Wilmington, NC, February 11, 2025 — Roshi, the only peer-to-peer training app catering to university students as instructors, today announced its exclusive launch to the Wilmington, North Carolina community, facilitating learning and connection between the local youth and relatable role models.

Founded by two UNCW Cameron School of Business graduates, Roshi seamlessly connects parents and university students through a secure, user-friendly platform that simplifies personalized instruction and scheduling. All instructors are exclusively university students, making them relatable role models for children and young learners. With a wide range of subjects, including academics, sports, music, and languages, this peer-to-peer approach fosters a personal connection that enhances the quality of instruction and engagement.

“Roshi was born from a personal need when I saw firsthand how challenging it was to find flexible work that aligned with my passions while studying at UNCW,” said Nico Mancuso, Co-founder at Roshi. “Our platform makes this possible for university students by simply tapping into their existing expertise. For parents, Roshi takes the guesswork out of vetting high-quality coaches and mentors for their children, who, in turn, are given a more impactful learning experience from relatable role models. It’s that mutually beneficial dynamic that makes Roshi unique.”

Roshi offers the following solutions for students, parents, and universities:

1. Eliminates the complexity of finding high-quality, affordable private instruction by providing a network of verified university students who offer personalized mentorship and can connect easily with peers. 
2. Creates flexible and rewarding work opportunities for students that align with their areas of expertise. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 40 percent of full-time students are also employed.
3. Serves as a powerful tool for universities to foster deeper connections with their local communities. When promoted through the platform, Roshi drives engagement, facilitates targeted communication, attracts local talent, and boosts attendance at collegiate events.

“UNCW has a strong track record of supporting student and alumni-driven initiatives, which makes it the perfect launchpad for Roshi,” commented Austin Bates, Co-Founder at Roshi. “Our app is ready to bridge universities with the community in a way that has never been seen before, promoting tangible connectivity and engagement between the two within a secure and centralized marketplace. 

Roshi has also named its first student ambassador, Mary Ferrito, a guard on the UNC Wilmington Seahawks basketball team. Mary’s natural leadership and passion for athletics made her an obvious choice to be the go-to connection for students looking to get involved with Roshi — whether through sports, education, or mentoring local youth.

“Roshi is one of the more innovative startups I’ve seen emerge in our community,” added Steve Griffin, President at Insurance People and UNCW Board of Trustees member. “Two UNCW alumni solving a problem they experienced when they were students to help future generations is a testament to the positive impact Wilmington made on them. Roshi not only empowers students but supports parents and creates meaningful connections through education, which is something families in the local area can appreciate.”

Roshi utilizes Stripe for secure payment processing and is currently available to download on the App Store. To stay updated on new features and expansions, follow Roshi on Instagram or visit roshico.com.