Matthew D.MeredithManaging Principal
Matthew Meredith has twenty years of project development and blended finance experience. A serial entrepreneur, Matthew also works as a Project Manager and Investment Advisor. With years of resident experience in emerging markets, he understands the challenges and realities of executing projects. He is passionate about economic growth and takes a very practical approach to every project in order to achieve concrete results. An SME advisory specialist, he plays the role of intermediary between entrepreneurs, communities, capital providers and government. Matthew also has current technical experience in agricultural trade logistics, cold chain, energy markets and energy infrastructure. He has a BA from Tufts University in International Relations and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Business. In addition to a professional level of German and French, he has an advanced Arabic language training.
William C. Fellows Managing Principal
William Fellows has more than 18 years of experience in the MENA region, including 15 years in the Maghreb. His past projects focus on entrepreneurship support, financing and impact investment development, impact venture capital investment, and advisory in conceiving and structuring impact risk capital funds in the Maghreb and Francophone Africa. He has extensive experience in management and development of programs focused on green and circular economy financing. William holds a BA from Vassar College in Diplomatic History, an MA from Indiana University in Islamic History, and an MA in International Economics and Finance from Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies (JHU – SAIS). He also holds certificates in advanced Arabic studies from Moulay Ismail University in Morocco and the American University’s CASA program in Cairo, Egypt. He is fluent in Arabic and French.
Najwa El Iraki Senior Advisor
Najwa El Iraki is the Founder and Managing Partner of AfricaDev Consulting Ltd, a business development and advisory firm dedicated to the African continent. She is also the Managing Director of the North West Africa for Opportunity Network, a global business matchmaking platform headquartered in London that connects CEOs worldwide for business opportunities. Prior to this, she was the Head of Business Development at Casablanca Finance City Authority (CFCA). Previously, she was Senior Manager within Mazars’ Financial Services Group in London. Najwa has accumulated 15 years’ experience and holds a master’s degree in Business Management and Finance from Kedge Business School and Aston Business School. She is a qualified Chartered Accountant, member of both international accountancy and UK tax leading professional institutes (ICAS and ATT). She holds a certificate in leadership management from Harvard Business School. Najwa speaks fluently English, French, Arabic and intermediate Spanish.
Maha Filali Mouncef Operations and Projects Director
Maha Filali Mouncef is one of the first employees to join the LixCap team in 2013 as a project manager. Throughout her career, she has managed and contributed to multiple projects in the areas of temperature-controlled logistics (TCL), entrepreneurship, access to capital, and fund evaluation. She was responsible for the implementation of a two-year entrepreneurship support program “Gazelles Al Maghrib”. The program aims to provide technical assistance to targeted Moroccan businesses (start-ups and SMEs) in different business areas to help them grow their businesses, increase revenues, develop core competencies to scale-up, and raise funds. Prior to that, Maha served as a program manager of “Fundamental Growth Partners”, and as Junior Project Manager in the development of Friopuerto Tanger S.A, an $11 million multi-phased fresh food logistics hub at Port of Tanger Med, Northern Morocco. Maha has also held consulting and technical assistance roles in assignments related to fund evaluation in Africa, and SME financing in Morocco. Currently, Maha holds the position of Operations and Projects Director, for which she oversees daily operations activities and leads LixCap’s ongoing project work as well. Maha holds an M.Sc. in project management from the University of Westminster in London and a Bachelor’s degree in business administration from Al Akhawayn University in Morocco.
Ann Meceda Senior Advisor, AI and Global Development
Operating at the intersection of global diplomacy and corporate innovation, Ann Meceda is a senior technology executive specializing in AI governance and international policy. With over two decades of diplomatic service at the U.S. Department of State, Ann has been instrumental in advancing emerging-technology policies and fostering multilateral cooperation with key global bodies, including the EU, UN, OECD, ASEAN, and the Arctic Council. Ann pairs this deep public sector expertise with commercial leadership, having steered venture-backed tech companies through high-level C-suite roles in both the U.S. and Europe. She holds an MBA from the Haas School of Business at UC Berkeley.
Samir Belrhandoria Senior Advisor on Private Equity and PPP Investments
Samir Belrhandoria is a leading investment expert in energy efficiency, renewable energy and infrastructure in Morocco. From 2009-2016, Samir managed the EUR 80 million Moroccan Infrastructure Fund (MIF), a project led by large private capital players, international development finance institutions, and local Moroccan institutional actors. He oversaw deal flow sourcing and secured transactions in several areas, including renewable energy. Similarly, Samir managed the EUR 30 million African Energy Efficiency Fund Attijariwafa Bank (which also participates in the MIF) and SUMA Capital, a Spanish private equity firm. His experience with renewables extends to being Vice President of Corporate and Structured Finance for Theolia Emerging Markets, where he developed, analyzed and financed feasibility studies and projects in sub-Saharan Africa, Asia and other developing markets. His expertise with emerging market investment funds covers many different perspectives. He led fundraising for a pan-African cross-border fund for Attijariwafa and Emerging Capital Partners, acting as Fund Manager. Previously, he conducted the execution and review of mergers and acquisitions for Société Générale in France and ran their corporate and structured finance operations in Morocco. Samir has an MBA with a major in Corporate Finance from GEM Business School in France. He is fluent in English, French and Arabic.
Yassine Benider Finance and Investment Director
Yassine Benider is a seasoned finance and investment professional with over a decade of experience spanning banking, private equity, and financial advisory. He empowers entrepreneurs, SMEs, and corporations across emerging markets with strategic financial guidance. Holding an MSc in Finance and Investment, Yassine possesses deep domain expertise in project finance, deal structuring, and fundraising, with a specialized focus on infrastructure, energy, food logistics, and agribusiness.
His intricate knowledge of the Moroccan and African business landscapes allows him to architect practical, bankable solutions tailored to growth-stage companies and investors. Currently, Yassine spearheads the Financial Advisory practice at LixCap, steering complex mandates including financial modeling, feasibility studies, and transaction support. Previously, he served within the General Partner team of a leading international fund in the Moroccan healthcare sector and began his career as a credit analyst in corporate banking. A graduate of Al Akhawayn University and Middlesex University, holding the HEC Paris ICCF certification, Yassine is recognized for his structured thinking and ability to seamlessly bridge strategy and execution.
His intricate knowledge of the Moroccan and African business landscapes allows him to architect practical, bankable solutions tailored to growth-stage companies and investors. Currently, Yassine spearheads the Financial Advisory practice at LixCap, steering complex mandates including financial modeling, feasibility studies, and transaction support. Previously, he served within the General Partner team of a leading international fund in the Moroccan healthcare sector and began his career as a credit analyst in corporate banking. A graduate of Al Akhawayn University and Middlesex University, holding the HEC Paris ICCF certification, Yassine is recognized for his structured thinking and ability to seamlessly bridge strategy and execution.
Shiselle Povedano Project Manager
Based in Europe, Shiselle Povedano is a Project Manager at LixCap with over five years of experience steering complex initiatives across South and Southeast Asia, Central America, the Caribbean, and Africa; including key markets like Morocco, Kenya, and Egypt. She acts as a subject matter expert in cold chain logistics, focusing on optimizing flows for perishable products and identifying investment opportunities in temperature-controlled infrastructure. Her expertise spans the entire value chain, from first-mile aggregation to large-scale logistics hubs and ports.
Shiselle’s portfolio includes delivering feasibility studies, export market assessments, and orchestrating high-level trade missions and buyer conferences. She possesses extensive proficiency in managing mandates for both public and private sector clients, with a deep understanding of USDA, USTDA, and USAID frameworks (including programs like FFPr, RAPP, and MAP). She holds a Master’s in International Economics from Johns Hopkins (SAIS) and is fluent in Spanish, English, and Catalan, with working proficiency in French.
Shiselle’s portfolio includes delivering feasibility studies, export market assessments, and orchestrating high-level trade missions and buyer conferences. She possesses extensive proficiency in managing mandates for both public and private sector clients, with a deep understanding of USDA, USTDA, and USAID frameworks (including programs like FFPr, RAPP, and MAP). She holds a Master’s in International Economics from Johns Hopkins (SAIS) and is fluent in Spanish, English, and Catalan, with working proficiency in French.
Ghizlane Naji Deputy Managing Director
Ghizlane Naji joined LixCap in March 2021 as a Senior Project Manager. With 15 years of experience in the financial services sector, Ghizlane formerly served in the Financial Services Volunteer Corps in Morocco, working to strengthen central bank regulation and supervision and combat money laundering. Additionally, she has worked with commercial banks to expand financial inclusion and access to finance and has experience in payment schemes derived from work with Visa International covering Central Europe and North, West, and Central Africa. Across these regions, Ghizlane also gained a deep understanding of banks and markets at various stages of development while serving as an advisor to bank managers on profitability, technical and new product developments. Ghizlane holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Tourism Management from Curtin University, Perth Western Australia, and an Associate of Science Degree in Hospitality Management from City College of San Francisco. Ghizlane is fluent in French and English and can converse in Arabic, Spanish, and Japanese.
Rym Kharchi Program Officer
Rym Kharchi joined LixCap in June 2015 as a Program Administrator for the Morocco Sustainable Energy Financing Facility (MorSEFF) program, an EBRD program on lending via local partner banks, which LixCap supports in sub-contract to DAI Europe Ltd. Rym is responsible for processing middle office loans with partner financial institutions, including Group BMCE and Group Banque Populaire, and she manages program reporting for a EUR 110 million facility as well as consortium reporting. She is also in charge of Qualified Supplier relations, and she ensures timely and efficient follow-up with sub-borrowers for projects, starting from the financing request up until project implementation. Rym graduated from the University of Liege with a Master’s degree in Management Science, and from University Hassan II with a Master’s degree in public governance and Audit. Rym is fluent in Arabic, French and English.
Oum Keltoum Badalla Program Officer Associate
Oum Keltoum Badalla serves as Deputy Program Manager at LixCap, where she has been a Project Manager and Strategic Marketing Expert since 2017. She plays a pivotal role as the Lead Marketing Expert within the EBRD-mandated consortium for the Morocco GEFF Plus program. In this capacity, she orchestrates the comprehensive marketing, communication, and visibility strategies for the GEFF III and MidGEFF financing facilities.
Since 2019, Oum Keltoum has also supported the GEFF and GVC financing lines as a Relationship Manager and Marketing Consultant. Her responsibilities include driving strategic coordination with Partner Financial Institutions (PFIs), structuring project pipelines, and leading capacity-building initiatives. She holds a Master’s degree in Integrated Marketing Communication from the University of Westminster and a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a dual concentration in Marketing and Finance from Al Akhawayn University. She is trilingual in Arabic, French, and English.
Since 2019, Oum Keltoum has also supported the GEFF and GVC financing lines as a Relationship Manager and Marketing Consultant. Her responsibilities include driving strategic coordination with Partner Financial Institutions (PFIs), structuring project pipelines, and leading capacity-building initiatives. She holds a Master’s degree in Integrated Marketing Communication from the University of Westminster and a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a dual concentration in Marketing and Finance from Al Akhawayn University. She is trilingual in Arabic, French, and English.
Douha Mounir Program Support, Admin
Douha Mounir joined LixCap in July 2018 as a Program Administrator for “Morocco Sustainable Energy Financing Facility” program (MorSEFF). She is responsible for providing back and middle office support to the client’s operational team. She is currently working for the Green Economy Financing Facility program (GEFF). Previously, Douha was a Business Advisor at Acticall Sitel Group where she worked closely with the customers, creating loyalty programs, and developing a customer database. Prior to that, she had internships in International Business and Finance. Her last experience was in the International Trade Department at Banque Populaire during which she was responsible for the study of credit files, their feasibility and compliance with the Moroccan exchange regulation and participation in credit granting decisions to exporting companies within a credit committee. Douha earned a Master’s degree in International Management from the University of Legal, Economic and Social sciences in Fez. She is fluent in Arabic and French.
Nibrass EssouihliProject Manager
Nibrass Essouihli is a seasoned Project Manager with over a decade of experience spearheading high-impact investment, economic development, and capacity-building initiatives across Africa and the EMEA region. Nibrass possesses proven expertise in directing multi-million-dollar programs funded by major international donors and government agencies, including USAID, USDA, MEPI, and the World Bank.
With a robust track record in stakeholder engagement and strategic planning, Nibrass excels in conducting market assessments and executing complex cross-border projects. Adept at leading cross-functional teams, Nibrass builds enduring partnerships while ensuring strict financial, operational, and regulatory compliance. A multilingual professional (English, French, Arabic) with a solid MBA background, Nibrass brings a results-driven approach to driving sustainable development outcomes.
With a robust track record in stakeholder engagement and strategic planning, Nibrass excels in conducting market assessments and executing complex cross-border projects. Adept at leading cross-functional teams, Nibrass builds enduring partnerships while ensuring strict financial, operational, and regulatory compliance. A multilingual professional (English, French, Arabic) with a solid MBA background, Nibrass brings a results-driven approach to driving sustainable development outcomes.
Zineb El Mottaki Finance and Investment Associate
Zineb El Mottaki joined LixCap in 2018 and currently serves as Financial Consultant and Investment Associate, with strong experience in the energy and infrastructure sectors across Africa and Asia.
She has developed and structured complex renewable energy, gas, and infrastructure projects, operating at the intersection of project finance, sustainable investment, and sector transformation. Her expertise combines rigorous financial structuring with a deep understanding of regulatory, contractual, and operational dimensions of infrastructure assets.In the energy sector, Zineb has led the structuring and financing of distributed solar C&I portfolios under SPV-based project finance models, including debt sculpting, DSCR-driven sizing, covenant stress testing, and preparation of lender-grade documentation aligned with international standards. She has supported a local energy provider in Morocco in the assessment and deployment of smart grid infrastructure, contributing to financial modeling, regulatory alignment, and investment planning for grid modernization.
She has also worked on LNG-related assignments under a ministry mandate, contributing to financial and structural analysis within the broader context of national energy strategy and infrastructure planning.Beyond generation assets, Zineb has structured blended finance mechanisms aimed at catalyzing private investment in infrastructure. She designed a targeted grant incentive framework to unlock investment in cold-chain infrastructure, aligning disbursement triggers with financial viability thresholds and sector-specific performance metrics. She has also advised SMEs on investment readiness, financial structuring, and access to tailored financing solutions.Zineb is particularly experienced in the temperature-controlled logistics (TCL) sector, where she leads and manages numerous projects across Africa, Asia and Central America. Her work includes financial feasibility studies, business model structuring, investor mapping, and the development of scalable platforms designed to attract commercial and development finance capital. She integrates corporate finance and project finance approaches to ensure robust revenue models and disciplined risk allocation.
She has developed and structured complex renewable energy, gas, and infrastructure projects, operating at the intersection of project finance, sustainable investment, and sector transformation. Her expertise combines rigorous financial structuring with a deep understanding of regulatory, contractual, and operational dimensions of infrastructure assets.In the energy sector, Zineb has led the structuring and financing of distributed solar C&I portfolios under SPV-based project finance models, including debt sculpting, DSCR-driven sizing, covenant stress testing, and preparation of lender-grade documentation aligned with international standards. She has supported a local energy provider in Morocco in the assessment and deployment of smart grid infrastructure, contributing to financial modeling, regulatory alignment, and investment planning for grid modernization.
She has also worked on LNG-related assignments under a ministry mandate, contributing to financial and structural analysis within the broader context of national energy strategy and infrastructure planning.Beyond generation assets, Zineb has structured blended finance mechanisms aimed at catalyzing private investment in infrastructure. She designed a targeted grant incentive framework to unlock investment in cold-chain infrastructure, aligning disbursement triggers with financial viability thresholds and sector-specific performance metrics. She has also advised SMEs on investment readiness, financial structuring, and access to tailored financing solutions.Zineb is particularly experienced in the temperature-controlled logistics (TCL) sector, where she leads and manages numerous projects across Africa, Asia and Central America. Her work includes financial feasibility studies, business model structuring, investor mapping, and the development of scalable platforms designed to attract commercial and development finance capital. She integrates corporate finance and project finance approaches to ensure robust revenue models and disciplined risk allocation.
Her core areas of expertise include:
Project finance structuring and financing
Renewable energy, LNG, and smart grid infrastructure
Temperature-controlled logistics and agribusiness infrastructure
Blended finance and grant structuring
SME advisory and investment readiness support
Credit risk assessment and investment committee documentation
Prior to joining LixCap, Zineb gained experience in the Structured and Project Finance Department at Bank of Africa (BMCE), where she worked on infrastructure and corporate financing transactions.
She holds a five-year degree from Mundiapolis University in Casablanca and a master’s degree in financial engineering (2018) awarded by the IAE of Nice.
Abdallah Abra Economist Associate & Project Manager
Abdallah Abra occupe le poste de Responsable de la Recherche et de l’Analyse de Données (Research & Data Analytics Lead) et Chef de Projet chez LixCap. Il est spécialisé dans l’analyse quantitative et qualitative pour les études de marché mondiales et le développement des chaînes d’approvisionnement. Économiste expérimenté, Abdallah utilise la modélisation économétrique avancée et les méthodes de recherche mixtes pour diriger des évaluations de marché à fort impact en Afrique du Nord et de l’Ouest, en Asie du Sud-Est et en Asie centrale. Il a piloté un portefeuille diversifié de projets pour des acteurs internationaux majeurs, fournissant des recommandations fondées sur les données qui stimulent l’investissement et la facilitation des échanges. Parmi ses réalisations notables : USDA & Ifria (Afrique de l’Ouest) : Gestion d’une étude d’infrastructure de la chaîne du froid couvrant six pays (dont le Maroc, le Sénégal et le Ghana). Abdallah a développé des modèles de prévision basés sur le Machine Learning et élaboré un classement de priorisation des investissements, contribuant directement à l’obtention de 20 millions de dollars de financement par dette pour Ifria. IFC & Mirasco (Égypte) : Direction de l’étude de faisabilité technique et commerciale pour un projet logistique (3PL), validant le business case pour l’expansion de la chaîne du froid. IFC (Indonésie & Philippines) et ARCH (Éthiopie) : Analyse de l’offre et de la demande pour les services logistiques sous température dirigée (TCL) afin d’orienter la conception d’installations et les stratégies de service. Programmes USDA (RAPP, FFPr) & USTDA : Réalisation d’études de marché et d’évaluations de la demande pour divers secteurs, allant des noix de Californie en Afrique du Nord à la pisciculture en Côte d’Ivoire. Sur le plan technique, Abdallah maîtrise le développement d’outils propriétaires. Il a co-développé l’outil de calcul du marché adressable (AMC) de LixCap et conçoit des tableaux de bord de données commerciales complexes pour synthétiser les flux mondiaux. Son engagement envers l’innovation s’étend aux processus internes, notamment par la création d’outils basés sur l’IA pour accélérer l’analyse des enquêtes.
Abdallah est titulaire d’un Master en Économétrie, Statistique et Modélisation Appliquée de l’Université Mohammed V de Rabat.
Abdallah est titulaire d’un Master en Économétrie, Statistique et Modélisation Appliquée de l’Université Mohammed V de Rabat.
Ahmed Bentoumia Finance & Investment Associate
Ahmed Bentoumia est un expert en finance et investissement chez LixCap, où il pilote la modélisation financière, l’évaluation d’entreprises et les services de conseil en transaction depuis janvier 2020. Fort d’une solide expérience en finance d’entreprise (« Corporate Finance »), son expertise couvre les infrastructures, la logistique, l’agriculture et l’énergie. Depuis son arrivée, Ahmed a joué un rôle déterminant dans l’élaboration de cadres financiers pour des projets d’infrastructure complexes, notamment l’expansion du stockage frigorifique et des solutions de chaîne d’approvisionnement en Afrique du Nord et de l’Ouest. Actuellement, il dirige les volets financiers (« financial workstreams ») de grands programmes de développement, où son travail technique implique la création de modèles financiers directeurs (« master financial models ») pour des technologies d’énergie renouvelable et la réalisation d’analyses de valorisation approfondies pour des actifs existants. De plus, Ahmed dirige les initiatives de préparation à l’investissement, apportant un coaching stratégique aux entreprises pour les aider à définir leurs besoins en capitaux et à convaincre les investisseurs internationaux. Ahmed est diplômé en Gestion Financière et Comptable de l’École Nationale de Commerce et de Gestion (ENCG).
Abdelghani Lemsaad Administrative Officer
Abdelghani Lemsaad has been a member of the LixCap team since its beginning, and he holds the position of Administrative Officer. He has thirty years of business administration experience in Morocco. He specializes in executing the necessary procedures to successfully interface with government agencies and to fulfill authorization requirements on behalf of LixCap’s clients. Previously, he worked as an Accountant in an accounting firm (ACECA) and then as a Commercial Insurance Agent in SAFLOC. His mission was to manage accident records, and litigation case documents in the kingdom. Subsequently, he worked at FSVC (Financial Services Volunteer Corps) as an Administrative Agent during the Maghreb Financial Sector Modernization program, which spanned from 2004 to 2011. He was responsible for carrying out administrative support and travel logistics for field missions with international banking experts, regulators, etc. He is fluent in Arabic and French.
Yasmine Hassar Finance & Investment Associate
Yasmine Hassar serves as a Finance & Investment Analyst at LixCap, bringing versatile experience in transaction advisory, project finance, and investment readiness across Africa and Southeast Asia. Her footprint covers markets including Morocco, Kenya, Cambodia, and Ghana. Yasmine specializes in building robust financial models, developing business cases, and conducting investment analysis for critical sectors such as infrastructure, logistics, and agricultural value chains. Her recent portfolio includes advising InfraCo Asia on a strategic asset transaction in Cambodia and contributing to the ‘Finance for Peace’ initiative in Kenya.
Beyond her consulting mandate, Yasmine plays a vital role in LixCap’s corporate finance function. She ensures operational excellence in accounting, financial reporting, and strict DCAA compliance across multiple entities. She manages complex processes including cost allocation and revenue recognition, ensuring seamless alignment with donor, client, and regulatory standards. Yasmine holds a degree in Financial Management and Accounting from ENCG Kénitra. Prior to LixCap, she served as a Finance Officer for a German IT subsidiary and conducted cost analysis for OCP Group. She is fluent in French, English, and Arabic.
Beyond her consulting mandate, Yasmine plays a vital role in LixCap’s corporate finance function. She ensures operational excellence in accounting, financial reporting, and strict DCAA compliance across multiple entities. She manages complex processes including cost allocation and revenue recognition, ensuring seamless alignment with donor, client, and regulatory standards. Yasmine holds a degree in Financial Management and Accounting from ENCG Kénitra. Prior to LixCap, she served as a Finance Officer for a German IT subsidiary and conducted cost analysis for OCP Group. She is fluent in French, English, and Arabic.
Nacer Aderdour Georaphic Information System Analyst
Nacer Aderdour specializes in geospatial intelligence and remote sensing applied to agricultural systems, market infrastructure, and investment decision-making across emerging markets. At LixCap Advisory & Capital, he provides the spatial and analytical foundation for feasibility studies and market assessments commissioned by clients including the World Bank, IFC, USDA, and FAO.
His work spans Sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa, and South Asia, with a focus on post-harvest infrastructure, cold chain logistics, and agri-food supply chains. He holds a Master’s in GIS and Territory Management from Hassan II University Casablanca and is completing a PhD in geospatial AI and environmental forecasting. Nacer is fluent in Arabic, French, and English.
His work spans Sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa, and South Asia, with a focus on post-harvest infrastructure, cold chain logistics, and agri-food supply chains. He holds a Master’s in GIS and Territory Management from Hassan II University Casablanca and is completing a PhD in geospatial AI and environmental forecasting. Nacer is fluent in Arabic, French, and English.
Noura Chakir Project and Marketing Associate
Noura Chakir joined LixCap in 2020 as a Marketing Analyst and has since advanced to the role of Project and Marketing Associate. She plays a pivotal role in the development of cold chain infrastructure projects across Northern, Western, and Eastern Africa, ensuring seamless cross-departmental coordination and operational execution.
Noura has built extensive experience in fundraising and the management of USDA-funded initiatives for prominent U.S. Cooperators, including the California Walnut Commission, the American Peanut Council, and Potatoes USA. She is an expert in orchestrating trade missions, seminars, and targeted B2B matchmaking events, connecting importers, distributors, processors, and food service operators.
Her core competencies include end-to-end event management—covering logistics, procurement, budgeting, and omnichannel content development. Noura excels in delivering actionable market intelligence and post-event reporting to refine market development strategies. She adeptly coordinates with international delegations, government bodies, and creative agencies to ensure compliance with donor requirements while maximizing brand visibility.
Prior to LixCap, Noura spent two years as a Marketing Assistant in the cosmetics industry, managing brand development and sales across various distribution channels in Morocco. She also gained international experience through a communications internship in Barcelona. Noura holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing and Finance from Al Akhawayn University and a Master of Arts in Marketing Management from the United International Business School of Barcelona. She is fluent in French, English, and Arabic.
Noura has built extensive experience in fundraising and the management of USDA-funded initiatives for prominent U.S. Cooperators, including the California Walnut Commission, the American Peanut Council, and Potatoes USA. She is an expert in orchestrating trade missions, seminars, and targeted B2B matchmaking events, connecting importers, distributors, processors, and food service operators.
Her core competencies include end-to-end event management—covering logistics, procurement, budgeting, and omnichannel content development. Noura excels in delivering actionable market intelligence and post-event reporting to refine market development strategies. She adeptly coordinates with international delegations, government bodies, and creative agencies to ensure compliance with donor requirements while maximizing brand visibility.
Prior to LixCap, Noura spent two years as a Marketing Assistant in the cosmetics industry, managing brand development and sales across various distribution channels in Morocco. She also gained international experience through a communications internship in Barcelona. Noura holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing and Finance from Al Akhawayn University and a Master of Arts in Marketing Management from the United International Business School of Barcelona. She is fluent in French, English, and Arabic.
Emmett Stinson Project Manager & Research Analyst
Emmett Stinson is a Project Manager and Research Analyst with extensive project implementation experience spanning continental Africa and South Asia. He specializes in delivering high-caliber analytical reporting for both U.S.-based and international clients. His work frequently centers on food security assessments and market access strategies, with specific expertise in trade facilitation, cold chain logistics, and supply chain optimization.
Beyond logistics, Emmett has led technical feasibility studies for grid-level energy efficiency and renewable energy investments. He is responsible for rigorous quality assurance, partner coordination, and ensuring the timely delivery of outcomes in compliance with donor requirements. Emmett regularly spearheads secondary data analysis and stakeholder consultations for initiatives in agribusiness and climate-smart infrastructure. He holds a dual Bachelor’s degree in International Affairs and Environmental Science from the Josef Korbel School of International Studies at the University of Denver. He is fluent in English with professional proficiency (B2) in French.
Beyond logistics, Emmett has led technical feasibility studies for grid-level energy efficiency and renewable energy investments. He is responsible for rigorous quality assurance, partner coordination, and ensuring the timely delivery of outcomes in compliance with donor requirements. Emmett regularly spearheads secondary data analysis and stakeholder consultations for initiatives in agribusiness and climate-smart infrastructure. He holds a dual Bachelor’s degree in International Affairs and Environmental Science from the Josef Korbel School of International Studies at the University of Denver. He is fluent in English with professional proficiency (B2) in French.
Reda allah Benchama Assistant Project Manager & Research Analyst
Reda Allah Benchama work as an Assistant Project Manager and Research Analyst, having joined the LixCap team in December 2021. His core mandate encompasses both project execution and rigorous economic analysis, with a specialization in feasibility studies for temperature-controlled logistics (TCL) and agri-food value chains.
Since his arrival, Reda has played a key role in several cold chain initiatives, contributing to the design, assessment, and development of TCL facilities financed by the World Bank in Benin and Burundi. Furthermore, he has participated in strategic cold chain market evaluations in Mauritania and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).
Beyond logistics, Reda conducts in-depth market assessments for agricultural and food commodities on behalf of U.S. Cooperatives. He focuses on evaluating market potential, analyzing entry barriers, and defining go-to-market strategies across emerging and frontier markets. In his capacity as Assistant Project Manager, he has also supported the development of value chains in freshwater fisheries, aquaculture, and animal feed. Reda holds a Master’s degree in Economics and Finance and a Bachelor’s in Economics and Management from Hassan II University. He is fluent in French, English, and Arabic.
Since his arrival, Reda has played a key role in several cold chain initiatives, contributing to the design, assessment, and development of TCL facilities financed by the World Bank in Benin and Burundi. Furthermore, he has participated in strategic cold chain market evaluations in Mauritania and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).
Beyond logistics, Reda conducts in-depth market assessments for agricultural and food commodities on behalf of U.S. Cooperatives. He focuses on evaluating market potential, analyzing entry barriers, and defining go-to-market strategies across emerging and frontier markets. In his capacity as Assistant Project Manager, he has also supported the development of value chains in freshwater fisheries, aquaculture, and animal feed. Reda holds a Master’s degree in Economics and Finance and a Bachelor’s in Economics and Management from Hassan II University. He is fluent in French, English, and Arabic.
Bouchra Beyour Junior Analyst Interne, Finance & Operation
Bouchra Beyour is a finance and accounting expert specializing in financial management, operational accounting, and risk analysis. Holding a Master’s from ENCG Settat, she brings diverse, hands-on experience spanning corporate finance and international accounting environments.
Throughout her career as a Financial Accountant and Credit Analyst, Bouchra has honed her skills in financial reporting, tax compliance, and working capital management. She is highly proficient in managing both local and U.S.-based accounting structures. A strong advocate for digital finance, she harnesses tools like SAP, Power BI, and QuickBooks Online to transform complex financial data into actionable business insights.
A trilingual professional (Arabic, French, English), Bouchra is valued for her analytical mindset and cross-cultural communication skills. She is deeply committed to driving operational efficiency and ensuring financial clarity to support sustainable growth.
Throughout her career as a Financial Accountant and Credit Analyst, Bouchra has honed her skills in financial reporting, tax compliance, and working capital management. She is highly proficient in managing both local and U.S.-based accounting structures. A strong advocate for digital finance, she harnesses tools like SAP, Power BI, and QuickBooks Online to transform complex financial data into actionable business insights.
A trilingual professional (Arabic, French, English), Bouchra is valued for her analytical mindset and cross-cultural communication skills. She is deeply committed to driving operational efficiency and ensuring financial clarity to support sustainable growth.
Ayman Mabchour Assistant Project Manager
Ayman Mabchour joined LixCap in October 2021, he first served as a Program Officer, in USAID’s pilot inclusive development project in Morocco. His main role consists of designing, implementing, and evaluating governance and economic-growth activities. Currently Ayman serves as an Assistant Project Manager working on different projects related to agriculture and energy. Ayman is also operating as a database manager where he leads department integration, streamlining processes, and establishing a knowledge management database of the different projects that the company has worked on. Ayman holds a master’s degree in business assistance, and certified business consultant by the ILO, and APEFE. Ayman is fluent in French, English, Arabic, and can converse in Spanish, and German.
Sokayna El Allam Business Development Manager
Sokayna El Allam is a Senior Business Development and Partnerships Manager with over 14 years of experience spanning entrepreneurship, sustainability, and international development. Her global footprint covers Latin America, Sub-Saharan Africa, MENA, and Southeast Asia.
Since joining LixCap in October 2022, Sokayna has spearheaded the firm’s growth, overseeing the full lifecycle from strategic capture to execution. She orchestrates partner engagement and proposal development while supervising delivery to ensure rigorous work plans and high-caliber outputs. Driven by a philosophy of translating strategic intent into tangible outcomes, Sokayna possesses deep expertise in MSME support, blended finance, and agribusiness value chains. She effectively mobilizes DFIs, investors, and public sector stakeholders to turn complex regulatory contexts into actionable roadmaps.
Her portfolio at LixCap includes managing the Morocco Trade Representation for the California Walnut Commission and driving market initiatives for the North American Renderers Association and the USA Pulses Africa Trade Hub. Additionally, she supports the U.S. potato and peanut sectors through high-level consultations, retail analysis, and supply chain optimization, which effectively eliminate friction and unlock commercial potential.
Since joining LixCap in October 2022, Sokayna has spearheaded the firm’s growth, overseeing the full lifecycle from strategic capture to execution. She orchestrates partner engagement and proposal development while supervising delivery to ensure rigorous work plans and high-caliber outputs. Driven by a philosophy of translating strategic intent into tangible outcomes, Sokayna possesses deep expertise in MSME support, blended finance, and agribusiness value chains. She effectively mobilizes DFIs, investors, and public sector stakeholders to turn complex regulatory contexts into actionable roadmaps.
Her portfolio at LixCap includes managing the Morocco Trade Representation for the California Walnut Commission and driving market initiatives for the North American Renderers Association and the USA Pulses Africa Trade Hub. Additionally, she supports the U.S. potato and peanut sectors through high-level consultations, retail analysis, and supply chain optimization, which effectively eliminate friction and unlock commercial potential.
Anas Charroua Research Analyst
Anas Charroua is a Data Analyst & Assistant Project Manager specializing in agricultural trade policy, food logistics, and market development. He leads strategic market evaluations and value chain diagnostics across multiple regions, supporting USDA-backed initiatives and international organizations. He delivers export market assessments, demand forecasting, and consumer insights for organizations including the Almond Board of California, Pet Food Institute, and the American Peanut Council.
At LixCap, he conducts economic feasibility analyses and develops structured analytical frameworks for temperature-controlled logistics investments across emerging markets. He has contributed to temperature-controlled logistics (TCL) facility projects in North and West Africa and Asia, including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), Burundi, Benin, Liberia, and Cambodia.
Anas holds a master’s degree in economics and finance from Hassan II University. He is fluent in French, English, and Arabic.
At LixCap, he conducts economic feasibility analyses and develops structured analytical frameworks for temperature-controlled logistics investments across emerging markets. He has contributed to temperature-controlled logistics (TCL) facility projects in North and West Africa and Asia, including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), Burundi, Benin, Liberia, and Cambodia.
Anas holds a master’s degree in economics and finance from Hassan II University. He is fluent in French, English, and Arabic.
Meriem BoujeddainFinance & Investment Analyst
Meriem Boujeddain serves as a Finance and Investment Analyst at LixCap, specializing in advanced financial modeling and feasibility assessments for private-sector initiatives. Her expertise is particularly focused on agri-food value chains and temperature-controlled logistics. Since joining the firm in 2023, Meriem has been instrumental in delivering donor- and investor-backed mandates across Africa, Latin America, and Asia.
She constructs dynamic, multi-scenario financial models and evaluates investment readiness, translating complex data into high-quality pitch decks and information memoranda. Beyond analysis, Meriem designs practical toolkits that empower SMEs to build capacity and prepare for fundraising. She holds an MBA in Finance and a BBA with a dual concentration in Finance and Logistics from Al Akhawayn University, and is fluent in Arabic, French, and English.
She constructs dynamic, multi-scenario financial models and evaluates investment readiness, translating complex data into high-quality pitch decks and information memoranda. Beyond analysis, Meriem designs practical toolkits that empower SMEs to build capacity and prepare for fundraising. She holds an MBA in Finance and a BBA with a dual concentration in Finance and Logistics from Al Akhawayn University, and is fluent in Arabic, French, and English.
Brendan Harrison Business Development Manager
As Head of Business Development, Brendan spearheads the firm’s global expansion strategies. He cultivates key opportunities and orchestrates high-value proposals for initiatives funded by the USDA, major U.S. agencies, and multilateral bodies such as the World Bank and African Development Bank. Based in Barcelona, Brendan also provides expert counsel on trade policy, empowering exporters to overcome complex regulatory barriers and successfully enter markets throughout the EMEA region. He holds a Master of Global Affairs from the University of Toronto.
Shafique Khan Country Coordinator
Shafique Khan is a seasoned expert in innovative finance, economic development, and small-to-medium enterprise (SME) growth, with over 26 years of experience spanning banking, development finance, and impact investing. He has contributed to initiatives with leading institutions including the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Central Bank of Bangladesh (Bangladesh Bank), the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), and Oxfam, driving forward innovative financing solutions and rural enterprise development across Asia and Africa. Fluent in English and Bangla, Shafique brings deep expertise in climate and green finance, credit guarantees, cluster development, value chain financing, and business incubation. His work empowers entrepreneurs and SMEs through customized business development support, innovative financial solutions, and strategic stakeholder engagement.
