Nada Ghammem, a Tunisian entrepreneur, has been recognized with the ARLEM prize for young local entrepreneurship in the Mediterranean region. She received the award on October 27, 2026, in Tirana, Albania, for her innovative company Bionic Soul, which specializes in developing advanced bionic prosthetics. The ARLEM prize is a prestigious recognition that highlights Ghammem's achievements in the field of technological entrepreneurship.

Ghammem's journey to becoming a successful entrepreneur began with her studies in mechanical engineering at the Higher Institute of Technological Studies in Sousse, Tunisia. She later developed an interest in designing devices that could improve the mobility of amputees. Her project evolved to incorporate artificial intelligence and machine learning, enabling her to create customized prosthetics that cater to the specific needs of users.

In 2022, Ghammem founded Bionic Soul, which has since developed several solutions for individuals with lower limb amputations. The company's product range includes mechanical prosthetics, such as ErgoLeg, and more advanced bionic prosthetics, like BioniLeg, which integrates sensors and AI algorithms to adapt to the user's movements. Bionic Soul also offers 3D-printed carbon fiber prosthetic feet and intelligent bionic knees.

The ARLEM prize is not the first recognition Ghammem has received for her work. In 2023, she was awarded the Orange Social Entrepreneur Prize, which came with a €20,000 grant. This recognition highlights Ghammem's commitment to making advanced prosthetics more accessible to users, particularly in Tunisia and the wider Mediterranean region.

Ghammem's achievements demonstrate the potential of technological entrepreneurship in Tunisia. Her journey showcases how technical skills acquired through education can be applied to innovative projects that address real-world challenges. The support of institutions, such as the Caisse des dépôts et consignations (CDC) in Tunisia, has also played a crucial role in Ghammem's success.

The impact of Bionic Soul's work extends beyond Tunisia, with the company's innovative approach to prosthetics having the potential to benefit users across the Mediterranean region. By developing prosthetics locally, Bionic Soul aims to reduce costs and increase accessibility, making it easier for users to access the care they need.

As Bionic Soul continues to grow and develop, Ghammem faces new challenges, including demonstrating the commercial and clinical effectiveness of her company's solutions. Nevertheless, her achievements to date serve as a testament to the power of innovation and entrepreneurship in addressing pressing social and healthcare challenges.

Key points

  • Nada Ghammem's company Bionic Soul develops advanced bionic prosthetics to improve the mobility of amputees.
  • Ghammem received the ARLEM prize for young local entrepreneurship in the Mediterranean region on October 27, 2026.
  • Bionic Soul's innovative approach to prosthetics aims to increase accessibility and reduce costs for users in Tunisia and beyond.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.