WomHub, in partnership with the Visa Foundation, has announced the 2025 cohort of its STEM is Everywhere programme, a flagship initiative designed to propel women entrepreneurs at the forefront of science, technology, engineering and mathematics across Africa.
“We’re proud to announce the third cohort of the STEM is Everywhere Programme, supported by Visa Foundation,” said WormHub in a LinkedIn statement.
The three-month programme, now in its third cycle, equips early-stage founders with tools to scale their ventures: targeted mentorship, business development support, access to WomHub’s innovation hubs and a pan-African network of peers and investors. The aim is to strengthen the pipeline of women-led businesses tackling the continent’s most urgent sustainability challenges.
The 2025 Cohort
The new class brings together 35 female founders whose ventures span renewable energy, agritech, health sciences, AI and digital platforms. Among them are Adelia Njabulo Nqubuka, Andisiwe Satshwa, Akhona Mtongana, Bongumusa Sue-Allen Thumbathi, Charmaine Lekhuleni, Emma Nthabiseng Mpyaatona, Evodia Naledi Phahlo, Gloria Boa, Kefentse Maringa, Kelebogile Makahane, Keneilwe Mabika, Melinda M., Lerato Motswe, Priscilla Lerato Morobe (MyCircle – Global), Mapule Madzena, Mosa (Mo) Yende, Nokuthula Mchunu, Nthabiseng Makhoba, Ntombenhle Khathwane, Oratile Moetsi, Oratilwe Mooketsi, Puseletso Motebejane, Rayhaanah Williams, Noluthando Refiloe Mabena, Sibongile V. Mthimunye, Thokgamo M., Tshaamano M., Unathi Pretty Mbengwana, Valerie Pooe, Vinolia Keolopile Tokotshane, Xoliswa Sitengile, Yanga Ngewu, and Zonazodwa Buthelezi.
These entrepreneurs will benefit from mentorship by industry leaders, networking events with investors, ongoing advisory services and discounted access to WomHub’s hubs. Participants also gain entry to WomHub’s capital pathways, a critical lifeline for early-stage ventures.
Building a Supportive Ecosystem
The programme begins in July 2025 with intensive workshops and concludes with a founder showcase where participants pitch to investors, corporate leaders and policy stakeholders.
By addressing the structural barriers faced by women in STEM limited access to funding, networks and tailored support, WomHub and the Visa Foundation seek to unlock untapped potential within Africa’s innovation economy.
With venture funding to women-led startups still accounting for less than 10 per cent of Africa’s total in 2024, initiatives like STEM is Everywhere are increasingly vital. By combining capital, mentorship and visibility, WomHub is nurturing not only individual founders but also the broader ecosystem, inspiring future generations of women to enter entrepreneurship in science and technology.
For the 35 women now beginning their journeys in the 2025 cohort, the programme offers more than resources. It offers a platform one that signals to investors and markets that Africa’s innovation story will not be complete without women at its centre.
