Jeimila Donty : pioneer of ecological entrepreneurship
Jeimila Donty, the founder of Koraï, leads a pioneering initiative in eco-entrepreneurship. Originally from Madagascar and educated in France, her journey reflects a deep commitment to socio-economic improvement in Africa. Through Koraï, she aims to bridge the gap between environmental conservation and corporate responsibility, offering innovative solutions to encourage businesses to participate in biodiversity preservation.
On February 2nd, Jeimila Donty joined other entrepreneurs from the African diaspora in Lille to participate in the 2nd edition of Citizen Conversations. This event, a collaboration between the public policy incubator « Je m’engage pour l’Afrique, » founded by Ileana Santos & Amina Zakhnouf, and the Foundation for Innovation in Democracy, led by Professor Achille Mbembe, with the support of the French Development Agency and the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, aimed to bring together entrepreneurs, public officials, institutions, and citizens to reflect on the « role of business in the citizen and social space in Africa. » A theme that resonates deeply with Jeimila’s commitment.
As impact entrepreneurs, we all aspire to play a meaningful role in establishing a democratic and social model
« I met Ileana Santos through JMA almost a year ago. I was immediately impressed by this institution and wanted to get more involved. We had the opportunity to collaborate on several projects, including around the Ocean Decade. Together, we developed an awareness kit for young people, encouraging them to engage in ocean preservation. Since Lille is home to a hub of entrepreneurs from the diaspora, I found it relevant for them to organize an event in this city. After the first edition in Poitiers, the 2nd edition of Citizen Conversations took place in Lille. I had the privilege of contributing to defining the theme, focused on the « business act for democracy. » As impact entrepreneurs, we all aspire to play a significant role in establishing a democratic and social model. »
I could play an important role in improving the socio-economic conditions of my fellow citizens
This idea had early roots in Jeimila’s mind. « Born and raised in Madagascar, I emigrated to France at the age of 17 to pursue my studies and then my professional career. Coming from a family of entrepreneurs, I always knew I would venture into entrepreneurship. The economic disparities between France and Madagascar, as well as between Europe and Africa in general, led me to realize that I could play an important role in improving the socio-economic conditions of my fellow citizens. That’s why I focused my studies at ESSEC on Africa, with internships in South Africa and Togo, as well as a Centrale-ESSEC program in Morocco and Ivory Coast. »
By creating Koraï, I sought to reconcile my desire to contribute to the restoration of the planet with the needs of international companies in terms of social and environmental responsibility
A tragic event ultimately became the catalyst for Jeimila to fully engage in entrepreneurship. When her father passed away suddenly during the Covid-19 pandemic, Jeimila, stuck in France, couldn’t return to Madagascar to say goodbye. « This period was extremely difficult and led to deep introspection. Am I where I should be? Life is short, am I doing what I’m supposed to be doing? I decided to refocus my efforts on my initial project: contributing to improving the socio-economic conditions of my fellow citizens. This is how the idea of Koraï was born. With the support of my three brothers, we took over the family business specializing in coral reproduction for export. I wanted this company to reflect me. By creating Koraï, I sought to reconcile my desire to contribute to the restoration of the planet with the needs of international companies in terms of social and environmental responsibility. »
For the past year and a half, the young company has been assisting French companies in their ecological transition, helping them move from idea to action. « Today, the question of reducing or offsetting carbon emissions has become a major concern. Companies are aware of this issue, but biodiversity is often overlooked. We help them meet their new obligations regarding diversity and carbon by replanting corals and mangroves in Africa. Coral, which represents only 1% of the ocean’s surface, yet hosts 25% of marine biodiversity. Mangroves, on the other hand, have a much greater ecological impact than tropical forests. »
This initiative is a first in France. « We are pioneers in this field. Today, it is mainly associations that lead such projects. Our approach, very innovative, is at the heart of Koraï’s DNA: we use existing legal and financial mechanisms to compel companies to act and offer them concrete solutions. »
« It’s the beginning of an exciting adventure: we have 500 square meters of coral reef to restore ahead of us” The young company has its first marine area in northern Madagascar, where it is currently developing its pilot project. « We plan to sign the first contracts in 2024. It’s the beginning of an exciting adventure: we have 500 square meters of coral reef to restore ahead of us. »
