Wendel Afonso

I am a venture builder and science-to-market entrepreneur with 20+ years of experience translating science and technology into consumer products that improve people’s and babies lives.

I grew up in a startup environment in a developing country, where limited resources demanded resourcefulness, resilience, and a relentless problem-solving mindset. Over the past two decades, I have led technology-driven companies through the full journey from lab-scale innovation to scale-up, fundraising, revenue generation, and market expansion.

My work has included dozens of prototypes and clinical trials and the launch of more than 30 innovative products, supported by approximately 30 scientific publications and five patents. I am the founder of an infant nutrition company that became the second-fastest-growing business in its country, achieving 179% CAGR while competing against some of the world’s largest multinational corporations.

I hold an MBA from MIT Sloan School of Management and am a pharmacist with an MSc in Food Science and Technology from UFMG. My career sits at the intersection of science, entrepreneurship, and consumer innovation, with a particular focus on turning complex scientific challenges into products that reach real people.

I am drawn to mission-driven organizations where science and technology can create meaningful impact. I am fascinated by technology, but passionate about people!