Camelback Ventures Welcomes Shawna Young As CEO To Advance Diverse Entrepreneurship

Camelback Ventures has announced Shawna Young’s appointment as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), starting in early April 2024. 

Camelback Ventures

Camelback Ventures is a New Orleans-based nonprofit social venture fellowship that aims to increase access to opportunity for entrepreneurs of color and women.

Founded by Aaron T. Walker in 2015, Camelback Ventures has supported over 133 undervalued entrepreneurs with social impact ventures around the country.

Its business model involves providing its Fellows with the “friends and family” stage of funding. The Fellows then reinvest in Camelback through grants or convertible notes.

Meet Shawna Young

Young, a figure in educational nonprofits, philanthropy, and edtech startups, is celebrated for her dedication to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion. 

Impactful roles at MIT, Duke University, and Ada Developers Academy have marked her professional journey.

As CEO, Young is poised to amplify Camelback Ventures’ mission, emphasizing holistic support, seed funding, mentorship, and community building. 

“I am personally inspired by Camelback’s commitment to identifying and empowering entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds,” said Young.

“What excites me the most about joining the Camelback community is the opportunity to catalyze meaningful change in the entrepreneurial landscape.”

In her new role, Young aims to continue the vision of founder and former CEO Aaron Walker while introducing her perspectives and experiences.

She will also participate in the upcoming Guardian Summit in May, an excellent opportunity for the Camelback community to welcome her.