The Millie Education Fund Invests in Women’s Professional Journeys
The Toronto-based sponsorship program provides tools and resources for women with aspirations to transform themselves and their communities.
Photo by Ryan Emberley
Created by a clear vision to empower women across different industries, The Millie Education Fund is a grant that provides financial support to women through conferences, summits, or continuing education. Available to all women, the fund is a branch of Toronto-based Millie, a women-led lifestyle brand launched in 2018 to provide access to education, donate to charities for women, and share stories from diverse communities.
Photo by Ryan Emberley
The Millie Education Fund sponsorship supports dynamic women who will reshape their lives and communities, providing them with meaningful connections and mentorship opportunities. Although one woman receives the grant on a quarterly basis, runners-up are matched with mentors and encouraged to reapply.
Shirley Kandabu, director of Anza Grow Academy, a program that helps entrepreneur’s business ideas come to fruition, is the latest recipient of the Millie Education Fund grant. She wears many hats, overseeing daily operations, helping to develp curriculms, and coaching sessions to entrepreneurs over 40. Kandabu, who is based in Uganda, will take her entrepreneurial and consultation expertise to attend the Oxford Social Finance Programme thanks to the award.
Shirley Kandabu
“Many times, substantial dreams lack sufficient support. Whether it’s a journey from Kenya to Oxford like Shirley or attending a program in New York, the financial and physical gaps can be substantial. We aim to bridge these gaps by providing not only financial assistance but also meaningful guidance,” says Millie founder and CEO Chelsea Brown.
Brown attributes her success to a network of women who connected her with resources, opportunities, and advice. “We recognize the ripple effect of knowledge gained through educational opportunities and are excited to be part of our education fund ambassadors’ continued achievements and breakthroughs,” she says.
Applications for the fall 2024 award are open until June 28.
