Name: Faten Aissi
Name of Hub: Flat6Labs
Hub Location: Tunis, Tunisia
Email Address: faten@flat6labs.com
Phone Number: +21658577587
Why are you interested in being on the Board: I’m interested in being on the Board of AfriLabs because I am passionate about fostering innovation and entrepreneurship across Africa. I believe that supporting and connecting innovation hubs, accelerators, incubators, investors and entrepreneurs is crucial for driving economic growth and creating opportunities across the continent. My experience through the past 16 years has shown me the transformative power of collaborative networks, and I am eager to contribute my skills and insights to help AfriLabs continue to grow and make a significant impact.
Finally, being part of the AfriLabs board aligns with my commitment to leveraging technology and innovation for social and economic development, and I am excited about the opportunity to support and guide this important work.
Current Organizational Affiliations: I am currently a mentor with the Women Arab Innovators program, a program supported by UNDP to advocate for diversity and build the capacity of women from all across the MENA region.
I am also a mentor with OST where I am mentoring African entrepreneurs from all walks of life advance to and grow their businesses.
Finally, I am an IVLP Alumna, a network of leaders from across the world supported by the US Department of State.
Prior/Current Leadership Experiences: While I have not previously served on a board, I have held several leadership positions that have prepared me for board service. For example, in my role as Associate Director at Flat6Labs, I have been responsible for strategic planning, managing teams, overseeing projects, and piloting the African expansion of our programs. This has equipped me with strong skills in stakeholder engagement and decision-making.
Additionally, I have been actively involved in the Investment and selection committees of our portfolio startups and these experiences have provided me with a solid understanding of organizational dynamics and strategic thinking, which I believe are crucial for effective board leadership.
I am eager to bring my skills and insights to the Board of AfriLabs and to learn from the experienced board members as we work together to support innovation and entrepreneurship across Africa.
What to Offer: In my role overseeing our programs, I have cultivated strong, trusting relationships with many donors active across the continent. This has enabled me to effectively secure funding and support for various initiatives. Additionally, I have built an extensive network of experts and investors who are keen to support the AfriLabs community by providing access to funding opportunities. This network includes individuals and organizations committed to advancing innovation and entrepreneurship in Africa, and I am eager to leverage these connections to benefit AfriLabs and its members. These relationships and networks not only enhance our ability to secure financial resources but also contribute to the strategic growth and sustainability of AfriLabs’ initiatives.
Motivation: As an individual, I am motivated by a deep passion for creating positive change and making a meaningful impact in the communities I serve. I am inspired by the vision of a better future, where innovation and entrepreneurship drive economic growth and improve lives. This sense of purpose fuels my motivation, alongside a strong desire for continuous learning and growth. I constantly seek new knowledge, skills, and experiences to enhance my ability to make a difference. Collaboration and community energize me, as I thrive in environments where diverse perspectives come together to solve complex problems. Empowering others through mentorship, support, and providing resources is incredibly rewarding, and I am driven by the opportunity to see others succeed. Innovation and creativity excite me, and I am motivated by the challenge of finding innovative solutions to problems. Ultimately, the desire to make a tangible difference, whether through small everyday actions or larger strategic initiatives, is what drives me the most. These motivations align with the mission of AfriLab
Fundraising Experience: I have substantial experience in fundraising, Which includes both securing funding and developing comprehensive fundraising strategies. In my role at Flat6Labs, I have successfully led initiatives to raise capital for various projects and programs. This has involved writing grant proposals, building relationships with donors, and managing fundraising campaigns.
Beyond direct fundraising, I have experience in strategic planning for long-term financial sustainability. I have worked with teams to identify and cultivate new funding sources, develop donor engagement plans, and create compelling cases for support that resonate with diverse audiences. My efforts have not only brought in financial resources but have also strengthened our network of supporters and enhanced our organization’s visibility and credibility.
Through these experiences, I have developed a keen understanding of what it takes to secure and manage funding.
Takeaways during/from the Role:
Fun Fact: I never finish a movie, I always fall asleep in the first 15 mn.
Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fatenaissi/
Any other information:
Name: Tochukwu Chukwueke
Name of Hub: Clintonel Innovation Centre
Hub Location: Aba, Nigeria
Email Address: tochukwu@clintonel.org
Phone Number: +2348068902331
Why are you interested in being on the Board: I’m very passionate about technological, industrial, and economic development in Africa.
This passion has led me to found different organizations and pioneer different programs toward achieving development in Africa. I’ve played and I’m currently playing different leadership and board roles in different organizations in Africa, helping to develop Africa.
As a development expert, consultant, and change agent, I want to support AfriLabs’ board to accelerate development in Africa leveraging my skills, experiences, connections, technology, and the innovation ecosystems across Africa.
Current Organizational Affiliations:
Prior/Current Leadership Experiences:
What to Offer: I’m an inventor with three Patents, a Change Agent, an Engineering Expert, a Development Consultant, and a Community Builder. As a trailblazer, I’ve been pioneering engineering and hardware development and ecosystem building in Nigeria and Africa.
I founded Nigeria’s first Makerspace (hardware-focused tech hub) called Clintonel Innovation Centre (CIC) where we work to improve STEM and Engineering Education in Africa. CIC is the organizer of the popular Nigerian Genius – the two-week national engineering competition that brings together Nigeria’s brightest minds to solve Nigeria’s toughest engineering and manufacturing challenges. CIC also incubates and supports African hardware startups. One of the startups incubated by CIC, Advanced Engineering Centre, was awarded The Prestigious National Merit Award of Excellence as the Most Outstanding MSME in Nigeria 2022 by the Nigerian Vice President, for excellence in Digital Manufacturing.
I’ve been playing a very significant role in developing the hardware ecosystem in Nigeria and Africa. I was very instrumental in the founding of the Hardware Nigeria Community (HNC) – the national network of Nigerian maker spaces, hardware startups, inventors, makers, hardware developers, entrepreneurs, and investors. I’m also a founding member of the Africa Makerspace Network (AMN).
I sit on different boards and play serious leadership roles in important organizations and committees including Abia Technology and Innovation Network (ATIN), the Federal University of Technology Minna Industrial Board, Aba Chamber of Commerce, Abia State Government’s Ministry of Digital Economy and SME Development, Bridge4Scale Digital Innovation Hub, Africa Makerspace Network, Hardware Nigeria Community, etc.
I’m willing to leverage on all these experiences, skills, connections, and resources to support the growth of AfriLabs and scale their developmental impact across Africa.
Motivation: I’m driven by a very strong passion and sense of purpose. As a very compassionate person, I’m deeply hurt by the poverty and suffering in Africa and have made it my life’s mission to alleviate them and accelerate development in Africa. The combination of my compassion for the poor and my engineering expertise forms the basis for my organization’s mission to develop Africa through engineering, innovation, and manufacturing.
Fundraising Experience: I’ve helped raise funds from different organizations including ACT Foundation, PIND Foundation, FCDO (UKaid), Royal Academy of Engineering, Autodesk, etc.
Takeaways during/from the Role: I would like to build and extend my network across multiple African nations, sharpen my fundraising skills, and gain more experience in accelerating development in Africa.
Fun Fact: Well, I’m a Thinker. Yes, I do, and I enjoy a lot of critical and deep thinking centered around problem-solving and development in Africa. I also enjoy Action Thriller movies like Mission Impossible.
Social Media:
Any other information:
Name: Ichraf Jarray
Name of Hub: Hive12
Hub Location: Sousse, Tunisia
Email Address: jarray.echraf@gmail.com
Phone Number: +21650270000
Why are you interested in being on the Board: My deep-rooted passion for advancing the entrepreneurial ecosystem across Africa drives my interest in joining the AfriLabs Board.
Having been part of this unique community since April 2023 (access to valuable reports, active communication on social media, sharing regular opportunities, regular follow-up, etc.), I’ve witnessed firsthand the organization’s profound impact on nurturing technological hubs and empowering innovators, which is pivotal for accelerating Africa’s digital economy (for example, during my participation in GITEX Maroc, where I had the opportunity to meet the Afrilabs team and connect with other hubs).
With my extensive global network of over 300 entrepreneurs, investors, and mentors, I bring valuable experience and insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by innovation hubs.
My entrepreneurial background, coupled with a strategic and solution-oriented mindset, equips me to contribute effectively to AfriLabs’ strategic direction. I am committed to fortifying and expanding AfriLabs’ influence, ensuring it remains a catalyst for equitable and sustainable development continent-wide.
Current Organizational Affiliations:
Prior/Current Leadership Experiences:
What to Offer: I’m willing and able to bring a wealth of skills, connections, experiences, resources, and expertise to AfriLabs. As a strategic visionary, I excel at identifying opportunities and turning them into actionable plans. With my +10,000 influencer networks (LinkedIn and Facebook), I am adept at mobilizing communities around causes and facilitating processes with a human-centered approach. My extensive alumni and diaspora networks, along with connections to worldwide investors, mentors, international NGOs, funders, and embassies, provide valuable resources.
I am committed to sharing best practices in fundraising, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement. My ability to bring a fresh perspective to every discussion, combined with a creative mindset that generates innovative ideas, ensures that I can contribute significantly to AfriLabs. My goal is to leverage these assets to support AfriLabs’ mission and drive impactful progress across the African entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Motivation: What motivates me most is bringing out the best in people through inspiration and motivation, sharing my experiences, and connecting them with the right expertise. I thrive on exceeding expectations, whether it’s within communities or achieving tangible results based on KPIs. Doing the right things drives me, prioritizing impact and sustainability over mere profit.
I am detail-oriented and dedicated to doing things right, ensuring stakeholder satisfaction, and implementing policies and processes that reflect our values, all while tackling challenges with effective problem-solving.
Fundraising Experience: I have successfully secured funding for various projects, initiatives, and startups through a combination of grants, partnerships, and investor relationships (Mercy Corps, SPARK NGO, GIZ, Medcities, Smart Capital, Carthage Business Angel, ImpactHUB, EDGE RYDERS, Impact Partner, The Mediterranean Innovation Partnership (MIP), CIHEAM Bari, ARSII, US Embassy).
Organized and hosted two demo day sessions in 2020 and 2023 with the participation of +150 participants, including 50 investors and 20 startups, and helped secure 5 seed funds.
My approach involves developing compelling proposals, conducting thorough research on funding opportunities, and leveraging my network to connect with potential donors and investors. I prioritize building long-term relationships based on trust and mutual benefit, ensuring sustainability and growth for the initiatives I support. ( During the ENI project 2023 with SPARK NGO, I had the best financial report announced by its project manager).
Takeaways during/from the Role: I am eager to learn from the experiences of fellow board members, gaining insights into effective governance and strategic decision-making.
I aspire to achieve significant results and make a tangible impact within a shorter timeframe, leveraging collective expertise and resources.
Additionally, I look forward to learning new processes and alternative management approaches, broadening my understanding of diverse African workplace cultures. Strengthening and expanding my network across the continent is also a key objective, fostering collaborations that enhance AfriLabs’ influence and reach.
Fun Fact: Although I’m a fast-paced woman, my favorite animal is a snail 🐌.
Social Media:
Any other information:
Name: Keneth Twesigye
Name of Hub: Tech Buzz
Hub Location: Kampala, Uganda
Email Address: tkeneth@techbuzzhub.org
Phone Number: +256781405551 / +256702799754
Why are you interested in being on the Board: Hello, I am Keneth Twesigye, CEO and Founder of TechBuzz Hub in charge of Governance, Business relationships, innovation, and strategic growth and development. I am also a founding member of the Startup Uganda Association of Hubs. I lead policy development for the Ugandan Startup Ecosystem.
Being a Board member of AfriLabs provides me with a compelling opportunity to contribute to the advancement of innovation and technology, supporting startup ecosystems of different countries, networking and collaboration, policy advocacy, capacity building and mentorship, impact, and contribution to the members’ success. My interest in this role stems from a deep-seated passion for fostering entrepreneurship, startups, and technological growth on the continent. I am particularly drawn to AfriLabs’ mission of supporting innovation hubs and their communities to raise high-potential entrepreneurs that will stimulate economic growth and social development in Africa.
Moreover, I am eager to support initiatives that enhance the capacity of Ecosystem Support Organisations and their innovators/entrepreneurs, helping them scale their solutions and make a Pan-African impact and global excellence. By serving on the Board, I aim to leverage my experience to strengthen the ecosystem, advocate for supportive policies, fundraise, and foster an environment where African entrepreneurs can thrive. This role represents an opportunity for me to contribute meaningfully to the continent’s technological and economic landscape, driving positive change and growth.
Current Organizational Affiliations: We have quite several Affiliations:
Prior/Current Leadership Experiences:
What to Offer: With over 10 years in the Technology, Innovation, Startup, and Entrepreneurship ecosystem, both as a founder, entrepreneur, and innovator, I bring a rich and unique perspective and a diverse skill set that aligns with AfriLabs’ goals as well as the roles for the Board at Large Member.
My background in technology as a Computer Scientist, and experience in entrepreneurship, business analysis, sector authorship, fundraising, mentorship, and policy combined with experience in strategic planning and corporate governance positions me to offer invaluable insights and guidance.
I am committed to; promoting the participation of all members of AfriLabs across the 53 countries starting with creating rapport with each member representative, promoting collaboration amongst hubs, facilitating access to resources, and nurturing a culture of innovation.
I bring a unique experience of entrepreneurship policy development having worked in the startup policy development space for 3 years while undertaking learning from different institutions such as i4Policy’s MOOC courses e.g. Participatory Ecosystem Assessment, Understanding the Legal Side of entrepreneurship policy, Success of entrepreneurship policy and Introduction + fundamentals of entrepreneurship policy
I am a writer and author of the Startup Experience Book – A Manual for Startup Entrepreneurs.
Motivation: I am a strong believer in continuous improvement to maintain adaptable and responsive organizations ready for changing market conditions and business demands. I am deeply exposed to innovation development in the areas of; technology, finance, agriculture, and services industry.
My major objective is; to mentor a new breed of young entrepreneurs capable of transforming Africa’s economy through improving early-stage business operations, strategy development, profitability, and performance.
Fundraising Experience: As a business development consultant, I possess excellent skills in writing proposals; mainly grants and fundraising proposals, project-based (monitoring and evaluation) responses to calls, and scientific and applied research proposals. This is manifested through clearly articulating problems, and gaps, as well as identifying opportunities that inform project/program design, goal and objective setting, as well as designing monitoring and evaluation tools and frameworks such as Logic models and theories of change together with log frames. My extensive experience has shown that collaborative projects are often the most successful.
I believe that associating with an institution like AfriLabs will further enhance my ability to leverage my skills. My experience includes delivering successful projects for private entities, and business associations, and providing my expertise to TechBuzz Hub.
Takeaways during/from the Role: I love great challenges because they make you grow both at personal and professional levels, and I believe this is a challenge I look forward to, given the chance to demonstrate my full potential to contribute to the transformation of AfriLabs members and the African economy at large.
I would love to build great networks with the members of AfriLabs across different countries to easily discuss how they can leverage innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship with the networks under Afrilabs. This shall contribute to building both the hubs and the entire African economic muscle. And through this opportunity, could lead to future collaborations as well.
I also believe this builds up my profile of influence and impact thus fulfilling my purpose through my passion for entrepreneurship
Fun Fact: In the company of children, I am one of them and perhaps their favorite fellow. / Left for school put on shoes and returned carrying them as a child.
Social Media:
Any other information: If you are looking for a doer, a practical person, or a visionary fellow, be rest assured. Trust me with your Vote and you can only hold me responsible for the Board Member at Large roles.
