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As NYPACE is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit NYC, your generous contribution is tax deductible.
NYPACE is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that stimulates job creation and economic opportunity in underserved communities by mobilizing pro bono professionals to support local entrepreneurs through an extensive network of volunteer advisors from many of the nation’s leading professional firms. NYPACE supports underserved entrepreneurs with pro bono services that would otherwise be unaffordable, while providing volunteers with a structured, curated channel for giving back. NYPACE is funded solely through grants and generous donors. For more information to become a volunteer or to make a contribution, please visit www.nypace.org, email info@nypace.org or visit NYPACE on LinkedIn
NYPACE Welcomes New Board Members from Corporate Powerhouses to Strengthen Economic Opportunity for NYC Entrepreneurs
New York City nonprofit NYPACE announces the appointment of three new Board of Directors and two new Associate Board Members, strengthening its leadership at a time when many under-resourced entrepreneurs continue to face barriers to capital, guidance, and growth. NYPACE’s impact is fueled by volunteers, from its Board of Directors to its network of pro bono advisors, who collectively contribute their experience, ideas, networks, and thousands of hours each year.
The newly appointed Board Directors bring a wide range of strategic experience across social impact, finance, and private equity. Kenrick Fraser, a Social Impact and Employee Engagement Executive and PayPal alum, joins the Board with a proven track record of advancing purpose-driven initiatives within corporate social responsibility and employee engagement. Also joining is Talaal Azeem, Principal at Apollo Global Management, Inc., whose investment expertise and operational leadership will help drive long-term sustainability for NYPACE’s programs. Rounding out the group is Thomas Donley, Vice President at AEA Investors, who brings valuable insight into scaling businesses and supporting growing enterprises; experience that closely aligns with the needs of NYPACE’s entrepreneur community.
“Joining the NYPACE board is a meaningful opportunity to help expand access for entrepreneurs who have historically been overlooked. My work has focused on expanding economic opportunity, elevating volunteer engagement, and advancing social impact, and that perspective shapes how I show up for founders,” said Kenrick Fraser. “I’ve seen firsthand how skilled volunteer advisors can transform a business owner’s confidence and open new pathways for growth. I’m honored to support NYPACE at a leadership level and help more entrepreneurs access guidance that drives growth.”
“This is a pivotal growth phase for NYPACE,” said Talaal Azeem. “As the organization grows, so does its ability to uplift the next generation of diverse business owners. I’m thrilled to contribute strategic leadership to deepen NYPACE’s reach and scale impact citywide.”
“At a time when small businesses are the backbone of our city’s economic resilience, NYPACE’s work is essential,” said Thomas Donley. “I’m honored to bring my experience working with small businesses to an organization that is committed to building an entrepreneurial ecosystem that expands opportunity and supports underserved communities.”
The Associate Board continues to expand its leadership pipeline with the addition of two rising professionals. Sam Foley, Chief of Staff at SiteRx, brings operational insight and a deep understanding of organizational growth. George Heathcote, a Strategy Consultant at Accenture with an analytical approach and experience in strategic planning, will further support NYPACE’s efforts to enhance systems and increase program impact.
“The addition of our new executive and associate board members reinforces our belief that when industry leaders lean into service – communities thrive,” said Ibrahima Souare, Executive Director of NYPACE. “Their leadership strengthens our ability to support entrepreneurs and embody our mantra to empower entrepreneurs and transform underserved communities. I am excited to partner with each of them during this exciting growth phase for NYPACE.”
Ongoing participation from the new leaders ensures that the organization’s services remain accessible and free of charge. Their dedication directly impacts program delivery, fundraising, and long-term sustainability.
In honor of International Volunteer Day on December 5th and the spirit of the giving season, NYPACE encourages NYC professionals to make a difference by becoming volunteer advisors offering direct, hands-on guidance to entrepreneurs aiming to scale their businesses. NYPACE is currently seeking professionals with expertise in key areas such as marketing, finance, technology, and operations. By sharing their skills, professionals collectively contribute to fostering a more robust and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem throughout New York City.
To learn more about NYPACE and explore volunteer opportunities, please visit www.nypace.org/volunteer-advisors.
For media inquiries, please contact Tiffany Joy Murchison at pr@tjmandco.com or 646-874-9535. You can find headshot photos of the new board members here.