Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I'm a woman in my fifties, a mother of three, who relocated to Mauritius from France six years ago. My professional journey started in communications, but about fifteen years ago, I shifted towards projects with significant social and environmental impacts within non-governmental organizations. These projects aimed to breathe new life into discarded items while creating green job opportunities for the unemployed.
What led you to Mauritius?
My journey to Mauritius began serendipitously. Initially, I arrived as a volunteer with local NGOs to understand the island's social fabric better. Subsequently, I utilized my expertise in waste management consultancy. The onset of Covid-19 disrupted my plans, making work scarce. However, it opened doors for me to participate in Climate Launchpad by pitching my project. Against the odds, I won, leading to the birth of La Déchethèque in November 2021 after a year of incubation.
La Déchethèque stands as Mauritius's premier circular economy e-commerce platform, offering a repository of second-hand building materials. It's my way of fostering sustainable living while addressing the practical needs of the Mauritian community.
What made you want to become an entrepreneur?
For me, entrepreneurship epitomizes freedom. It's about nurturing a dream or an idea and persevering through challenges to materialize it into a business. Additionally, I was driven by the desire to make a positive environmental impact and create value. Unable to find similar opportunities in traditional employment, I decided to forge my path.
Are Mauritians embracing the concept of Déchethèque and the circular economy?
Large corporations are compelled to adopt sustainable practices due to international standards and CSR obligations. However, among individuals, there's a lack of awareness about waste management and limited solutions available. Simple actions like proper waste disposal face hurdles due to inadequate infrastructure.
The enthusiasm exists, but there's a gap in implementing effective waste reduction strategies, exacerbated by the absence of supportive government regulations. Nonetheless, numerous NGOs and civil society initiatives are striving to fill this void.
What challenges do entrepreneurs face in Mauritius?
Entrepreneurship in Mauritius presents myriad challenges, especially for women juggling family responsibilities with business endeavors. Securing financing is another hurdle, with the financial landscape differing from Europe. However, Mauritius provides opportunities for those willing to navigate the complexities and demonstrate their capabilities. It's an arduous journey, but perseverance pays off.
Do you have any advice for women aspiring to become entrepreneurs?
In the initial stages, expect to put in a lot of effort with minimal financial returns, especially during the first two years. It's crucial to be mindful of the impact on your family life, particularly for women. Surround yourself with a supportive network of mentors, incubators, friends, and experts. This support system is vital for navigating the inevitable highs and lows of entrepreneurship. Don't hesitate to ask for help when needed. And remember to prioritize self-care. Entrepreneurship demands a lot of energy, so taking time for yourself is essential. Don't worry; a day off won't derail your business!
What are your future goals?
My aim is to further promote the circular economy both among businesses and individuals. I want to instill a mindset of conscious consumption, encouraging people to think before discarding items. My goal is to divert 100 tonnes of materials from landfills and create employment opportunities. Additionally, I aspire to ensure the continuity of these efforts even when I'm no longer able to lead them, especially in other Indian Ocean islands facing similar waste management challenges like Mauritius.
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