Olivier Laouchez

Olivier Laouchez, from Martinique (French Caribbean) is a serial entrepreneur renowned for his role in developing the Trace group and promoting African culture globally. After studying at ESCP Business School in Paris, he launched Antilles TV, the first private television channel in the French West Indies, and later managed Secteur Ä, a leading independent hip-hop label in France. In 2003, backed by Goldman Sachs, he founded Trace, a media group dedicated to Afro-urban culture. 

Today, Trace operates in 190 countries reaching over 350 million fans. Trace is a leader in Afro-urban culture, fueled by the global popularity of Afrobeat and Amapiano. Since 2021, Trace has diversified into education with Trace Academia, an online platform for vocational training. Supported by a coalition of companies, governments, and institutions, Trace Academia has trained over 300,000 learners across Africa. Trace has also launched music monetization platforms, allowing over 40,000 artists to receive royalties. In 2023, the inaugural Trace Awards in Rwanda honored Africa's top artists, reaching 500 million viewers worldwide. 

Olivier is a sought-after speaker on creative industries and youth success. He is a Knight of the French National Order of Merit and cofounder of the Foundation for the Memory of Slavery. He resides in South Africa with his family.