Mozambique - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Aveni is a social project dedicated to developing and providing affordable, healthcare products specifically formulated for people with albinism in Mozambique. Our mission is to empower individuals with albinism to protect their skin effectively.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

According to UNFPA Mozambique, currently there's 20.000 to 30.000 Mozambicans with albinism in the country and, bringing my project to life, it will be a groundbreaking project in the health field for people with albinism. Their skin is sensitive and daily, it is possible to see a lot of people with albinism suffering from sun exposure damages. This project envisions creating a line of skincare products (creams and sunscreens) based on exotic fruits from Mozambique, such as passion fruit, baobab, watermelon, avocado, and marula. These types of fruits contain vitamins that help protect and hydrate the skin of people with albinism. People with albinism require adequate intake of vitamins D, C, and E for healthy skin. These fruits were carefully chosen not only because they are native to Mozambique, but also because skincare products formulated with them have proven effective in various weather conditions, including those prevalent in Mozambique. Thinking of people with

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

The main problem I aim to solve is the lack of access to essential skincare products for people with albinism in Mozambique and other countries. Due to their specialized and sensitive skin, individuals with albinism often face increased skin problems, infections, and diseases as a result of this inaccessibility.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your project intends to provide (at least 3).

These are the major benefits of using the product that my project intends to provide: 1. Improved Skin Health and Protection: These products, formulated with vitamins C, D, and E from local fruits, can directly target the needs of albins' skin. Vitamin C helps protect against sun damage, Vitamin E promotes healing and combats free radicals, and Vitamin D, though not directly synthesized through sun exposure, can be topically applied in some formulations to aid skin health; 2. Increased Accessibility and Affordability: By utilizing locally sourced fruits, production costs can be reduced compared to importing ingredients. This means more affordable products, making them accessible to a wider range of albins, especially those in underserved communities; 3. Sustainable and Natural Ingredients: It would leverage the natural bounty of Mozambique's exotic fruits. This approach is not only sustainable but also reduces reliance on potentially harsh chemicals or synthetic ingredients

01.04 Please describe who exactly your project is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

My project is aimed at serving individuals with albinism in Mozambique, then the secondary target are families, friends and caregivers of individuals with albinism, healthcare professionals and policymakers and NGOs.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2023-06-13

01.06 How many other partners are associated with your business venture?

1

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

0

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

The profiles I envision are experienced professionals, such as chemists/cosmetologists, entrepreneurs and dermatologists; Women in the Albinism Community such as women with albinism and advocates of albinism, and Women in the Supply Chain such as Farmers/Harvesters of exotic fruits and logistics/distribution experts.

01.09 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link here:

https://www.instagram.com/ineva_mulenza?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

d) Primary commodities (food, drink, household and personal products)

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

My project will contribute to the no poverty goal, as it will reduce healthcare costs: skin cancer and other issues caused by sun exposure can lead to healthcare costs for people with albinism. Affordable sunscreens and moisturizers can help prevent these conditions, lowering overall healthcare expenses and freeing up financial resources for other needs. Another reason is that it will contribute to the no poverty goal by increasing employability: By protecting their skin and vision, people with albinism can participate more fully in the workforce. This can lead to increased income, improved livelihoods, and a pathway out of poverty. There's also the reduced burden on families: The financial burden of caring for someone with albinism can strain a family's resources, specially in Mozambique, where most of the population is almost poor. Affordable skincare products can alleviate this burden, allowing families to invest in other necessities like education and food security.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

5

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Having the possibility to get affordable skincare products can help alleviate this burden, it frees up resources that can be used for food security, contributing this way to the zero hunger goal.

02.03.01 My project contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

By buying AVENI products, the risk of skin cancer will be significantly reduced: albinism significantly increases the risk of skin cancer due to reduced melanin production, which protects the skin from harmful Ultra violet (UV) rays. Affordable and accessible sunscreens can significantly lower this risk. Prevention of skin damage and infections: specialized moisturizers and skincare products can help maintaining healthy skin for people with albinism, who are more prone to sunburn, dryness, irritation, and infections. This aligns with good health and well-being goal as healthy skin acts as a barrier against infections, contributing to overall health of people with albinism. Enhanced quality of life: by preventing skin cancer, sunburn, infections, and vision problems, affordable skincare products can significantly improve the overall health and well-being of people with albinism.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

The start up contrbutions will be: 1. Improved Attendance and Participation: When health issues related to albinism, like skin cancer or vision problems, are prevented or managed effectively through proper skincare, people with albinism are more likely to attend school regularly and participate actively in their education. Reduced Burden and Improved Focus: By mitigating the discomfort and pain associated with sunburn, skin conditions, and vision problems, students with albinism can focus better on their studies and learning.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

5

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

The startup contribution's will be: 1. Inclusive work environment: having a workforce that includes women with and without albinism fosters a culture of inclusion and demonstrates the company's commitment to diversity and equal opportunities. 2. Product development Informed by diverse perspectives: including women with and without albinism in the product development process allows for a more comprehensive understanding of user needs and experiences. This can lead to the creation of skincare products that are better suited for a wider range of users, including women with albinism.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

5

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

The startup contribution's will be: 1. By improving overall health, people with albinism may be better equipped to manage their water and sanitation needs. 2. Broader societal improvements: when people with albinism have access to proper healthcare, including skincare products, it can contribute to a healthier society overall. This can lead to a greater focus on public health initiatives, potentially including improved access to clean water and sanitation for everyone. Potential for Product Development: In the future, advancements in product development for people with albinism could lead to water-resistant sunscreens or moisturizers. This would be particularly beneficial in areas with limited access to clean water, allowing for continued skin protection even with fewer washing opportunities.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

The startup contribution's will be: 1. Sustainable packaging: AVENI will be using recyclable or biodegradable packaging for skincare products. 2. Manufacturing efficiency: Manufacturing processes for skincare products can be optimized to become more energy-efficient. This reduces reliance on fossil fuels and lowers greenhouse gas emissions.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

The startup contribution's will be: 1. Manufacturing and distribution: the production, distribution, and sale of affordable skincare products from AVENI specifically designed for albinism will create new job opportunities within the healthcare or manufacturing sectors. 2. Entrepreneurship: the development and distribution of our products will encourage entrepreneurship, particularly within Mozambique, potentially creating new businesses and job opportunities. 3. Healthier workforce: by enabling people with albinism to manage their skin health effectively, these products can improve their overall health and well-being. This will lead to a healthier workforce with potentially fewer missed workdays due to skin-related issues.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

The startup contribution's will be: 1. Promoting research and development (R&D): developing specialized skincare products for albinism will require ongoing research into the specific needs of this population and the unique properties of their skin. 2. Enhancing production capabilities: manufacturing safe and effective skincare products for people with albinism necessitates improvements in production processes and infrastructure. 3. Innovation for accessibility: creating affordable and accessible skincare products for people with albinism, AVENI will require innovative approaches to product formulation, packaging, and distribution.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

The startup contribution's will be: 1. Promoting social inclusion: access to affordable and appropriate skincare products will allow people with albinism to manage their skin health effectively. This helps them participate more fully in social activities, education, and employment opportunities, reducing inequalities based on health conditions. 2. Addressing discrimination: albinism can sometimes lead to social stigma and discrimination. By providing specialized skincare products, we will help addressing the practical challenges faced by people with albinism, promoting greater acceptance and inclusion. 3. Investing in vulnerable populations: people with albinism are a vulnerable population with specific healthcare needs and, investing in the development and accessibility of skincare products specifically designed for them demonstrates a commitment to leaving no one behind, as outlined in reduced in inequalities goal. 3. Ensuring Equitable Access.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

The startup contribution's will be: 1. Urbanization and vulnerability: AVENI is focused on creating sustainable cities and communities, which includes addressing vulnerabilities. In some cases, urbanization leads to increased exposure to sunlight for people with albinism, especially those who move from rural to urban areas. Access to affordable sunscreen and protective clothing will help mitigate this vulnerability in urban environments.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

5

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

The startup contribution's will be: 1. Sustainable sourcing: manufacturing companies can strive to source ingredients for these skincare products sustainably. This could involve using organic ingredients, minimizing water usage in production, and implementing ethical labor practices. 2. Durable and reusable options: encouraging the use of reusable applicators or containers for these skincare products can contribute to a more circular economy and reduce overall waste. 3. Lifespan of Products: Ensuring the effectiveness of these products throughout their shelf life helps to avoid unnecessary replacements and reduces waste. 4. Reduced waste: developing products with longer shelf lives or promoting refillable packaging can help reduce waste generation associated with healthcare products.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

The startup contribution's will be: 1. Conservation of resources: the production of many disposable healthcare products requires virgin plastic materials. Recyclable options will help conserve these resources and reduce the environmental impact associated with their extraction and processing. 2. Reduced waste generation: manufacturing and using disposable healthcare products generates significant plastic waste, contributing to landfill overflow and environmental pollution. Recyclable alternatives help reduce the amount of waste generated in the healthcare sector.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

I chose option 1.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

3

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

The option I chose is not among these options.

02.16.01 My project contributes to the Peace justice and strong institutions goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

1. Empowerment and social Inclusion: Access to affordable and appropriate skincare allows people with albinism to manage their health and well-being. This empowers them to participate more actively in society, reducing feelings of isolation and marginalization. When people with albinism can participate equally in education, employment, and social activities, it fosters a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. 2. Building equitable institutions: Affordable skincare for albinism may require government policies or programs to ensure accessibility, particularly in developing countries. This needs collaboration between healthcare institutions, policymakers, and NGOs. Effective and accountable institutions are necessary to implement and manage such programs, promoting a society that prioritizes the well-being of all citizens. 3. Combating discrimination: shows a commitment to equity and reduces the potential for discrimination based on health conditions.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

My startup contribution's will be: 1. Encouraging partnerships: developing and distributing these products could involve partnerships between governments, NGOs, healthcare providers, and the private sector. These collaborations exemplify the spirit of partnerships for the goal by bringing together different stakeholders to address a specific challenge. 2. Promoting innovation: research and development of specialized skincare products for albinism contributes to advancements in the field of dermatology and inclusive healthcare solutions.

05.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

1 - Strongly Disagree

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

4

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

1 - Strongly Disagree

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

1 - Strongly Disagree

05.06 The product/service we envision creating responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

4

05.08 Justification

Unlike many existing skincare products that rely on synthetic ingredients or imported materials, AVENI focuses on utilizing the natural bounty of Mozambique. We harness the power of exotic fruits rich in vitamins C, D, and E, potentially offering a more natural and beneficial approach compared to some traditional options. While existing products may be effective, they might not be specifically designed for the unique needs of people with albinism living in sunny climates like Mozambique. AVENI aims to bridge this gap by potentially incorporating traditional knowledge about these fruits and formulating products specifically for the Mozambican context. This approach can lead to culturally relevant skincare solutions that are highly effective for the target population. AVENI prioritizes partnerships with local farmers, particularly women harvesters, who cultivate the exotic fruits for our products.

05.09 Who are your main potential competitors and what makes you stand out from them?

AVENI's potential competitors are international skincare brands, smaller niche brands and local generic products. AVENI stands out from them in many points: 1. Focus on affordability and accessibility for the Mozambican market. 2. Locally sourced, natural ingredients rich in vitamins C, D, and E. 3. Development of culturally relevant formulations for albinism in a sunny climate. 4. Potential for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach. 5. Focus on empowering local communities through partnerships with women farmers and harvesters.

10.06 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

Yes! I am an english tutor for young female leaders.