About NEKST
We connect global investors with trusted local partners to trade essential commodities like coffee, maize, and rice in short, repeatable cycles. Our model combines global capital, local expertise, and Islamic finance principles, ensuring every trade generates both financial return and social impact.
Through the NEKST App, buyers and managers access real-time updates, secure contracts, and transparent profit-sharing. With operations in Uganda, Türkiye, and Senegal, NEKST is building a scalable platform for ethical commodity trading that delivers purpose and prosperity.
Mission
To deliver profitable, Shariah-compliant trade opportunities by facilitating tangible commodity cycles that empower farmers, strengthen local economies, and create lasting social impact for communities.
Vision
To become a global leader in ethical commodity trading, bridging capital and communities through a transparent, impactful, and sustainable trade model.
Our Core Values
Profitability
Strong, short-cycle returns through asset-backed trading.
Ethics
100% Shariah-aligned operations under Wakalah (agency) contracts.
Sustainability
Commitment to environmental preservation and responsible farming.
Impact
For ethical buyers, one-third of profits is dedicated to NGOs that support food, education, and dignity.
Transparency
Full traceability from purchase to sale, supported by real-time tracking.
Meet the Team NEKST
Salim Refas
CEO & Co-Founder
18+ years of experience in finance, trade, and industrial ventures across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Founder of several waqf transactions in Africa since 2020, and Chair of an NGO active in Africa and Asia.
Julien Drolon
CIO & Co-Founder
20+ years in international fundraising and business matchmaking. Winner of the Global Islamic Economy Award (2018) and the Best Muslim Investment Award (2019). Host of the LEGACY Podcast in Southeast Asia.
Karim Hamdi
CCO & Co-Founder
Finance and business development professional with experience in Saudi Arabia’s energy, mobility, and infrastructure projects. Co-founder of a B2B SaaS tech company.
Dr. Abrar Zafar
CTO & Co-Founder
20+ years leading AI-driven transformations, ERP implementations, and compliance projects at Johnson & Johnson, Baxter Healthcare, and UN World Food Programme. Holds a PhD in Supply Chain Innovation.
Leadership & Advisors
Dr. Mohamed Hassan Abbas
Head of Governance & Head of Asia
PhD in Islamic Finance. 8 years of experience in compliance and Islamic microfinance.
Logane Wegnez
Legal Director
Lawyer based in Luxembourg. Established multiple awqaf structures in Africa. Specialist in ethical finance.
Idham Alwi
Business Development Manager
Committed professional with a strong reputation in Uganda. Demonstrated managerial skills through leadership roles at Swiha Charity and agricultural development projects.
Dr. Umar Anule
Head of Uganda Operations
CEO of Swiha Investment. Leads agricultural and farming projects with strong community engagement.
Ibrahima Sarr
Head of Senegal Operations
CEO of Kayit Eco. Manages a 15-member team in sustainable agriculture.
Dahir Abdul Nasser
Commodity Manager Türkiye
CEO of SEV Company. Oversees commodity operations in Türkiye.
Dr. Shah Fahad
Shariah Advisor
Specialist in Islamic finance and Shariah compliance.
Mohamed El Atfi
Senior Counsel
Legal professional providing counsel on governance and contractual matters.
Abdouramane Diallo
International Trade Expert
Experienced in international trade and commodity markets.