Ethiopia - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Our Project is on a soapberry tree leaves called Gob tree(kukura), treasure trove of natural skin care wonders skin care, presenting Ethiopian and Somalia natural skincare and wellness secrets to the modern world.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Our business specializes in providing high-quality, natural wellness products, with a particular focus on Qasil powder and other organic items designed to enhance health and beauty. Qasil, derived from the leaves of the Gob tree native to East Africa, is renowned for its versatile uses and benefits, including skincare, haircare, and overall wellness. We are committed to sourcing our ingredients from sustainable and ethical Ethiopian farmers. Our Qasil is harvested and processed under strict quality control measures to ensure purity and potency. Our packaging is eco-friendly, reflecting our dedication to environmental sustainability. We use recyclable and biodegradable materials to minimize our ecological foot print .Our mission is to promote natural wellness by offering high-quality, sustainable products that harness the power of nature. We are dedicated to helping our customers achieve their health and beauty goals through education, innovation, and friendly customer service.

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

Our Qasil and wellness natural items business aims to address the gap in the market for effective, natural, and sustainable health and beauty solutions. We focus on providing high-quality Qasil powder and other organic products that cater to skin and hair health needs, meeting the rising demand for eco-friendly and chemical-free alternatives. By educating consumers on the benefits and uses of our products, we strive to increase awareness and accessibility to traditional, nature-based wellness solutions

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your startup provides (at least 3).

1. Natural and Effective Solutions our business offers products made from natural ingredients, particularly Qasil powder, which is known for its effectiveness in skincare and haircare. , our natural formulations appeals to health-conscious consumers looking for safer, holistic alternatives to conventional beauty products. 2. Sustainability and Ethical Practices our commitment to sustainability sets our business apart. By sourcing ingredients ethically and using eco-friendly packaging, we address growing consumer concerns about the environmental impact of their purchases. brand loyalty and trust. our business demonstrates that high-quality, effective products can also be kind to the planet. 3. Educational and Community Engagement fostering a community of wellness enthusiasts through interactive workshops and personalized consultations enhances customer engagement and satisfaction, creating a loyal customer base.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your startup’s product/service is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

1. Health and Beauty Enthusiasts They are interested in products that offer tangible benefits without harmful chemicals. This group values quality, efficacy, and the origin of the products they use. 2. Environmentally Conscious Consumers This demographic prioritizes sustainability and ethical practices in their purchasing decisions. They are concerned about the environmental impact of their beauty and wellness products and prefer brands that use eco-friendly packaging and sustainable sourcing methods. 3. People with Sensitive Skin and Hair our natural and gentle formulations, particularly Qasil powder, provide a safe and effective solution for these customers, addressing their specific needs without compromising on result. 4. Cultural and Traditional Wellness Seekers Consumers who are interested in traditional and culturally significant wellness products

01.05 When was your company established?

2023-03-09

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

Yes

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

0

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

1

01.09 Please describe the profile of the other owners within your startup (skills, experience, etc.)

none

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

https://www.tiktok.com/@qasilbyabigail?_t=8n6a7YMXWJK&_r=1

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

Other: Beauty and Health

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

1. Creating Employment Opportunities By establishing our business, we create direct and indirect employment opportunities. This includes jobs within our company, such as production, marketing, and sales roles, as well as opportunities within your supply chain, especially for local communities involved in the harvesting and processing of Qasil and other natural ingredients. 2. Supporting Local Farmers and Producers our commitment to sourcing Qasil and other ingredients sustainably and ethically can significantly impact local economies. By working directly with small-scale farmers and producers, particularly in developing regions where these ingredients are grown, we provide them with a stable income. Fair trade practices ensure that these workers are paid fairly for their labor, which helps lift them out of poverty. 3. Promoting Economic Growth and Community Development 4. Empowering Women and Vulnerable Populations 5. Ensuring Ethical and Sustainable Practices

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

5

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

1. Supporting Sustainable Agriculture 2. Providing Fair Income to Farmers 3. Investing in Agricultural Development 4. Promoting Agroforestry and Biodiversity 5. Educational Initiatives and Knowledge Sharing 6. Community Nutrition Programs 7. Improving Market Access for Farmers 8. Encouraging Crop Diversification

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

7 - Strongly Agree

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification for my startup

Providing Natural and Safe Products Offering high-quality, natural products like Qasil powder for skincare and haircare helps consumers avoid harmful chemicals found in many conventional beauty and health products. Promoting Preventive Health Care Your products can play a role in preventive health care by encouraging the use of natural ingredients for maintaining healthy skin and hair. Educational Initiatives By educating consumers about the benefits of natural ingredients and how to use them effectively, you empower them to make healthier choices. Supporting Mental Health Promoting holistic wellness through products that enhance physical health can also support mental well-being Ethical and Sustainable Practices our commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainability ensures that our business practices do not harm the environment or the communities we source from. Supporting Healthy Lifestyles Encouraging customers to adopt healthier lifestyles through the use of our products

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

6

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

Educational Workshops and Training Programs & Community Outreach and Awareness Campaigns

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Empowering Women in the Supply Chain - Fair Trade Practices: By ensuring fair wages and working conditions for women involved in harvesting and processing Qasil and other natural ingredients, your business supports economic empowerment. - Leadership Opportunities: Providing leadership roles and training opportunities for women within your organization and supply chain promotes gender equality and empowers women to play active roles in decision-making processes. Addressing Gender Disparities in Health and Beauty - Safe and Natural Products: Offering natural skincare and haircare products promotes health without harmful chemicals, addressing concerns often disproportionately affecting women's health.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

6

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

Sustainable Sourcing and Water Conservation - Ethical Sourcing Practices: Ensuring that our sourcing practices for Qasil and other natural ingredients do not contribute to water pollution or depletion. This includes partnering with suppliers who implement sustainable farming and harvesting practices that protect local water sources. - Water Conservation: Implementing water-saving measures in your production processes and encouraging suppliers to adopt efficient irrigation methods can reduce water usage throughout your supply chain. 2. Promoting Hygiene and Safe Practices Natural Hygiene Products: Offering natural hygiene products, such as Qasil powder for skincare, promotes cleanliness without harsh chemicals that can harm water systems. These products encourage sustainable personal hygiene practices that minimize environmental impact.

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

5

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

Cost Efficiency Environmental Sustainability Brand Reputation Long-term Stability

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

Job Creation: Expand our business operations in a way that generates employment opportunities, especially in communities where qasil or wellness products are sourced. Supply Chain Responsibility: Work with suppliers and partners who uphold fair labor practices and ethical standards. Local Community Engagement: Engage with local communities where we source your products.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

Adopt Advanced Technologies: Embrace technology solutions that enhance productivity, reduce waste, and improve product quality Support Sustainable Practices: Implement eco-friendly practices throughout our operations, such as energy-efficient manufacturing processes, waste reduction strategies, and sustainable sourcing of raw materials. This not only reduces environmental impact but also enhances our brand's reputation.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

5

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

Promoting Diversity and Inclusion *Create a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected. Equal Access to Opportunity * Ensure equitable access to resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities for all participants.

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

6

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

Local Sourcing and Community Engagement - Supporting Local Economies: By sourcing Qasil and other natural ingredients locally, you support the livelihoods of farmers and suppliers in the community. This economic stability contributes to sustainable development and resilience. - Community Collaboration: Engaging with local communities through partnerships, educational programs, and collaborative projects fosters a sense of ownership and promotes sustainable practices at the grassroots level.

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

5

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

1. Sustainable Sourcing and Supply Chain Management - Ethical Sourcing: Ensuring that Qasil and other natural ingredients are sourced sustainably, respecting biodiversity and local ecosystems. This includes partnering with suppliers who practice organic farming, fair trade, and ethical labor standards. - Transparent Supply Chain: Maintaining transparency in our supply chain, from sourcing to production and distribution, ensures accountability and fosters trust among consumers.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

Carbon Sequestration: Trees are natural carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis and storing it as carbon. By planting trees as part of our reforestation policy, we actively contribute to reducing atmospheric CO2 levels, mitigating climate change impacts. Ecosystem Restoration: Qasil harvesting may impact local ecosystems if not managed sustainably. By replanting trees in these areas, we help restore biodiversity, maintain soil health, and preserve habitats for wildlife. This supports ecosystem resilience against climate-related stresses. Water and Soil Conservation: Trees play a crucial role in regulating water cycles and preventing soil erosion. Their roots help stabilize soil structure, reducing runoff and enhancing groundwater recharge. This contributes to resilient agricultural practices and sustainable land management, particularly in regions vulnerable to climate variability.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

2

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

none

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

Biodiversity Conservation: Qasil harvesting is conducted in a manner that respects and preserves local biodiversity. Ecosystem Restoration: our policy of planting trees and restoring degraded lands helps rehabilitate ecosystems affected by qasil harvesting or other activities. Education and Awareness: Raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity conservation and sustainable land management practices. Measuring Impact: Monitor and evaluate the ecological impact of our qasil sourcing and reforestation efforts.

02.16.01 My startup contributes to the Peace Justice and Strong Institutions goal

4

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

Fair Trade and Ethical Sourcing: Ensure that qasil sourcing practices adhere to fair trade principles, promoting equitable partnerships with suppliers and fair wages for harvesters. This supports economic empowerment and social justice within local communities.

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

5

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

Supply Chain Collaboration: Engage with suppliers and partners to promote sustainable practices throughout the qasil supply chain. Establish partnerships based on mutual trust, transparency, and shared responsibility for environmental and social impacts.

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

7 - Strongly Agree

06.02 The product/service represents an entirely new type of product/service.

5

06.03 The product/service could be described as a new technology.

5

06.04 The product/service is an improvement on an existing product or service.

6

06.05 The product/service could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

5

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

7 - Strongly Agree

06.07 The product/service is a new version of an old product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.08 Justification for my startup

The Qasil and Wellness project is unique and innovative due to its holistic approach that combines traditional Somali natural remedies with modern wellness practices. Qasil, a natural and sustainable ingredient derived from the leaves of the Gob tree, is traditionally used in Somali culture for skincare and health benefits. By integrating Qasil into a range of wellness products, this project not only promotes the preservation of cultural heritage but also introduces a natural, eco-friendly alternative to synthetic products in the global market. The project emphasizes sustainable sourcing and community empowerment, ensuring that local farmers benefit economically. Additionally, it leverages digital platforms to educate consumers on the benefits of Qasil, fostering a global community centered around natural wellness practices. This blend of cultural tradition, sustainability, and modern wellness trends positions the Qasil and Wellness project as a pioneering force in the natural health a

06.09 Competitive Analysis

our main potential competitors in the Qasil and Wellness bussines are established natural skincare brands, emerging natural brands, and conventional skincare giants. Established natural skincare brands offer a wide range of natural products and have strong market presence and customer loyalty. Emerging natural brands focus on unique ingredients and niche marketing, while conventional giants like Neutrogena and Olay dominate with vast resources but often face scrutiny for environmental and health impacts. What makes us stand out is the unique integration of Qasil, a traditional Somali ingredient, into modern wellness products. This not only differentiates our brand through cultural authenticity but also promotes sustainability by supporting local communities and eco-friendly sourcing. Additionally, our focus on educating consumers about Qasil and building a global community around natural wellness practices creates a loyal and engaged clients.

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

Networking Opportunities: Creating platforms for women to network, share experiences, and collaborate on business ventures