I’m Dr. Luria Founou, a passionate microbiologist and researcher who once believed that NGS Data Analysis and Bioinformatics were fields reserved for a select few. As a young researcher in Cameroon, I felt an intense desire to make a meaningful impact. Despite my potential for breakthroughs, I was hindered by limited resources, the pressure to publish in inaccessible journals, and a lack of specialized skills in bioinformatics. More than the resources, it was the feeling of isolation that weighed heavily on me; I struggled to find the guidance I desperately needed.

Doubt often crept in. Was I destined to fail because of my circumstances? Yet, I refused to let go of my passion for bioinformatics. With determination, resilience, and invaluable support from international mentors, I forged ahead. I was committed to not letting my dreams fade away.

However, I couldn’t ignore the brilliant colleagues who had given up under similar pressures. Africa is rich in talent, but it desperately needs a supportive ecosystem that allows scientists to access modern techniques, bioinformatics tools, and mentorship tailored to our unique challenges.

This realization led me to found D2Africa—more than just a platform, it’s a movement created by African scientists for African scientists. D2Africa is the guiding hand I longed for. It’s your opportunity to unlock your research potential, accelerate your career, and make the impact that Africa needs.