FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ashburn, VA / Lynchburg, VA — Sikhona Inc., a global media, communications, and technology company headquartered in Ashburn, Virginia, has donated 10,000 shares of company stock to Virginia University of Lynchburg (VUL), a Historically Black College and University (HBCU). This gift marks the launch of a historic new partnership announced on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, during a meeting on the VUL campus.
The announcement brought together Sikhona Chairman Dr. Michael Thompson, VUL President Dr. Kathy Franklin, and senior executives and administrators from both Sikhona and VUL. The collaboration will allow VUL to participate in Sikhona’s HBCU Matching Shares Program, positioning the university to reap potentially significant long-term financial benefits that can positively impact students for generations.
Sikhona Chairman Dr. Michael Thompson stated:
“This unprecedented gift of 10,000 shares of donated stock to VUL reflects Sikhona’s enduring commitment to support Historically Black Colleges and Universities and to invest in the students and educators who drive innovation and service. We are thrilled to have VUL as the first university to officially become a partner in our HBCU Matching Shares Program.”
VUL President Dr. Kathy Franklin expressed her gratitude:
“On behalf of the students, faculty and staff of VUL, I want to sincerely thank Sikhona Chairman Dr. Michael Thompson for his company’s historic gift of 10,000 shares of stock to VUL. This generous donation will allow VUL to continue to grow and achieve our mission of providing educational opportunities for students from throughout the country, 70% of whom are first-generation college students.”
About Sikhona Inc.
Sikhona Inc., founded by businessman and veteran technology expert Dr. Michael Thompson, is a global media, communications, and technology company with operations in the U.S. and Africa. The company develops software, builds internet infrastructure, and creates informational and entertaining content. Sikhona’s Matching Shares Program donates stock to HBCUs, churches, and nonprofit organizations.
The company operates several new and innovative social media platforms including Sikhona Social, HeyYo, DoYou, and Tribe, with currently nearly 500,000 subscribers across the U.S. and Africa.
Sikhona plans to have an Initial Public Offering (IPO) in the first quarter of 2026 to begin offering the public the opportunity to purchase shares of the company’s stock on a stock exchange. The company has a projected near-term valuation of $2.9 billion.
About Virginia University of Lynchburg (VUL)
Founded in 1886, VUL’s mission is rooted in faith, self-help, and interdependence. The university provides a nurturing environment that equips students for life by maximizing individual gifts and fostering spiritual and intellectual development. Recognized by Forbes Magazine in 2024 for having the #1 ranked online Doctor of Healthcare Administration program in the country, VUL continues to serve as a leader in higher education with a focus on supporting first-generation college students.
Media Contact:
For Additional Information about the Sikhona Matching Shares Program, contact:
Mr. Wiley Day, Sr.
Business Development Manager, Sikhona Inc.
Email: wday@sikhona.net
Phone: 251-888-0009