Perseverance pays off Matina Razafimahefa who is among the top 20 entrepreneurs at ABH 2024. Her project could appear in the top 10 of the competition that will award a prize of 1.5 million USD to the finalists each year.
A good first trip for Madagascar. The country is represented in the top 20 of the ABH (African Business Hero) competition. Now, Matina Razafimahefa’s name is synonymous with success and perseverance in the African entrepreneurial landscape. The founder of SAYNA took a big step forward this year by reaching the top 20 of the prestigious competition. Having previously been ranked among the top 50 in the magazine, Matina was able to improve her performance, this time standing out among 20,000 applicants from 54 African countries.
Honor. Initiated by the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Philanthropy, the African Business Heroes initiative aims to identify and support entrepreneurial talents on the African continent. Since its launch in 2019, the competition has distributed USD 1.5 million to the 10 best projects each year. More than just a competition, the ABH provides a platform for entrepreneurs to develop their skills through training, mentoring and networking opportunities, while connecting them to a global entrepreneurial community. This year, Madagascar shines through the success of Matina Razafimahefa, marking the country’s first appearance in the top 20 of this prestigious competition. His presence among the semi-finalists highlights the strength and resilience of the Malagasy entrepreneurial spirit, and shows that talent and innovation know no bounds.
Go to Cairo. This year’s edition also marked a move towards greater inclusion. “Over the past five years, the ABH competition has seen increased participation from critical demographics, demonstrating our commitment to inclusivity.”said Zahra Baitie-Boateng, executive director of the ABH Initiative for Africa. The number of female candidates reached 39%, compared to an average of 30% over the past five years, while North African representation also increased, from 5% to 9%. The 20 semi-finalists, 8 of whom are women, will travel to Cairo for the semi-final soon. Among them, only the top 10 will advance to the grand finale, scheduled for December in Kigali, Rwanda. Finalists will benefit from privileged access to ABH’s virtual network, an opportunity to participate in workshops led by thought leaders and influential members of the global entrepreneurial ecosystem. In addition, substantial media exposure will strengthen their visibility, through press releases, articles and interviews.
Promotion. Matina Razafimahefa embodies the spirit of innovation and determination. His progress in the African Business Hero competition inspires not only the Malagasy entrepreneurial community, but also all young Africans who want to make a difference. As the competition tightens and the finalists prepare to face home, Matina continues to show that perseverance and hard work are the keys to success. On her way to Kigali, Matina Razafimahefa carries the hopes and aspirations of an entire continent with her, proving once again that the African dream is alive and well.
Ansa R.
