Building a Greener Future between Boston, MA, USA and Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire: A New Generation of African Innovators
Two young, gifted, female legal professionals are proving that innovation, sustainability, and community development can grow from a foundation of education, family, and purpose.
At just 25 years-old, cousins and co-founders Antoinette and Samira are launching an eco-friendly manufacturing company in Côte d’Ivoire that will produce biodegradable cassava-based grocery bags — creating a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic while investing in local talent and economic opportunity.
Their story is one of legacy and determination. Born in the United States and raised with a deep connection to her Ivorian roots, Antoinette represents a third generation of law graduates in her family. After earning her law degree, she chose entrepreneurship as a way to combine her passion for sustainability, African development, and practical solutions to global challenges.
Her co-founder and first cousin, Samira, is also a lawyer trained under the French legal education system. As a second-generation university graduate in her family, she brings legal expertise, strategic thinking, and a commitment to building opportunities for the next generation.
Together, they are creating more than a factory — they are building a platform for innovation and employment.
Their cassava-based bag production facility in Côte d’Ivoire will help address the growing need for environmentally responsible packaging solutions while creating skilled jobs within the community. The company’s vision includes internship opportunities for university students, workforce development, and pathways for women pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, manufacturing, and entrepreneurship.
This venture is rooted in a belief that Africa’s future will be shaped by African innovators — educated, globally connected, and committed to creating solutions that serve their communities.
To bring this vision to life, we have already partnered with a world-class material science professor at Institute National Polytechnique Félix Houphouët-Boigny (INP-HB) in Yamoussoukro to engineer our exact proprietary formula. Our business infrastructure is ready, but breakthroughs require rigorous science. We are currently raising $297,000 to fully fund the budget for our initial Research and Development phase, ensuring our biodegradable bags meet strict global strength and environmental standards.
Every single dollar—whether it’s $50, $500, $5000 or more—directly funds the lab testing, raw material engineering, and scientific validation required to disrupt a multi-billion-dollar market. Your support helps us empower local women, bring high-skilled green industry jobs to Abidjan, and prove that sustainable commerce is the most lucrative path forward.
By supporting the Research and Development phase, you are helping launch a business that promotes sustainability, economic empowerment, and a new model of African entrepreneurship: one built not on charity, but on talent, investment, and opportunity.
Join us in building a cleaner future, creating jobs, and supporting the next generation of African women leaders in STEM and manufacturing.
