AFRO GLOBAL CONNECT - abidjan
FEBRUARY 02, 2025
2:00 PM - 8:00 PM
HÔTEL AZALAÏ ABIDJAN
WHAT WE WANT TO PROMOTE?
Afro Global Connect is a transformative event celebrating innovation, entrepreneurship and cultural empowerment in Africa, hosted in Abidjan. This year's conference is characterized by a special partnership with the various Ministries of Culture and Youth of Ivory Coast.
The conference provides a platform for professionals, students, community leaders and innovators from around the world to connect, collaborate and exchange ideas. Through inspiring event discussions, networking and engaging showcases, participants will explore the intersection of entrepreneurship, education, culture and identity.
SPECIAL FEATURES
FILM PREMIERE: AYSHA
Join us for the exclusive screening of Aysha, the first feature film by social entrepreneur, writer, and producer Thione Niang. This powertul film explores themes of resilience, identity, and cultural pride, promising an emotional and thought-provoking experience.
BOOK TALK & Q&A: RETOUR A LA TERRE NATALE
Thione Niang will also host an engaging book talk on his latest release, Retour A la Terre Natale, where he reflects on the lessons learned from his personal journey of returning to his roots. The session will be followed by a Q&A, offering attendees a chance to engage directly with Thione and explore how his experiences inspire personal and professional growth.
THEMES AND FOCUS AREAS
1. Empowering Black Women Entrepreneurs
Workshops and panels with women leaders from the Black Women Market, showcasing strategies for sustainable business growth.
2. Innovation, Technology, and Startups
Highlighting African innovations and exploring collaborative opportunities with global markets, including sessions on fintech and digital transformation.
3. Cultural Identity and Global Connection
Celebrating the richness of African heritage through art, fashion, film, and literature, with engaging discussions on diaspora contributions.
4. Youth Engagement and Education
Opportunities for students and young professionals to connect with mentors, innovators, and changemakers across sectors.
Speakers and guests

Thione Niang
CEO of Thione Niang Group, Social Entrepreneur, International Speaker, Author and Farmer

MAMADOU TOURÉ
Minister for Youth Promotion, Professional Integration and Civic Service

FRANÇOISE REMARCK
Minister of Culture and Francophonie

KARIM OUATTARA
Deputy General Manager LONACI

MOSSADECK BALLY
Founder of the AZALAÏ HOTELS group

FABRICE SAWEGNON
CEO of the VOODO COMMUNICATION group Entrepreneur, philanthropist

STEPHANIE MBIDA
Entrepreneur, Investor and Coach

BLERTA CELA
Ivorian UNDP Resident Representative

YANN AMON
Entrepreneur and Financial Consultant

NABOU FALL
CEO of Vizeo & Nabou Fall Academy

YOUSSOUPHA
French Rapper and Singer-songwriter
AWARD CEREMONY

LEADERSHIP AND VISION AWARD
GLOBAL LEADERSHIP AWARD
This award recognizes a leader who has made a significant contribution to the advancement of Afro-Global relations in business, politics or social impact.
PIONEER AWARD
This award recognizes pioneers who have broken barriers and paved the way for others in their respective fields.
INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP AWARD
AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN INNOVATION
This award recognizes individuals or companies that innovate to strengthen Afro-global ties (technology, education, health care, etc.)
ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR
Recognizes exceptional entrepreneurs in the global Afro-ecosystem for their innovative business models and social impact
CULTURAL AND ARTISTIC EXCELLENCE AWARD
CULTURAL AMBASSADOR AWARD
This award is given to individuals or organizations that promote African culture and heritage around the world.
ARTISTIC IMPACT AWARD
This prize rewards artists or creators whose work has helped to elevate African art, music or literature to the rank of world reference.
SOCIAL IMPACT AND COMMUNITY BUILDING AWARD
SOCIAL IMPACT CHAMPION
This award recognizes efforts to address critical social issues (poverty, education, health, etc.) in Afro-global communities
DIASPORA ENGAGEMENT AWARD
This award recognizes individuals or groups in the diaspora who create meaningful connections with African communities.
COLLABORATION AND PARTNERSHIP AWARD
GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP AWARD
This award recognizes partnerships that foster meaningful Afro-global collaboration across all fields.
EXCEPTIONAL NETWORK AWARD
This award recognizes an individual who excels in building bridges and creating connections that advance the Afro-global agenda.
YOUTH AND YOUNG LEADERS AWARDS
EMERGING LEADER AWARD
This award highlights young leaders who have a significant impact on Afro-global development.
DIASPORA ENGAGEMENT AWARD
DIASPORA ENGAGEMENT AWARD
This award recognizes individuals or groups in the diaspora who create meaningful connections with African communities.
Tickets
Free Ticket
100 tickets available. Provided by UNDP and the Ivorian Ministry for Youth Promotion, Professional Integration and Civic Service.
Silver
Special Ticket
- Entrance to attend the Afro Global Connect conference
- Access to exclusive networking sessions with speakers and other partners
- Possibility to interact which would allow for direct engagement with participants.
- Cocktails & refreshments
Gold
VIP Ticket
- Entrance to attend the Afro Global Connect conference
- Access to exclusive networking sessions with speakers and other partners
- Possibility to interact which would allow for direct engagement with participants.
- Cocktails & refreshments
- Reserved front row seats for the film premiere and book presentation, plus a private meeting with Thiene Niang
Platinum
VIP Ticket
- Entrance to attend the Afro Global Connect conference
- Access to exclusive networking sessions with speakers and other partners
- Possibility to interact which would allow for direct engagement with participants.
- Cocktails & refreshments
- Reserved front row seats for the film premiere and book presentation, plus a private meeting with Thiene Niang
- Special access to the VIP lounge and dinner with keynote speakers, influencers and presenters
Agenda
8 AM - 9 AMWELCOME AND OPENING SPEECH
Registration and Networking Breakfast9 AM - 9:30 AMOPENING CEREMONY
Welcoming participants with a light breakfast and informal networking.
Distribution of program brochures and badges.9:30 - 10:15 AMOPENING SPEECH
Welcome of officials by host or master of ceremonies. Brief remarks by organizer or sponsor. Cultural show or video highlighting Afro-global ties.10:15 - 10:30 AMBREAK
Exposé inspirant d'un orateur de haut niveau en rapport avec le thème.10:30 - 11:30 AMROUND TABLE 1
Panel discussions11:30 AM - 12:30 PMROUND TABLE 2
Theme: Opportunities and Challenges in Afro-Global Networks Networking. Include a mix of industry experts and thought leaders.12:30 PM - 1:30 PMLUNCH BREAK
Theme: Cultural Synergies and Global Collaboration.
Q&A with the audience.
Afternoon: Workshops and Breakout Sessions1:30 PM - 2:30 PMWORKSHOP 1 (SIMULTANEOUS SESSIONS)
Catered lunch with cultural flavors to highlight the theme.2:30 PM - 3:30 PMWORKSHOP 2 (SIMULTANEOUS SESSIONS)
Entrepreneurship beyond borders. Art and culture as a means of global influence.3:30 PM - 3:45 PMBREAK
Technology at the service of Afro-global connectivity. The commitment of the diaspora for development.3:45 PM - 4:30 PMNETWORKING
Private Conversation with a Leader or Innovator4:30 PM - 5:30 PMNETWORKING SESSIONS
Proposal of structured activities for networking or meetings5:30 PM - 6:00 PMCLOSING CEREMONY
Recap of the day’s highlights.
Closing remarks and acknowledgements.
Announce plans for future Afro Global Connect events.6:00 PM - 8:00 PMMIXER PARTY/RECEPTION
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Mixer party/optional reception - To be confirmed
Refreshments and entertainment - To be confirmed
BECOME AN OFFICIAL PARTNER
Silver
Sponsor
- Inclusion in the “Thank you to our sponsors” display on the site
- Logo placement on the event website, program guide and some promotional materials.
- Recognition on Afro Global Connect Social Media Platforms
- (02) VIP tickets to attend the Afro Global Connect conference.
- Access to exclusive networking sessions with key speakers and other sponsors.
- Logo on the stage backdrop and main conference banner.
Platinum
Sponsor
- Inclusion in the “Thank you to our sponsors” display on the site
- Logo placement on the event website, program guide and some promotional materials.
- Recognition on Afro Global Connect Social Media Platforms
- (02) VIP tickets to attend the Afro Global Connect conference.
- Access to exclusive networking sessions with key speakers and other sponsors.
- Logo on the stage backdrop and main conference banner.
- Logo displayed prominently as Sponsor on all event materials, including digital and print media.
- Opportunity to deliver a 3-minute welcome speech to all attendees at the start of the event.
- Featured in all pre-event communications, including email newsletters, press releases and social media campaigns.
- Three dedicated posts on Afro Global Connect platforms highlighting your organization's commitment
- Possibility to organize a session (Speech), allowing direct engagement with participants.
Platinum
Sponsor
- Inclusion in the “Thank you to our sponsors” display on the site
- Logo placement on the event website, program guide and some promotional materials.
- Recognition on Afro Global Connect Social Media Platforms
- (02) VIP tickets to attend the Afro Global Connect conference.
- Access to exclusive networking sessions with key speakers and other sponsors.
- Logo on the stage backdrop and main conference banner.
- Logo displayed prominently as Sponsor on all event materials, including digital and print media.
- Opportunity to deliver a 3-minute welcome speech to all attendees at the start of the event.
- Featured in all pre-event communications, including email newsletters, press releases and social media campaigns.
- Three dedicated posts on Afro Global Connect platforms highlighting your organization's commitment
- Possibility to organize a session (Speech), allowing direct engagement with participants.
- (03) VIP tickets, reserved front row seats for the film premiere and book presentation, as well as a private meeting with Thione Niang.
- Special access to the VIP lounge with keynote speakers, influencers and partners.
Sponsors and Partners
Impact and Vision
AfroGlobalConnect is more than a conference; it is a movement that fosters collaboration, promotes sustainable development, and uplifts communities through unity and innovation. With the inclusion of Aysha's film premiere and the book talk on Retour Au Pays Natal, this year's edition will offer attendees unique cultural experiences alongside powerful conversations on entrepreneurship and education.
Through the partnership with African businesses , we underscore the importance of inclusive economic empowerment. Together, we strive to build a future where every individual's potential is realized, creating pathways to success for all.
Join us at the AfroGlobalConnect Conference at the Azalaï Hôtel Abidjan, where ideas flourish, networks grow, and change begins. Together, we will celebrate culture, empower communities, and shape the future.
#AfroGIobaIConnect2025
#Abidjan
#AzalaiHotels