As part of the Women in Tech (“WiT”) program, Skin Releaf created an online platform to help people of colour improve skin health through access to dermatologists and skin experts. This solution became the winner by judges from both financial and professional services industries. 

Skin Releaf, winner of 2021 Standard Chartered Women in Tech Incubator Competition, Photo Credits: Business Wire

Steven Cranwell, CEO of Standard Chartered Americas noted:

“Congratulations to the Skin Releaf team and everyone involved. We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to celebrate the energy, creativity and effort of the many participants and volunteers throughout the program. We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to realize their potential. And by providing support, mentorship opportunities and training with the Zahn Innovation Center, we hope to inspire and enable future generations of women-led businesses in New York.”

This year marks the seventh anniversary of the Bank’s partnership with the Zahn Innovation Center (“Zahn Center”) at The City College of New York. Since its launch, which initially had 17% female participants, the program reached gender parity in its third year. To date, over 1,000 students have benefitted from the program. Kesia Hudson, Interim Director, Zahn Innovation Center at The City College of New York also commented:

“We are so impressed by what the competitors were able to accomplish over the course of this program, particularly as most never had a chance to meet in person. Skin Relief has identified a niche within the health and beauty industry. Providing access to reliable information and dermatological care will benefit so many people of colour struggling with melanated skin issues. We are so excited for their product launches.”

The incubator is part of the Bank’s Futuremakers initiative, a global effort where the Bank uses its expertise, staff volunteering and local partners to help young people access jobs and economic opportunities.