Meriam Bessa’s entrepreneurial journey took an unexpected turn after losing a significant $600,000 contract with L’Oreal. This setback led her to launch Hypeo AI, an innovative platform for automating influencer marketing, inspired by the need for efficiency in this fast-growing industry. 2023 marked a turning point for Bessa and her team as they witnessed the potential of AI-powered solutions. 2024 saw the company’s first major success: Kenza AI, the world’s first AI influencer platform, won the prestigious Miss AI prize. This achievement opened doors for Hypeo AI as L’Oreal itself sought to collaborate with their AI influencers. The startup leverages AI to simplify the complex process of influencer marketing, automating everything from campaign briefing and selection of creators to managing content approvals and real-time KPI tracking. This platform aims to revolutionize the industry by providing a seamless experience for both brands seeking impactful campaigns and creators looking for opportunities. Hypeo AI’s mission goes beyond automation; they aim to address market inefficiencies in Africa by expanding their footprint across various regions including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Senegal, and the Ivory Coast. Bessa’s entrepreneurial spirit and experience have led to a unique trajectory. She went from managing a team at L’Atelier Digital to building Hypeo AI, an African-owned platform addressing the global influencer market’s evolving needs. The company recently secured funding from Renew Capital, Digital Africa, and Madica Ventures, further validating their impact in the region.