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Mar 2025
30m 35s

#24-The Reality of Social Entrepreneursh...

Nadine Zidani
About this episode

Welcome to another episode of Impact Talk! In this inspiring episode, we sat down with Nivine Hachem, Co-Founder and CEO of Paltic, a Lebanon-based pioneering social enterprise tackling plastic waste in the MENA region through sustainable innovation. By transforming discarded plastics into eco-friendly panels, Paltic is reshaping the way we think about waste, design, and circular economies.

Nivine shares her journey from corporate finance to social entrepreneurship, highlighting the pivotal moments that led her to take the leap. From the challenges of having a sustainability-focused business in Lebanon to Paltic’s expansion to the UAE, she offers deep insights into resilience, impact investing, and the role of aesthetics in sustainable products.

In this episode, you’ll gain insights on:

  • Nivine’s journey from corporate finance to founding a social enterprise with her business partner Hala Al-Naamani.
  • How Paltic transforms plastic waste into innovative construction materials with their Eco-Friendly Panels.
  • The challenges faced introducing Paltic’s Eco-Friendly panels to the public and the role of awareness in changing consumer mindset
  • The importance of aesthetics and design in sustainable products to change consumer perceptions.
  • The challenges of having a sustainability-driven business in Lebanon and the shift to the UAE.
  • Practical tips to start your social enterprise in the Middle East.

Want to see the faces behind the voices? You can watch this episode on YouTube.

About Our Guest:

Nivine Hachem, Co-Founder and CEO of Paltic, a Lebanon-based social enterprise tackling plastic waste in the MENA region through sustainable innovation. Nivine began her professional journey in auditing and financial planning at global firms before her transition into social entrepreneurship, where she now drives environmental impact through innovative solutions.Recently recognized as the Most Innovative Climate Tech CEO of 2024, Nivine is a true advocate for sustainability. Through education, advocacy, and impactful business solutions, she’s inspiring a shift towards a more sustainable future.

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