Marie-Josée Natabou Ahounou is a visionary and committed Beninese cultural entrepreneur whose work is profoundly transforming the fashion landscape in Benin. In 2015, she founded MN Benin, an events company that gave rise to Benin Fashion Week, an international fashion festival that brings together designers from around the world each year. She also co-directs Angels Models Management, a modeling agency that contributes to the professionalization of the sector and the emergence of new talent internationally. She is preparing for December 2025 the launch of her clothing and accessories brand "ReNé", based on recycled and vintage materials. Beyond fashion, Marie-Josée is a social leader. She chairs the Women's Network for Sustainable Development and Peace in Benin (REFDDP-BENIN), an organization that advocates for human rights, good governance, and the empowerment of women and youth.