Letter from our Founder
Dear Friends, Partners, and Colleagues,
As the sun rises on a new year, I am filled with gratitude and excitement for all that lies ahead. At Newwave Foundation, every new beginning represents an opportunity to reimagine possibilities, strengthen our resolve, and reaffirm our commitment to empowering lives through education, entrepreneurship, and community engagement. Together, we are stepping boldly into 2025, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that await us with hope, determination, and purpose.
In a world that continues to face economic and societal challenges, we remain steadfast in our belief in the transformative potential of education. Education not only breaks down barriers but builds bridges to opportunity and success, shaping the future for individuals, families, and entire communities. Our mission is driven by the belief that knowledge has the power to reshape lives and create ripple effects of impact that last for generations.
Last year, 2024, was a testament to resilience, impact, and hope. We proudly supported 11 deserving students with scholarships, enabling them to pursue their college dreams. These young trailblazers, many of whom are the first in their families to attend college, are setting new trajectories for their futures and inspiring change in their communities. In 2025, we are committed to deepening this impact, continuing to provide scholarships that empower first-generation students to break barriers and reimagine what’s possible.
Beyond scholarships, we have embraced the diverse and evolving needs of our community, recognizing that success takes many forms. In 2024, a year of exciting firsts, we expanded our impact by hosting key events live and in person for the first time. Our fourth annual Money Talks panel, held at Morgan State University in collaboration with Venture4Them, delivered timely financial literacy insights to HBCU attendees. While our annual Pitch Perfect competition, hosted at the University of Maryland with VC Day DMV, awarded over $7,500 in cash prizes to innovative diverse founders. During Mental Health Awareness Month, we launched our first Mindful Exchange and #RealTalkTuesday on Instagram, creating safe spaces for students to engage in transformative conversations.
As we look ahead to 2025, we remain inspired by the incredible momentum we’ve built together. This year, our mission is clear: to expand our reach, deepen our impact, and continue providing opportunities that inspire resilience, spark innovation, and build brighter futures. From scholarships to financial literacy workshops to entrepreneurial events, we are more determined than ever to transform knowledge into lasting change.
Thank you for your unwavering support, partnership, and belief in the work we do. Together, we are creating a legacy of empowerment, education, and opportunity. I am excited about what lies ahead and look forward to continuing this journey with you.
With hope, gratitude, and anticipation,
Sherifah Munis
Founder, NewWave Foundation
Instill the Dream