Meet our entrepreneurs
CinemArena is more than just screenings and workshops; it is a platform dedicated to empowering aspiring entrepreneurs. By providing funding, mentorship, and training, we support small and emerging businesses, helping entrepreneurs turn their dreams into reality.
Empowering the local community
Grants are more than financial support—they empower potential and transform dreams into reality. By offering targeted funding and resources, our grant programs enable individuals and communities to overcome financial barriers, gain new skills, and create lasting impact where it matters most.
Fostering social impact and empowerment
Many grants target communities or groups with fewer opportunities, such as women and young people, helping them achieve economic independence and improve their social status. By addressing both immediate and long-term challenges, these initiatives empower individuals to invest in their potential and build sustainable futures within their communities. This not only fosters self-reliance but also reduces the appeal of irregular migration by offering viable local alternatives and mitigating the risks associated with it.
Encouraging economic growth
By supporting small initiatives or businesses, grants help stimulate local economies, create jobs, and encourage further investment in the community.
Gossi Emma – Consom’actions
“I am Gossi Emma, originally from Daloha, and I am 38 years old. After earning my degree in Development Communication in 2015, I worked in the communications field for four years. My passion for organic poultry farming arose from observing that chickens are often unhealthy in battery farms. I started with five hybrid chickens at home and saw that they thrived. I then made it my personal mission to offer a healthy, sustainable alternative, also introducing environmentally respectful practices. In Bouaké, I am the first to offer this service, and I hope to inspire others. Thanks to Facebook, I learned about this CinemArena project initiative.”
Lamin Saidy – Welding Workshop
“I am Lamin Saidy, a 32-year-old welder from New Yundum. After six years of training in welding and fabrication, I established Lamin Saidy’s Welding Workshop in 2014 to provide quality services and train young people in my community. My passion for this craft drives me to share my skills and create opportunities for others. However, limited resources made it difficult to grow my business and meet customer needs. Thanks to the Cinemarena project, I attended a training program that taught me valuable business and marketing skills. With their support, I invested in new materials, upgraded my tools, and hired two employees to enhance my production. Through my work, I hope to inspire young people to build their skills and create their own paths to success.”
