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Last week, we had the pleasure of kicking off Cohort 2 of the Ascend Programme at x+why Fivefields in London! We gathered with our new cohort of female and non-binary founders, alongside our partners at Foundervine and OneTech. It was fantastic to see Cohort 2 getting to know each other during the networking sessions, sharing both the successes and challenges of their startup journeys. The diversity of sectors represented by these founders was truly impressive, and it was exciting to hear their unique stories. Jamal Hadjkura, Jonny Clark and Gracie Jones set the stage with inspiring words about what Ascend is all about. Hearing Jamal talk about helping underrepresented founders “get in the room and meet the right people” was a reminder of why this work is so important. This was echoed in Jonny’s message about ensuring “everyone has a fair go at the startup game” and really drove home the core purpose of this programme. We also had the pleasure of hearing from Rishi Chowdhury, Ascend alum and Incube Space co-founder, who shared how the programme helped him prepare for a seed round and make crucial connections. His story of manufactured serendipity is exactly what Ascend is designed to create—opportunities for founders to be in the right place at the right time with the right people. We’re really looking forward to seeing how Cohort 2 progresses through the programme and getting to know each of these innovative founders and startups better. If the launch event is any indication, this cohort is more than ready to take their businesses to the next level and meet their fundraising goals. Thank you to everyone who helped make this event a success! Stay tuned for more updates on the incredible work happening in the Ascend Programme. #Startups #FemaleFounders #NonBinaryFounders #Innovation #Founders #Networking #AscendProgramme #CapitalEnterprise
