This story is part of a series featuring each of the fourteen startups in the CYstarters 2021 summer cohort. Each team has the opportunity to focus on their startup or business idea while receiving $6,500 or up to $13,000, along with mentorship, accountability, and educational sessions on how to build a business.

By Samantha Dilocker, ISU Pappajohn Center for Entrepreneurship

Recent Iowa State University graduate Mason Weh is a social entrepreneur fighting for a change that starts from within. His mission is to build, educate, and inspire the next generation of youth to be the change they hope to see in the world. He works with industry and community leaders to provide young adults a chance to use their talents to create opportunities. 

Get to know: Mason Weh

Age: 23

Education: Bachelors of Liberal Arts and Sciences and a minor in general business at Iowa State University

Passionate about: Growth

Most recently I: Graduated from Iowa State University

Currently working on: Mentoring For Change

When did you start working on Mentoring For Change?

Last summer!

Have you always seen yourself starting something?

Yes! Growing up in Liberia when I was a child, my mom and I would sell water to avoid living life in margin. That’s when I was introduced to entrepreneurship.

Why mentoring?

It’s my story. I know that it’s going to change the world and have a huge impact on people’s lives. It’s a great way to influence growth.

How have you grown since you started?

Personally, I’ve been able to reflect on things to help myself through many roadblocks physically, mentally and emotionally. I’ve been able to use these experiences to help others.

What future milestones would you like to hit?

I’m hitting it now; I’d like to be a small business owner and entrepreneur. I want to give others a chance to create opportunities for themselves.

What is the biggest challenge you face each day?

Waking up and constantly battling uncertainty. I’m not 100% sure that this will work out. I’m not 100% certain that my next plan will work out, but I’m just doing it.

How has entrepreneurship at Iowa State impacted you?

Entrepreneurship at Iowa State has helped me to be a better individual. It’s made me a better leader, especially being a team leader in the track and field program. Many of my teammates look to me for advice and help to persevere.

What advice would you give to a smart, driven college student?

My slogan is “Be the change.” If you have something, an idea or a dream, go out and do it.

Where are you headed? And how would you invite others to join you?

I am headed on a journey towards changing lives. It starts with Mentoring for Change. I would invite others to join me by following us on LinkedIn or visiting our website or social media to keep updated on what we’re doing.

Connect with Mentoring for Change on LinkedIn or follow on Instagram!