1-What inspired the creation of this startup?

Chefaa was born from a personal experience. When CEO Doaa Aref was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, she faced firsthand the challenges of managing chronic medication. This struggle made her realize the urgent need for a digital solution that ensures easy access to medication. She became patient zero, and that experience inspired the creation of Chefaa to help millions facing similar challenges.

2-What challenges did you encounter when you started?

E-pharmacy was not widely known or accepted by both pharmacies and users. Many pharmacies were hesitant to adopt digital solutions, and customers were unfamiliar with the convenience and reliability of online medication ordering. Chefaa had to invest time and effort in educating the market, building trust, and proving the value of digital transformation in healthcare. It was a long journey to shift mindsets and establish credibility.

3-Who helped you the most in your journey?

Flat6Labs was our first believer, providing not just financial support but also mentorship, guidance, and networking opportunities. They gave us the confidence and resources to navigate the early challenges of the business. Beyond funding, their support helped us refine our business model, scale efficiently, and connect with key players in the startup ecosystem. Their impact on Chefaa's journey has been invaluable.

4-Did you have a mentor to guide you throughout your entrepreneurial journey?

Doaa Aref had prior entrepreneurial experience with a successful exit, but she acknowledges that mentorship played a crucial role in Chefaa’s growth. The mentorship provided by Flat6Labs in the early days helped shape strategic decisions, refine operations, and avoid common pitfalls. Experienced mentors offered valuable insights, guidance, and motivation, making a significant difference in our journey.

5-What was the first major milestone for the company?

Reaching our first 100 patients was a major validation of our platform’s value, proving that there was real demand for our solution. Soon after, closing our first funding round became another significant milestone, allowing us to expand operations and enhance our services. These early achievements laid the foundation for Chefaa’s growth, reinforcing our mission and helping us scale to serve more patients.

6-Why did you choose to attend Techne Summit, and how has it impacted your journey?

Techne Summit is known for fostering valuable connections and enriching the startup ecosystem. Attending the event provided us with opportunities to network with investors, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs. The insights, collaborations, and exposure we gained have contributed significantly to our growth. Engaging with the ecosystem at Techne has helped us refine our vision and accelerate our journey.

7-If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?

Embrace challenges with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Fear of the unknown should never hold you back—adapt, learn faster, and stay curious. Most importantly, always fall in love with the problem you are solving, not just the solution. This mindset will keep you resilient and innovative, no matter how many obstacles come your way.