our founder

About Our Founder

 Chanel Powers is a champion for first‑generation tech talent. As a former Apple Software Engineer, she founded Mentor Me Collective—and has since helped 500+ people land high‑earning tech roles. She’s built a legacy—growing a 30,000‑member global community and inspiring the next generation of tech leaders.

What’s Collective Tech Academy?

From scientist and mathematician to machine learning engineer, Chanel turned her passion into purpose—empowering first‑gen technologists worldwide.

Meet Chanel, the brilliant mind behind Mentor Me Collective, whose journey from Chemist and Mathematician to Machine Learning Engineer ignited a passion for enhancing user experiences. Driven by a mission to empower first-generation technologists, she built a thriving global community that transforms lives and careers in tech.

Who?

Mentor Me Collective: Tech Academy Initiative is an after-school program hosted by Mentor Me Collective, designed to empower senior high school students at Eagle Academy in NYC with exposure to STEM careers and Software Engineering through Robotics.
  • Guidance on integrating sustainability into your business model

  • Strategies to meet and exceed SDG targets

  • Access to resources and networks focused on sustainable development

How?

Through mentorship, innovative coding sessions, and industry office visits, students gain practical skills and insights to navigate and excel in the rapidly evolving tech landscape post-graduation.
  • A Leader in Tech Empowerment

    Chanel stands is a pivotal leader in the tech community, having guided hundreds of first-generation individuals into thriving tech careers.

  • Public Speaking and Advocacy

    Through her powerful voice, Chanel actively works to expand awareness of the incredible career paths available in tech.

  • Global Impact

    What started as an idea has blossomed into a thriving community, now serving a global audience of over 40,000 members. This widespread engagement truly underscores Chanel's vision for accessible tech mentorship worldwide.

Chanel Powers speaking at Apple

Why?

Mentor Me Collective: Tech Academy Initiative aims to bridge the opportunity gap by offering students at Eagle Academy a transformative educational experience. Through this program, we envision our students being inspired and prepared to pursue a brighter future as first-generation technologists.
  • Guidance on integrating sustainability into your business model

  • Strategies to meet and exceed SDG targets

  • Access to resources and networks focused on sustainable development

Stay In Touch!

Interested in joining an event or having Chanel speak?
Get in touch!