About Us
We Bring Ideas To Life
Nobellum is a female-led social and technology enterprise dedicated to empowering the Black business ecosystem. With a mission to support Black innovators in launching and scaling sustainable ventures, Nobellum is committed to inspiring change and driving economic impact through entrepreneurship. By 2025, our mandate is to launch at least 100 Black-owned businesses in STEM.
Our Leadership Team brings a wealth of expertise across business, technology, finance, and community engagement. Awarded the BMO Black Tech Community Builder of the Year, Nobellum thrives on a foundation of trust, authenticity, and deep-rooted community connections. Together, our leaders drive our mission forward with strategic foresight, operational excellence, and a shared commitment to sustainable, inclusive growth.
Startups have been accelerated
100+
5,000+
Innovators supported through Initiatives, coaching and mentorship
150,000+
Funding Distributed through award prizes and grants
Made Possible by sponsorship and donations from our partners and sponsors:
Our Mandate
We are on a mission to support 100 Black-owned businesses in STEM before 2025.
As the year closes in we are launching a bold new mandate, to accelerate 1000 Black-owned Businesses by 2030
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Become a Member
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Volunteer at Our Events
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Become a Partner
Partnered Initiatives
BDC Fundamentals
The Business Fundamentals Virtual Cohort is a collaborative initiative between BDC and Nobellum, designed to support Black entrepreneurs in their growth journey by providing structured e-learning programs, personalized coaching, and community-driven support. This program addresses critical challenges faced by Black entrepreneurs, including limited access to business knowledge, resources, and networks, by leveraging Nobellum’s expertise and BDC’s infrastructure to deliver impactful outcomes.
Black Innovation Zone
Hey Innovators! Ever been to events and felt like something was missing—a hot spot for Black entrepreneurs and professionals? Well, we've got you covered!
In partnership with leading organizations, we’ve created the Black Innovation Zone (BIZ)—a safe, vibrant space where Black innovators can connect, collaborate, and thrive together.
If this sounds like your kind of vibe, register for our BIZ Calendar and never miss out on a Black-led opportunity again! Let’s build, grow, and innovate—together! 🙌
Meet the Leaders
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Melisa Ellis
FOUNDER & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
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Malcolm Wright
CO-FOUNDER & CHIEF PARTNERSHIPS OFFICER
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Kathryn Lawrence
CO-FOUNDER & CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER
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Abdul-Aziz Garuba
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
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Calvin Pascall
CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER
Meet the Team
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Rodas Sbhatleab
PROGRAM MANAGER
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Charles Nwankwo
MARKETING & PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR
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Debora Njilayi
MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR
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Gavin Bennett
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
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Ashleigh Drummond
HUMAN RESOURCES
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Renée Excellent
PAYROLL OFFICER
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Nonso Nwawolo
DONATIONS MANAGER
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Nik-Keisha Moodie
STARTUP SUCCESS COACH
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Praise Adesokan
DIGITAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
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Toni Agbaje-Ojo
STARTUP SUCCESS COORDINATOR
Senior Program Advisors
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Mike Orr
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Dr. Georgette Zinaty
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Taiwo Oyewole
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Lianne Hannaway
Volunteer With Us
We are continually seeking enthusiastic students and community members to volunteer with us! Get involved and be a part of the positive change in our community!
