In Benin, poverty still affects over a third of the population, with 51% of young adults aged 18 to 35 reporting that they are unemployed. The main challenge facing youth is not a complete lack of work, but rather its poor quality—often informal, precarious, and low-paid. Young rural women remain the most vulnerable.
Yet, entrepreneurship remains highly attractive: nearly two-thirds of young people aspire to start their own business.
In this context La Petite Etoile Foundation is contributing to the project led by Chryshnel, winner of the Fondation de France’s 2026 Déclics Jeunes competition.
Originally from Benin, Chryshnel holds a Master's degree in Environmental Science and Technology from CY Cergy Paris University and is currently pursuing a University Diploma in 'Acting for the Climate' at CentraleSupélec.
Her project provides training in recycling trades, entrepreneurship, and the circular economy for 60 young women and 60 young men in vulnerable situations in Abomey-Calavi, Benin. It aims to transform urban waste streams—specifically plastics and wood—into economic resources. Chryshnel plans to launch 20 micro-enterprises specialized in collecting, sorting, and recycling plastic waste and wood residues into decorative items and eco-designed furniture, as well as selling them in local markets.
Target audience / Number of beneficiaries : 120 young people
Total budget : €8,000
Location : Abomey-Calavi (Benin)
Co-funding partners / Co-participants: La Petite Etoile Foundation, Fondation de France
Contribution from La Petite Etoile Foundation : €6,000
In Benin, poverty still affects over a third of the population, with 51% of young adults aged 18 to 35 reporting that they are unemployed. The main challenge facing youth is not a complete lack of work, but rather its poor quality—often informal, precarious, and low-paid. Young rural women remain the most vulnerable.
Yet, entrepreneurship remains highly attractive: nearly two-thirds of young people aspire to start their own business.
In this context La Petite Etoile Foundation is contributing to the project led by Chryshnel, winner of the Fondation de France’s 2026 Déclics Jeunes competition.
Originally from Benin, Chryshnel holds a Master's degree in Environmental Science and Technology from CY Cergy Paris University and is currently pursuing a University Diploma in 'Acting for the Climate' at CentraleSupélec.
Her project provides training in recycling trades, entrepreneurship, and the circular economy for 60 young women and 60 young men in vulnerable situations in Abomey-Calavi, Benin. It aims to transform urban waste streams—specifically plastics and wood—into economic resources. Chryshnel plans to launch 20 micro-enterprises specialized in collecting, sorting, and recycling plastic waste and wood residues into decorative items and eco-designed furniture, as well as selling them in local markets.
Target audience / Number of beneficiaries : 120 young people
Total budget : €8,000
Location : Abomey-Calavi (Benin)
Co-funding partners / Co-participants: La Petite Etoile Foundation, Fondation de France
Contribution from La Petite Etoile Foundation : €6,000