Trace, a leading multimedia and digital platform, has appointed Gwladys Watrin as the Managing Director of Trace Academia and Trace Rwanda. This strategic move aims to bolster the company’s presence in the educational sector and broaden its impact in Rwanda.
Watrin, who holds dual citizenship in France and Rwanda, brings with her over 15 years of extensive experience in international finance. Notably, she played a pivotal role in establishing and promoting the Kigali International Financial Center (KIFC) as a prominent pan-African business and financial hub.
Based in Kigali, Watrin will oversee the initial expansion of Trace Academia, an e-learning platform spanning across Africa, Europe, the Indian Ocean, Caribbean, and Brazil. Additionally, she will spearhead Trace Rwanda, a newly formed division focused on amplifying Trace’s involvement in Rwanda’s creative industries.
Olivier Laouchez, Trace Chairman and Co-founder, expressed enthusiasm about Watrin’s appointment, highlighting her expertise in finance and project management. Laouchez stated, “We are thrilled to welcome Gwladys to Trace. Alongside her strong financial background, her passion and drive align well with Trace’s mission to entertain and empower our audience.”
Watrin, under her pseudonym “X,” expressed her gratitude for the appointment, stating, “I am incredibly honored to lead Trace Academia! Excited to empower learners worldwide, starting from Rwanda!”
In 2023, Rwanda hosted the prestigious Trace Awards at BK Arena on October 21, marking the first time the event took place on the African continent. Trace, established in 2003, is a prominent multimedia and digital platform dedicated to Afro-Urban music, cultures, and the success of young people and artists. With a global reach of 350 million fans across 180 countries, Trace continues to be a significant player in the entertainment industry.
About Trace Academia:
Trace Academia, a division of Trace, offers a free mobile app featuring courses and certificates focused on jobs, entrepreneurship, and soft skills. The platform particularly aims to empower young people, with a strong emphasis on young women. In addition to its digital offerings, Trace Academia has launched in-person learning programs and collaborates with various partners to provide learners with opportunities to kickstart their careers.