Khetyan Amuah-Carius, who is an Ivorian entrepreneur, philanthropist, and mother of six, has emerged as one of the most dynamic figures redefining the intersection of business and social impact in West Africa. Known for her bold vision and relentless drive, she has managed to build a thriving career in real estate while simultaneously leading a fight against child malnutrition through her NGO, Petites Mains Afrique. Her story is one of resilience, balance, and purpose—proof that success is not only about personal achievement but also about the ability to transform lives.
Born and raised in Côte d’Ivoire, Khetyan grew up with a strong sense of discipline and a determination to excel. Drawn to the world of numbers and analysis, she pursued her education abroad, obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from the American Business School of Paris before going on to earn a Master of Science in Audit and Consulting at the prestigious ESCP Business School. These experiences shaped her worldview, equipping her with not only technical expertise but also an appreciation for how strong institutions and financial systems can influence communities. Her academic success set the stage for a career that would straddle the worlds of business and social impact.
Her professional journey began in the demanding environment of financial auditing, where she worked with top international firms such as PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) and Mazars in Paris. These roles sharpened her skills in strategic thinking and accountability, while also exposing her to high-level corporate challenges. When she later moved back to Côte d’Ivoire and joined Hudson & Cie in Abidjan, she carried with her a global perspective and the desire to apply her skills in ways that would directly contribute to her country’s development. It was during this time that she became increasingly aware of the pressing issues of poverty and malnutrition, which inspired her to seek solutions beyond the corporate boardroom.
In December 2014, Khetyan founded Petites Mains Afrique, an NGO dedicated to fighting child malnutrition while supporting education. What began as a modest initiative soon grew into a vital lifeline for thousands of children across Côte d’Ivoire. The organization provides free nutritious breakfasts to underprivileged schoolchildren, ensuring they have the energy and focus needed to succeed in class. To date, it has distributed hundreds of thousands of meals, with the ambitious target of reaching one million by 2025. For Khetyan, this mission is deeply personal, rooted in the belief that food is more than sustenance—it is a tool for social change. As she powerfully says, “Every meal offered can change a destiny.”
At the same time, Khetyan was building her career as a formidable businesswoman. She became Director of Korlink, a real estate and construction company that has developed high-end villas and modern office complexes in Abidjan, and she also took on a role as partner at Pulsar Partners, a real estate investment fund. These ventures positioned her as a leader in one of the most competitive industries in Côte d’Ivoire, where women are still underrepresented. For Khetyan, however, business success is not just about profits but about creating structures, both physical and social that enable communities to thrive. Her dual engagement in business and philanthropy demonstrates how private-sector skills can be harnessed for public good.
Her achievements soon began to resonate beyond national borders. In recognition of her leadership and impact, she was selected for the Leading African Women in Food Fellowship (LAWFF), an honor that positioned her as the sole representative of Francophone Africa in a prestigious international program. This milestone not only underscored her personal accomplishments but also highlighted the importance of elevating Francophone women’s voices in global conversations about food security and social development. It also reflected her unique ability to bridge two worlds, the corporate arena and the grassroots community hrough her belief that nutrition and education are inseparable foundations for progress.
Still, the road has not been without challenges. Securing consistent funding, managing logistics to expand programs into rural areas, and building reliable teams have all tested her resilience. Balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with the responsibilities of motherhood has also required strength and adaptability. Yet, Khetyan’s ability to turn obstacles into opportunities sets her apart. She continues to build not only physical structures through her real estate ventures but also brighter futures for children who might otherwise be left behind. Her life’s work is a reminder that true leadership is measured not by titles or wealth, but by the lives one touches—and in this, Khetyan Amuah-Carius has already left an indelible mark on her country and beyond.
