exchange innovative ideas, offer training for African creatives, share future-proof business models, generate job opportunities, provide trade finance access, facilitate creative trade, and promote data-driven insights into creative commerce.

SOT

The Science of Trade Conference (SOT) is designed to empower African entrepreneurs to navigate the complexities of local and international trade and unlock opportunities for growth and success. The conference will provide comprehensive training on export readiness, trade facilitation, digital trade, e- commerce, and the utilization of trade policies.

ASF Partners

Participant Testimonials

Aderonke Adebayo CEO, Reese Fabrics located at Brasar's Mall 69 Admiralty way Lekki Lagos Nigeria.

"The AWE 2022 program delivered an amazing experience. I learned how to write a business plan, book-keeping, advertising, and staff management. In the in-person program, we learned how to network, collaborate and grow a global brand. We met members of the United States Consulate and other AWE partners. The panel session was educational and taught us a lot about giving back to society and how to pitch our brands. I appreciate the US Consulate for this great opportunity given to entrepreneurs. A huge thank you to Dr. Inya Lawal and the Ascend Studios Foundation team.."

Deborah Omotayo Yusuff Founder, Pottersville Schools ( Ajuwon, Oko-Oba, Mowe)

"For the first time since we started, I did a financial representation and analysis of my schools. Academy for Women Entrepreneurs through the Dreambuilder course was a business school for me. It touched every aspect of a business. The facilitators were knowledgeable and thorough. My business found validation. Knowing about SDGs and that our school is fostering SDGs 1,4,5 and 8 is quite fulfilling. I'm grateful to the US consulate and the AWE team."

Olabisi Akinbajo Toke Cosmetics

"My experience at the AWE training was one of a kind. The Dreambuilder course was simple and easy to follow. I learned proper record-keeping and business planning. We had thought-challenging mentors that showed us possibilities in our business. The in-person experience was superb! Key takeaways from the event are promptness in action, human impact, and global positioning. Because of AWE, my business record-keeping process has improved. We also hired a accounting consultant and has changed to a limited liability company. I am grateful to the US Consulate in Nigeria and Ascend Studios Foundation."

Juliet Obumneke Obi Founder, Kidpreneur Africa

"My selection from 16,000 applications for AWE 2022 cohort is the 1st win. The Dreambuilder platform is a Business School made easy. All the facilitators came with their A-game and each session left me better. Thanks to the AWE program, we are now members of the National Association for Kidpreneurs in Washington DC USA. We'll also be the first organization to host International Kidpreneur Day in Africa. Thank you to AWE for fueling my momentum, seeing my worth - and helping me see it. I recommend AWE to women-owned businesses who want to navigate to the top."

Dr. Oluwadamilola Akinyemi CEO of Dr. Dammie’s Lifestyle Store

"The AWE program was a thought-rinsing process for my business and me. It was my first business school experience as an entrepreneur. My financial literacy has increased, and my management skills have evolved. AWE helped me craft a clear vision for my company. Now I have strategies on how to achieve future set objectives. We had the BEST facilitators; every session was explosive! The lead program partner, Dr. Inya Lawal, and her team were great and helpful. The in-person program improved my public speaking and presentation skills. I recommend EVERY woman in business to get on the program."