BOARD OF DIRECTORS

My name is Céphas Catraye. I was born and raised in Cotonou Benin / West Africa. I came to study in Omaha Nebraska where I also met my wife in April 2013. I went to UNO for a few months then eventually transferred to Metropolitan Community College where I studied and graduated in Design Interactivity and Media Arts. During that timeframe, I had the opportunity to work as a full time cook in various restaurants in Omaha.

Today, I run a small website and graphic design business. I’m also president and founder of Advance Benin. My wife Amanda Catraye and I have 2 kids. A boy and girl. When I’m not working, I spend my time creating graphics for athleisure apparel, filming cooking videos, playing video games and fishing with my family.

My name is Amanda Catraye. I am the “copilot” and Secretary of Advance Benin. I grew up just outside of Central City, NE on a small lake with my 2 younger brothers. I have a passion for learning and teaching children, so it feels fitting that God gave us the vision to help the vulnerable children in Benin during our first family trip in 2019. I have worked as a nanny, daycare teacher and now I am a mother to our 2 beautiful young children. I work full-time for an energy company in Omaha and stay active in our church and community. In my free time I enjoy playing outside with my kids and I am learning to speak French in order to better communicate with our students and staff in Benin. While I am very proud to be a Nebraskan, born and raised, I see how God has been preparing me for this ministry my whole life. I thank God for using me in such a unique way I could never have imagined!

My name is Donatien Z. CODJIA. I was born in Ouidah, Benin. Holder of a Baccalaureate and a Professional License in Applied Economics, I work in several private secondary schools where I teach Mathematics and Economic and Social Sciences. This allows me to be in contact with the realities of the school environment. Of course, going to school does not automatically lead to a better future, but not going deprives us of enormous opportunities. This is why I have adopted the vision of Advance Benin, where I am very honored to work for the educational development in better conditions of many children in disadvantaged situations.

My name is Orphelya ZODJIN. I was born in Cotonou, Benin, and I hold a bachelor’s degree in Project Management. From a very young age, I have felt a deep connection to children, as they represent innocent lives that deserve protection, care, and love.

Over time, I have encountered many children in my community who lacked any form of support, some left to survive on the streets, others forced into labor under pressure or violence. These realities deeply affected me and strengthened my determination to take action, support vulnerable children, and fight against these injustices.

As a result, I have volunteered with several organizations dedicated to child welfare and regularly participate in solidarity initiatives, including making donations to support children during holiday periods and contributing to various social causes.

My involvement with Advance Benin reflects my desire to apply my project management skills while actively contributing to creating a better future for children. Knowing that, in my own way, I can help positively change a child’s life is what motivates me and drives my full commitment to this organization.