From May 14 to 16, 2025, I had the unique opportunity to represent Centre Arrupe, Madagascar and the youth trained by AJAN (African Jesuit AIDS Network) at the 8th edition of AACOSE – the Annual Africa Conference on Social Entrepreneurship – held at Tangaza University in Nairobi, Kenya. This pan-African gathering was much more than an event for me: it was a true space for connection, learning, and showcasing the commitment of African youth to building a sustainable future.

As the lead of the SARABIO project, which promotes innovative waste management in Toliara through a circular economy approach, I had the honor of presenting our initiative at the heart of an engaged and inspiring community. I took part in several sessions that deeply impacted me, particularly those focused on climate resilience, social financing for impact economies, and the circular economy.

These themes strengthened my conviction that Africa’s ecological and social challenges require locally rooted solutions supported by strategic alliances. I was especially impressed by the central role given to youth—not merely as beneficiaries, but as drivers of change. The conference demonstrated that in Africa, many innovative solutions are emerging from the realities on the ground.

My participation in the event was marked by the representation of SARABIO in several forms: a concise pitch of the project, active presence at the exhibition stand, and informal yet rich and sincere discussions with other project leaders. I was pleasantly surprised by the interest generated by our waste recovery model, particularly in relation to sustainable agricultural inputs and plastic recycling. Opportunities for collaboration emerged with private entities and technical stakeholders interested in engaging in a collaborative exchange. These encounters open up promising prospects, Concrete opportunities for SARABIO, both in terms of strengthening our skills and in the search for funding. But beyond partnerships, a human network was also woven: a network of young African entrepreneurs driven by the same passion, the same urgency to act and transform our local realities.

When I gave a presentation at AACOSE-8 on how the SARABIO Group are advancing the circular economy through social Innovation; that involves minimizing waste to promote a sustainable use of natural resources in Madagascar.

This journey also taught me a life lesson: sometimes, the most beautiful opportunities arise when you least expect them. Preparing for my departure was a race against time, between administrative procedures in Madagascar and logistical challenges, I almost didn’t make it. And once there, not speaking English, I had to step out of my comfort zone, adapt, dare to speak sometimes with gestures, often with a smile. But the warm welcome, the kindness of the participants, and the collective energy carried me through. I realized that determination opens doors we thought were closed. You don’t have to be 100% ready to seize an opportunity you just have to believe, take the leap, give your best, and the rest will follow.

Today, I have returned to Madagascar filled with ideas, connections, and gratitude. More than ever, I believe in the ability of young Africans to create a future that is fairer, greener, and more humane. AACOSE8 gave me much more than just a platform to showcase our work, it was a space for exchange, a vision accelerator, and a catalyst for courage. It helped build bridges between African initiatives and inspired me to encourage other young people to dare, to take initiative, and to rise up so that together, we can build a better society.

By,

Antonio RAFAMANTANANTSOA,

General Manager, SARABIO,

JYSEA Trainee.