Samia Chelbi: Bridging Creativity and Technology to Empower Africa’s Future
In the vibrant heart of Tunisia, a profound vision was born. Samia Chelbi, a university professor at the time, realized the untapped potential of young minds brimming with creativity. Witnessing the transformative power of digital tools during an internship in Canada, she dreamed of bringing this innovation back home to empower Africa’s youth. However, navigating traditional academia proved limiting, and Samia knew she needed to create something revolutionary.
In 1999, she founded Netinfo—a platform built to bridge art and technology, turning untapped talent into global opportunities. Over the years, Netinfo has become more than a company; it’s a movement, a mission to inspire, empower, and uplift through the fusion of creativity and innovation.
The Metaverse is not just about virtual spaces; it’s a canvas for creativity, culture, and global connection.
A Platform for Growth and Innovation
Netinfo’s growth mirrors Samia’s vision to make technology accessible to all. From humble beginnings, it has expanded its reach across the continent, championing African talent and transforming the way digital tools are used.
One of the organization’s standout achievements is the Africa Metaverse Academy, where over 400 young individuals from 15 countries have been trained in cutting-edge Metaverse technologies. Beyond technical skills, the academy provides participants with opportunities to engage with international markets, a crucial step in empowering the next generation of innovators.
Another groundbreaking initiative is the Africa Metaverse, a digital showcase of the cultural heritage of seven African nations. By using technology to preserve and celebrate Africa’s rich traditions, Netinfo is not just empowering its people but also sharing their stories with the world. Supported by Epic Games, this project demonstrates how creativity and technology can converge to make an impact on a global scale.
Netinfo also launched TalentVerse, a Metaverse platform designed to connect African talent with global opportunities. Recognized by the African Union’s Skills Initiative for Africa program, TalentVerse has created a pipeline of skilled individuals ready to thrive in the digital economy.
Additionally, Netinfo actively supports creating new avenues for collaboration between technology and the creative industries. By partnering with various organizations and investing in modern technologies, it ensures that the African creative sector remains competitive in the global arena.
The Metaverse is not just about virtual spaces; it’s a canvas for creativity, culture, and global connection.
Overcoming Challenges with Purpose
Building an organization of this scale has been far from easy. Samia and her team faced significant challenges, including the lack of resources and the skills gap in the field of Metaverse technology. Recognizing these barriers as opportunities, Netinfo prioritized creating programs like the Africa Metaverse Academy to bridge the divide and equip young people with the tools they need to succeed.
Another challenge was raising awareness about the practical applications of the Metaverse. While many view it as an abstract concept, Samia ensured that Netinfo’s projects delivered real-world value—whether by preserving cultural heritage or providing economic opportunities. Through strong partnerships with organizations like Epic Games and support from the African Union, Netinfo has been able to overcome resource constraints and turn innovative ideas into actionable realities.
As a leader, Samia emphasizes the importance of fostering resilience within her team. Her ability to inspire her team members and encourage collaboration has been pivotal in addressing challenges and driving the organization’s mission forward. Netinfo’s culture of adaptability and learning has enabled it to weather obstacles and seize opportunities in an ever-changing technological landscape.
Shaping the Future of the Metaverse
The Metaverse represents an exciting frontier, and Netinfo is at its forefront, pioneering inclusive and transformative projects. For Samia, the Metaverse is more than just a technological marvel; it’s a tool for connection and empowerment. By creating platforms that celebrate diversity and provide opportunities, Netinfo is ensuring that underrepresented communities, particularly in Africa, can access the limitless possibilities of this digital realm.
The Africa Metaverse and TalentVerse exemplify Netinfo’s commitment to inclusion. These platforms don’t just connect people—they also celebrate culture, preserve heritage, and open doors for a generation eager to make its mark on the world stage.
Beyond creating platforms, Netinfo actively invests in research and innovation to explore the future possibilities of the Metaverse. By staying ahead of trends and continually evolving its projects, it ensures that its impact remains relevant and far-reaching.
Technology alone can’t build a thriving Metaverse. It’s the fusion of art, creativity, and innovation that shapes its true potential.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Samia’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, purpose, and perseverance. She believes in the immense potential of young talent and is dedicated to providing them with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. At Netinfo, the ethos is simple: creativity knows no boundaries, and technology can be the ultimate equalizer.
Her leadership style combines vision with empathy. Samia’s focus on nurturing her team and empowering individuals has created a strong organizational culture that prioritizes innovation and inclusivity. She often emphasizes that success is a collective effort, achieved through the dedication and collaboration of every team member.
Her message to aspiring creators and innovators is one of hope and encouragement: “Your ideas matter. Even in the face of challenges, your passion and determination can break barriers. Dream big, stay curious, and don’t hesitate to take that leap.”
Netinfo also offers mentorship programs, workshops, and resources designed to inspire young creators. By equipping them with the knowledge and skills they need to excel, it empowers the next generation to become leaders in their respective fields.
By combining creativity and technology, we’re not just creating immersive experiences—we’re shaping a future where cultural heritage and innovation coexist in harmony.
A Legacy of Impact
Under Samia Chelbi’s visionary leadership, Netinfo continues to redefine how art and technology intersect, bringing innovation and inspiration to Africa and beyond. Each project reflects the company’s unwavering commitment to driving social and economic progress through creativity and technology.
As Netinfo moves forward, its mission remains clear: to nurture creativity, celebrate culture, and empower the next generation to shape a better future for all. By staying true to its values and
embracing innovation, it is poised to make an even greater impact in the years to come.
Samia’s leadership and Netinfo’s initiatives offer a blueprint for how technology can be harnessed to create meaningful change. Together, they are building a future where creativity and technology go hand in hand, empowering Africa to shine on the global stage.
In the Metaverse, it’s not about technology for technology’s sake; it’s about how we use it to connect, create, and empower people across the globe.