Cheikh Mohamed Elkarachi is a young entrepreneur and the visionary leader behind Elkarachi Holdings. He is the second generation to run the family business Rim Foam and Maucit. Their family office is the largest and leading in North West Africa, specializing in the production of polyurethane foam, mattresses and carpets. Based in Mauritania, Cheikh has transformed his family business into an industry leader, with products present in nearly every Mauritanian household. 

Cheikh is a graduate of Georgia State University and holds an associate’s degree in Political Science and Government and a bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Affairs. This academic foundation has given him a nuanced understanding of global markets and the intricacies of international business dynamics.

Cheikh is an Obama Foundation Africa Leader for 2024-2025, proudly representing Mauritania as the sole participant ever selected from the country in the program’s history. He is part of a highly selective group of 34 visionary changemakers from across the continent. These leaders are trained in President Obama’s values-based leadership methodology, emphasizing integrity, innovation, and community-driven solutions to address pressing global and local challenges.

Cheikh is deeply passionate about education, has a keen interest in diplomacy and can be seen running marathons and taking on good challenges.

He has lived in 4 countries and is fluent in Arabic, French and English.