Meet the 2023 Social Entrepreneur Cohort

The National Benevolent Association is proud to announce the 2023 Social Entrepreneurship Cohort. Launched in 2021, the SENT cohort is part of NBA’s Social Entrepreneurship Program led by Rev. Darnell Fennell and Rev. Ashley Mayham.

This year’s Cohort is comprised of 11 members whose social enterprises touch on a range of topics, including The Trac, which provides access to professional opportunities for adolescent men; Come As You Are Collective which creates space for queer and BIPOC individuals to receive mental health care; and Glam Academy, which supports women looking to heal from past trauma.

The Cohort will have four huddles each year, two in-person and two virtual. These multi-day sessions allow members to create deep connections with one another. Additionally, members will work closely with the Social Entrepreneurship team and other subject matter experts to gain new skills and complete key tasks such as applying for a 501(c)3, designing a logo, and working on their elevator pitch. Knowing that entrepreneurship can be an isolating journey, Rev. Fennell and Rev. Mayham have created a space over the last few years that gives entrepreneurs a space to share wins, challenges, goals, and updates.

“We are excited to be launching our third SENT cohort,” says Rev. Fennell. “Walking alongside so many talented entrepreneurs who are committed to challenging the status quo and have a passion for social service has been a blessing.”

Get to know the Cohort, by watching their pitches below!