Westminster Enterprise Network (WeNetwork) has announced the launch of the third cohort of alumni for its Elevate programme, an innovative business support initiative, which will officially start on 13 January 2025 with a networking reception.
The Elevate programme is designed to empower Westminster graduates who are founders of businesses registered and operating in the UK. The six-month programme provides tailored guidance and strategic resources to help boost their businesses, with a strong focus on revenue generation and improving efficiency.
Key components of the programme include personalised strategic planning with a dedicated Programme Advisor, accountability support, access to subject-matter experts, peer coaching, hybrid workshops and industry-relevant mentoring. A key highlight of the Elevate programme is the provision of up to £10,000 in equity-free funding, enabling founders to invest in areas of their businesses that drive sustainable growth.
The 2025 cohort represents a diverse group of ambitious entrepreneurs from a range of industries, from fashion and beauty to technology and marketing. This year’s cohort includes: Bervera by Arjun Talwar, a clean-tasting coconut water brand inspired by a family business in India; By Bdsha by Mahfuza Begum, a modest fashion brand empowering Muslim women; Sixth Gear by Jordan Samuels, an activewear company designed to help individuals unlock their true potential; Tru Skn by Elizabeth Ola, a beauty brand promoting diversity and inclusion in cosmetics with sustainable products; Fastech Solutions by Riccardo Facciolongo, a digital solutions company specialising in CGI, app development and web design; Digital Sphere by Margareta Digore, a creative agency crafting visual identities for Gen Z and millennials; and JuntosApp by Luis Andres Garcia Bustamente, a marketplace connecting the UK’s Hispanic community, with a focus on supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses.
The Elevate programme offers an environment of collaboration, learning and growth, reflecting WeNetwork’s commitment to empowering alumni founders to build sustainable and impactful businesses.
Clelia Bevillard, Senior Student Enterprise Manager of WeNetwork, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome our third cohort of Westminster alumni to the Elevate business support programme. This cohort showcases a diverse range of businesses across sectors like fashion, tech, food and beauty. At WeNetwork, we are passionate about supporting founders at various stages of their entrepreneurial journeys—whether they’re scaling a family legacy business, launching a sustainable brand or creating new digital solutions. Our focus is on fostering long-term, sustainable growth, and we are excited to see what this group will achieve over the next six months.”
The Elevate programme directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Find out more about the Elevate business support programme at the University of Westminster.
