How did your experience at ADIS24 shape or influence your business or life in the months following?
My experience at the African Diaspora Investment Symposium (ADIS24) significantly influenced both my business and personal growth in the months following the event.
One of the key outcomes of my attendance was the establishment of valuable contacts with potential investors and partners. During networking sessions, I connected with individuals who shared my commitment to sustainable practices, leading to strategic collaborations that enhanced WEGE Company’s visibility and reach in the eco-friendly packaging market.
Additionally, the symposium provided me with insights into the latest trends in sustainability and innovation. I learned about cutting-edge technologies and practices that could be integrated into our manufacturing processes. Inspired by these ideas, I implemented new techniques for optimizing the use of wastes, resulting in improved product quality and reduced costs.
Furthermore, the knowledge gained from workshops informed me on strategic planning, enabling me to better position WEGE Company for growth and expansion. I adopted new marketing strategies that emphasized the environmental benefits of my products, which resonated well with consumers increasingly concerned about sustainability.
In general, my experience at ADIS24 not only expanded my professional network but also equipped me with practical knowledge and resources to propel WEGE Company forward in the competitive landscape of eco-friendly packaging.
What were you able to accomplish with the $10,000 you won from the adis24 competition and how has it affected the WEGE company and your community?
We utilized the $10,000 prize from the ADIS24 competition to significantly advance WEGE COMPANY. This funding allowed me to enhance our production capabilities by investing in necessary new equipment, which increased the efficiency and volume of the sustainable packaging products produced.
With the financial boost, Wege Company was able to expand its operations, thereby creating more job opportunities within the local community. This not only contributed to economic growth but also raised awareness about sustainable practices and the importance of recycling agricultural waste. Wege company has since been able to attract more customers, both locally and regionally, promoting the use of environmentally friendly packaging solutions.
Moreover, our success has fostered a sense of community pride and encouraged other entrepreneurs to explore eco-friendly business models.
What is in store for the future of the WEGE Company? What are you focusing on as an entrepreneur in 2025?
The future of WEGE Company looks promising as we continue to innovate in the eco-friendly packaging industry. With a growing global demand for sustainable solutions, we are well positioned to expand our market reach beyond Burundi. In 2025, I as, the CEO and founder, I am focusing on several key areas:
- Sustainable Sourcing: we aim to strengthen partnerships with local farmers and agricultural cooperatives to ensure a steady supply of raw materials, such as banana waste, paper waste, and rice straw.
- Product Development: We are planning to diversify our product line, creating new packaging solutions that cater to various industries, including food, cosmetics, and e-commerce.
- Technological Innovation: Emphasizing the use of advanced manufacturing techniques, we are investing in research and development to improve production efficiency and product quality.
- Market Expansion: We are looking to expand our operations into neighboring countries and explore international markets, leveraging online platforms to reach a broader audience.
- Community Engagement: As we have started, we committed to social responsibility, focusing on community education about sustainable practices and creating job opportunities for local residents.
Anything else you would like the ADN community to know about ADIS, WEGE Company or yourself.
I am passionate about sustainable development and environmental conservation. Wege Company is at the forefront of innovation in Burundi, creating eco-friendly packaging materials sourced from banana waste, paper waste, and rice straw. Our initiative not only addresses the pressing issue of plastic pollution but also promotes the use of local agricultural by-products, contributing to a circular economy.
I would like the African Diaspora Network (ADN) community to understand the importance of supporting sustainable businesses in Africa. I do believe that by investing in eco-friendly practices, we can create jobs, empower local communities, and protect the environment.
WEGE Company is committed to education and awareness about sustainability, and I invite the ADN community to collaborate on initiatives that promote eco-friendly solutions across the continent. I hope that through shared knowledge and resources, we can inspire a movement towards greener practices in all sectors.
I also emphasize the significance of networking within the African diaspora. I encourage community members to connect with entrepreneurs, share experiences, and support one another in driving change. Together, we can build a more sustainable future for Africa and the world.
Since ADIS24 Jolis has:
- Graduated from Acumen Leadership Academy East African Fellowship Program
- Been selected as part of the Top 50 African Business Heroes
- Successfully completed the Barka Fund Investment Readiness Program
We are so very proud of his achievements and we cannot wait to see what else is in store for him and his team at Wege Company.
Stay tuned for more information on the African Diaspora Investment Symposium 2025 Entrepreneurial Success Stories and Showcase. Visit the ADIS25 Webpage today for an overview of what to expect.
