Organic Farmer and Co-Founder

ASTOU DIOR SECK

Astou Dior Seck, hailing from Senegal, is an organic farmer, business woman and women’s rights activist. Her global travels have made her a citizen of the world. She received degrees in finance and luxury goods and services during her 15 years in the U.S. and Europe, and then returned home to help uplift the women in her country and elevate the richness of the local culture.

In Senegal, Astou started an organic ecological farm “Roksen”, making it her mission to promote sustainable agricultural activity in her country. Astou has acted as a wellness advocate for women in her community, advising on the best natural ingredients for inside and out, including various hair and skin care concerns.

In 2011, she led a campaign in Senegal, “Nuul Kuuk” to raise awareness of the damage of skin bleaching creams. The campaign encouraged women to embrace the beauty of their natural skin tone and avoid the potential health and medical risks of using lightening products.

Also, in 2011, Astou created “Salon Du Bein Etre”, an annual wellness and beauty conference in West Africa, which brings together alternative healers, yogis, farmers, nutritionists, fitness gurus and other health specialists and brands. The event, the first of its kind in the region, provides a space for wellness entrepreneurs and artisans to connect with the community. 

Astou continues to collaborate with the Senegalese government to encourage local women entrepreneurs to rise above a survival economy, while incorporating training and advocacy, including literacy programs.  She’s spearheading CurlNation's development projects in Senegal and other areas globally.