Event Overview
On Saturday, August 16, 2025, Founders Connect hosted a compelling one-day summit in Toronto, centered around the theme “Black Builders.” The event was tailored for Black and African founders, creators, professionals, and operators, and took place at OneEleven in Downtown Toronto, starting at 2:00 PM.
The event was hosted by Peace Itimi, a dynamic marketing leader, storyteller, and startup advisor whose vision frames Founders Connect’s mission. Among the notable featured speakers were Ugo Iwuchukwu(Head of Marketing & Partnerships at Bamboo), Onyeka Akumah(Founder & CEO of Treepz), Tosin Ajibola(Founder, REENATO), and many more.


Event Highlights

- Keynote Sessions & Live Show
Attendees were treated to live panel conversations, keynote addresses, and a Founders Connect live show, all designed to spark candid dialogue and deliver tactical insights. - Strategic Networking Mixer
The event fostered high-value networking through dedicated mixers, enabling meaningful one-on-one connections and catalyzing collaborative opportunities across the ecosystem. - Perspective-Shifting Conversations
With a focus on “Black Builders,” the event explored stories and strategies for building brands that empower Africa and its diaspora.
Pitch2Win Winner: Nodalli

A standout feature of the summit was the “Launchpad by Founders Connect Pitch2Win”, a live pitch competition offering visibility and a $5,000 non-dilutive prize to participating founders.
The winner was Nodalli, who claimed victory and the prize. Huge congratulations to them for this achievement!
In Summary
Founders Connect Live in Toronto on August 16, 2025, offered an immersive blend of storytelling, strategic insight, and community building. From expert-led sessions to face-to-face networking and a celebrated pitch winner, it reinforced Toronto’s growing role in the global “Black Builders” movement and illuminated pathways for founders pushing the boundaries of impact and innovation.