WHAT IS THE SHIFT APPROACH?
At SHIFT, we believe that change starts with each person. Just like the Bible teaches us that we can’t put new wine into old wine skins, we know that to grow, we need to think differently. Similarly, Confucius, a great teacher, focused on teaching his students how to think before showing them how to do a job.
Discovering Possibilities
The SHIFT Approach aims to help our Enterprisers (the people we support) have "light bulb" moments—those times when they realize that what once seemed impossible is actually possible. We want to inspire them to dream big!
A Focus on Servant Leadership
Our approach is also about being a servant leader. We take inspiration from W.E.B. Du Bois and his idea of the "talented tenth." This means we want to create an exclusive community that teaches those who will teach others. We believe that when leaders learn, they can take their new skills and ideas back to their own communities to make a difference.
Growing Together
As our community grows, SHIFT adapts to continue serving both individuals and organizations in smart and effective ways. We believe that by helping people think critically and communicate well, we can rise above narrow-minded thinking and make a lasting impact.
Creating Lasting Change
Over time, we believe this approach will help improve the chances of upward mobility for many people. By equipping individuals with the right mindset and skills, we can create a ripple effect that leads to stronger communities and better opportunities for everyone. This is the SHIFT Approach—empowering change, one person at a time.
What are the SHIFT Pillars?
The SHIFT pillars are essential components of a holistic model aimed at empowering youth and driving sustainable development in Africa. By addressing mindset change, financial literacy, community collaboration, goal-setting, resilience, and critical thinking, SHIFT provides a comprehensive framework for young entrepreneurs to harness their potential and achieve long-term success.
Save Your Money
Financial literacy, budgeting, and sustainable revenue models.
Empower young entrepreneurs to make informed financial decisions, manage expenses effectively, and reinvest in their ventures. This contributes to increasing youth access to dignified work opportunities.
Help Your Family
Community-driven solutions and collaboration through Mastermind Alliances.
Build strong community ties and collaborative ventures that create intergenerational wealth opportunities, uplifting individuals, families, and communities.
Imagine Your Goals
Visionary leadership and goal-setting.
Ensure young entrepreneurs have clear, actionable roadmaps for their businesses, including 90-day strategic plans and 5-year growth plans. Foster a growth mindset for innovation and adaptability.
Follow Directions
Perseverance, execution, and skills development.
Teach resilience and focus in entrepreneurship, equipping participants with practical skills to manage operations effectively and convert leads into sales.
Think Accurately
Critical thinking and innovation.
Encourage young entrepreneurs to challenge conventional wisdom, assess their environment critically, and think innovatively. Foster a culture of data-driven decision-making and continuous learning.
How does the SHIFT Approach work?
The SHIFT Approach is a lifestyle.
It encompasses several interconnected elements that collectively drive change at multiple levels, ranging from the individual to the community, institution, and system levels. Our programming is held both in person and in the virtual space, synchronous and asynchronous available.
