MATOU'S AFRICAN

Born in Ivory Coast, West Africa, Ramata, affectionately known as "Matou" aspired to live the American dream at eight years old when she learned how to braid hair. Living with her father's big brother, Matou became a very good braider and had perfected the art at age 14. Her uncle constantly told her that braiding hair did not make for a very bright future, but in the years to come, Matou was able to support her entire family... Shortly, thereafter, she became the number one hair braider in her community. Her uncle later apologized and told her how proud he was of her. In later years, Matou began to expand her horizons with the desire to become the ultimate business woman. She began investing in and selling apparel. She traveled to Nigeria, Ghana, Burkina and Lome importing and exporting goods to prosper financially, continuing to take care of her family. She often wondered what it would be like to live in a country with a capitalist class structure where the sky was the limit if you..

Also known as: Matou

Primary location: Camden United States