Restaurant Founder Mentorship Returns
The Elevate Mentorship Scheme is officially live for the 6th year. Sponsored by OpenTable for the second consecutive year, Elevate has been created to support independent Black and ethnically diverse restaurant founders with the mentorship, knowledge and connections they need to thrive in today’s hospitality landscape.
Designed to tackle the unique challenges faced by independent restaurant founders , the programme pairs founders with experienced hospitality leaders who can provide practical guidance and ongoing support over six months.
Why Elevate Mentorship Matters
Independent restaurant founders are the driving force behind the UK’s hospitality sector. Yet many restaurant founders from Black and ethnically diverse backgrounds continue to face barriers when it comes to accessing networks, mentorship and business support.
Elevate exists to help bridge that gap.
By connecting founders with some of the industry’s most experienced professionals, the programme creates opportunities for learning, collaboration and growth. Whether it’s overcoming operational challenges or planning for long-term success, Elevate gives founders the confidence and support to take the next step in their journey.
Meet the Mentees
This year’s cohort brings together ten restaurant founders from across the UK, each with their own unique story and vision for the future.
- Ryan McVay – Founder, The Calabash Tree
- Maria Bradford – Founder, Shwen Shwen
- Kanthi Thamma -Founder, The Spice Circuit
- Jess & Jo Edun – Founders, The Flygerians
- Khadim Mane – Founder, Little Baobab
- Jusnah Gadi – Co-Founder, Hot and Juicy Shrimp
- Sheresa Pinnock – Founder, Soul Inah Bowl
- Chris Ilankovan – Founder, Mother Canteen
- Karis Theophane – Founder, Jerk Grill
Over the next six months, they’ll work closely with their mentors to develop their businesses and reach their unique business goals.
Meet the Mentors
Guiding this year’s cohort is a group of hospitality leaders who are sharing their expertise and experience.
- Sasha Shaker – Senior Director, OpenTable
- Laure Bornet – SVP International Growth, OpenTable
- Gina Knight – Head of People, Flat Iron
- Maria McCann – Head of Operations, Blacklock
- Hannah Plumb – Talent and Culture Director, The Alchemist
- Kan Koo – Director & Partner, The Cosmo World Kitchen
- Gemma Eley – People & Culture Director, Hawksmoor
- Fernanda Antonio – People & Culture Director, Caravan
- Emma Reynolds – Co-Founder, Tonkotsu
- Zan Kaufman – Founder, Bleecker
Their collective knowledge spans operations, people, culture and growth, providing mentees with invaluable insight from some of the UK’s most respected hospitality businesses.
Looking Ahead
The next six months will be filled with learning and opportunity as this year’s mentees and mentors embark on their Elevate journey together. We look forward to following their progress and celebrating their achievements.
If you would like to find out more about the Elevate Mentorship Scheme, please contact us here.