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Tag: Founder and CEO

  • Fidelity Bank Wins ‘Most Improved Commercial Bank’ at Inaugural Nairametrics Capital Market Choice Awards

    Fidelity Bank Wins ‘Most Improved Commercial Bank’ at Inaugural Nairametrics Capital Market Choice Awards

    For its outstanding financial performance and strategic growth, Fidelity Bank Plc, a leading tier-one financial institution, has been honoured with the Most Improved Commercial Bank of the Year award at the inaugural Nairametrics Capital Market Choice Awards.

    Organized by Nigeria’s premier financial media platform, Nairametrics, the awards were launched to recognize individuals, institutions, and policy reforms that have significantly shaped Nigeria’s capital markets. The initiative seeks to spotlight excellence in areas such as regulatory leadership, corporate governance, investment performance, and financial innovation.

    “This award is a testament to the tremendous work we are doing at Fidelity Bank—not only in delivering superior service to our customers, but also in driving economic growth and creating sustainable value for all stakeholders,” said an elated Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc. “We are deeply grateful for this recognition and remain committed to helping individuals grow, businesses thrive, and economies prosper.”

    The awards ceremony, held on Friday, May 23, 2025, at the Banquet Hall of the Civic Center in Lagos, drew an esteemed audience, including Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, as well as industry leaders, regulators, media executives, and capital market stakeholders.

    Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), underscored the need for continuous evolution in financial markets. “Markets must become more efficient, secure, and innovative to fulfill their promise. In Nigeria, we are committed to building a resilient, inclusive, transparent, and future-ready capital market,” he stated.

    Ugo Obi-Chukwu, Founder and CEO of Nairametrics, shared the vision behind the awards, saying, “The Capital Market Choice Awards is our way of reinforcing the core values that sustain a healthy capital ecosystem—trust, performance, and progress.”

    Fidelity Bank’s recognition comes on the heels of a stellar 2024 financial year. The bank posted an exceptional 210% growth in Profit Before Tax (PBT), reaching ₦385.2 billion—the largest year-on-year PBT increase recorded in the Nigerian banking industry for the year.

    Further demonstrating its leadership, Fidelity Bank spearheaded the Central Bank of Nigeria’s recapitalization drive with a highly successful Public Offer and Rights Issue, which were oversubscribed by 237.9% and 137.7% respectively—solidifying investor confidence in the bank’s strategic direction.

    Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

    The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

  • AVCA’S Fifth VC Summit Spotlights Resilience, Scale, and Bankability as Critical Levers to Propel Africa’s VC Ecosystem

    AVCA’S Fifth VC Summit Spotlights Resilience, Scale, and Bankability as Critical Levers to Propel Africa’s VC Ecosystem

    The African Private Capital Association (AVCA) hosted its fifth Venture Capital (VC) Summit yesterday. The summit forms part of the industry association’s 21st Annual AVCA Conference week, held in Lagos until 2 May. The global gathering brings early-stage and venture capital investors, corporate venture arms, founders, entrepreneurs, and accelerators together to discuss new trends and plot the rise of Africa’s venture capital landscape.

    Abi Mustapha-Maduakor, CEO of AVCA, opened the Summit by acknowledging the strategic importance of Nigeria’s entrepreneurial landscape: “Hosting the Summit in Nigeria is significant because this country has long been at the heart of Africa’s entrepreneurial evolution. Despite economic headwinds, we’ve witnessed innovation and resilience in the early-stage ecosystem. It is no coincidence that in 2024, Nigeria produced one of the continent’s newest unicorns.”

    Tope Awotona, Founder and CEO of Calendly, the US$3bn tech unicorn, and Abi Mustapha-Maduakor, CEO of AVCA, kicked off the summit with a keynote fireside chat. Describing his remarkable entrepreneurial journey, Awotona said: “I knew scheduling wasn’t just a productivity tax—it was a tax on important business outcomes like revenue. We didn’t invent online scheduling but made it accessible to more people through three key innovations: our freemium pricing model, our viral distribution method, and our data-driven product improvements.”

    The conversation affirmed the power of innovation, enabling expansion to international markets and the benefits of experimentation with price, distribution, and product. Awotona said: “When scheduling went virtual, more users meant more data could help to improve the product and help to become the best on the market.” 

    Following the sentiments of Calendly’s Founder and CEO, a panel titled Unlocking Scale: The Growth-Stage Challenge with Leo Batalov, Partner, Global Co-Head of Emerging Growth Companies and Venture Capital, DLA Piper, and Brian Waswani Odhiambo, Partner, Novastar Ventures, examined how to bridge the gap for businesses moving from early stage development to accessing capital in their growth stage, and highlighted the urgency of building strong local investor ecosystems.

    Outlining the roles of founders and venture capital investors in supporting the long-term sustainability of Africa’s burgeoning tech ecosystem, Dr Omobola Johnson, Senior Partner, TLcom Capital, said: “We need to help founders understand that at the growth stage, they’re competing for global capital, not just local. Founders must recognise the competition and make their businesses appealing to international investors…This makes the African market more scalable, bankable, and investable.”

    The summit proceeded with a headline session, entitled Titans of Industry: Bold Moves, featuring Tosin Eniolorunda, Group CEO of Moniepoint, who underscored the merits of building a valuable company and building a robust team. He said, “If you have an organisation that is growing, investors will be interested; so we focused early on establishing good fundamentals—topline growth, profitability, EBITDA margins, return on equity. The more important goal is building a valuable company with healthy bottom lines. This opens up multiple opportunities, whether through Nigeria’s evolving stock exchange or large buyouts from sovereign wealth funds.”

    Other panels convened capital allocators – representing corporate, commercial, and development-focused interests – to share their perspectives on a maturing venture capital ecosystem in Africa. The competitive fundraising environment provided a backdrop to outline how Limited Partners (LPs) select where to invest, assess risk, evaluate opportunity, and determine priorities.

    In a panel entitled Venture Debt – Africa’s Missing Piece? speakers including Rosanne Whalley, Chief Executive Officer, AHL Ventures Partners, Roeland Donckers, Managing Partner, iungo capital, and moderator Tage Kene-Okafor, Africa reporter at TechCrunch, discussed the role of venture debt products as a complement to equity funding, providing bridge capital to accelerate company growth. 

    According to AVCA’s latest report, venture debt showed impressive resilience in 2024, with 60 deals totalling US$1.0bn—a 3% increase year-on-year. While representing just 12% of total deal volume, venture debt accounted for 37% of total capital deployed, with median deal sizes reaching US$7.5mn, nearly three times larger than equity-based transactions.

    The session underscored the need for African investors to know when to deploy these tools and the importance of raising awareness amongst founders of these financing alternatives. Biola Alabi, Venture Partner, Delta40, noted that “there is a critical gap in financial literacy around debt financing in our ecosystem. Many founders and even some GPs don’t fully understand what debt investors require in terms of traction and stability. We need to help restructure existing debt and educate founders on how venture debt can complement equity to extend runway and avoid dilution, particularly for businesses with predictable revenue streams.”

  • Onafriq Partners with Circle to power remittances and cross-border payments with USDC

    Onafriq Partners with Circle to power remittances and cross-border payments with USDC

    Onafriq, Africa’s largest payments gateway, and Circle, stablecoin market leader and issuer of USDC, today announced their strategic partnership aimed at transforming cross-border payments and digital financial services. This collaboration marks a significant step towards compliantly leveraging stablecoins and blockchain infrastructure to boost Onafriq’s payment network, positioning it at the forefront of the digital payment’s revolution for real-world financial applications.

    Currently, over 80 percent of intra-African payments are routed through correspondent banks outside the continent and settled in foreign currencies such as the US dollar or Euro. This results in a staggering US$5 billion in transaction fees annually and undermines economic integration efforts. Onafriq and Circle are working together to change this paradigm by piloting the use of USDC-powered settlement solutions into Onafriq’s network, which connects over 500 wallets and 200 million bank accounts in more than 40 African markets.

    Onafriq’s founder and CEO, Dare Okoudjou, said: “Our partnership with Circle is an important milestone, reinforcing Onafriq’s commitment to harnessing technology to remove complexity from cross-border payments. By integrating USDC, we aim to simplify financial transactions for institutions and individuals, reduce costs, and strengthen trust. This collaboration underscores our vision to democratise access to payments and drive financial inclusion across the globe. We’re not just envisioning the future of payments – we’re actively building it.”

    Miriam Kiwan, Vice President, Middle East & Africa at Circle, said: “The emerging markets that Onafriq serves hold tremendous potential for digital asset innovation, particularly in the adoption of stablecoins for cross-border payments. Our partnership with Onafriq aligns perfectly with Circle’s mission to promote financial inclusion and improve efficiency in areas where traditional banking has often been costly and inaccessible. Together, we aim to transform how money moves across borders, offering secure and transparent digital payment rails that enhance economic empowerment and connectivity.”

    This collaboration is a major step toward a more inclusive and self-reliant pan-African financial system. It signals a new phase in the modernisation of African payment rails – one where blockchain technology is applied responsibly, in lockstep with regulators and financial institutions, to build a faster, more efficient, and economically empowering future for the continent.

  • Lagos hosts 21st Annual AVCA Conference and VC Summit to chart the future of private capital in Africa

    Lagos hosts 21st Annual AVCA Conference and VC Summit to chart the future of private capital in Africa

    …Returning to Nigeria after 11 years, the conference highlights the country’s position as a leading hub for investment, securing US$3bn in private capital deals from 2020-2024. 

     The 21st Annual AVCA Conference and VC Summit, the world’s largest Africa-focused private capital gathering, has kicked off in Nigeria. The anticipated annual gathering takes place at the Lagos Continental Hotel from 28 April to 2 May 2025. Themed Bold Moves: Powering 10x in Africa, the conference convenes business leaders, policymakers and private capital allocators from all around the world to exchange strategies, collaborate and unlock opportunities to stimulate returns for Africa’s development.

    The conference highlights private capital as a strategic enabler of innovation, economic growth and industrialisation. The convening returns to Nigeria after 11 years and demonstrates the opportunity to diversify African economies, leverage strategic sectors, and showcase the thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Nigeria and beyond. Nigeria ranks first in West Africa by deal volume (66%) and value (52%), securing US$3bn in reported private capital deals from 2020-2024, according to AVCA research.

    The 21st Annual AVCA Conference provides a platform to forge progressive partnerships, frame action-oriented discussions, and mobilise new and deep pools of capital from development finance institutions, sovereign wealth funds, pension funds, insurers, and other capital allocators. The conference is a key forum to focus investor activity and reinforces the role of private capital in driving sustainable growth, alongside other global development-focused proceedings, including Financing for Development in Seville, the United Nations General Assembly, and G20 in South Africa later this year.

    Speakers at AVCA’s conference include Dr Jumoke Oduwole MFR, Honourable Minister, Minister of Industry, Trade & Investment, Nigeria; Aliko Dangote GCON, Founder and CEO of Dangote Industries; Olusola Lawson, Co-Managing Director, African Infrastructure Investment Managers (AIIM),  Tope Awotona, Founder and CEO, Calendly; Benson Adenuga, Head of Office and  Coverage Director, Nigeria, British International Investment (BII); Danladi Verheijen, Co-Founder/CEO, Verod Capital Management; Tope Lawani, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Helios Investment Partners, among others.

    The conference sessions incorporate strategies from industry experts across leading organisations, such as the African Development Bank (AfDB), Africa50, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), FMO, the Dutch entrepreneurial development bank, International Finance Corporation (IFC), Norfund, Public Investment Corporation (PIC), and Rwanda Finance.

    Abi Mustapha-Maduakor, CEO, AVCA, said: “This conference comes at a pivotal time for Nigeria, and it is significant that we are returning to Lagos, a vibrant commercial hub, after 11 years. Despite the macroeconomic headwinds that have rocked global financial markets, Africa has demonstrated resilience and innovation, with Nigeria in particular, leading the continent in the venture landscape. Amid shifting global dynamics, it is more important than ever that capital allocators, fund managers, policymakers, business leaders and industry stakeholders come together to explore how private capital can deliver performance and impact.”

    Temi Popoola, Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Exchange Group, stated “As Nigeria works to deepen its capital markets and drive inclusive economic growth, the role of both local and international capital providers has never been more critical. This conference underscores the critical synergy between public and private markets, with capital markets serving as a vital bridge for unlocking value and providing structured exits for private capital. We commend AVCA’s convening power in fostering dialogue, strengthening market linkages, and advancing a shared vision for sustainable economic development across Nigeria.”

    Background

    • The conference kicked off with a press briefing on 28 April 2025. Photos and Video highlights are linked here.
    • The 2025 conference follows the appointment of Anna Evi-Parker to AVCA’s senior leadership team as Regional Head, West Africa, following AVCA’s strategic merger with PEVCA (here)
    • Previous AVCA conferences have been held in cities including Johannesburg, Abidjan, Accra, Addis Ababa, Cairo, Cape Town, Dakar, London, Marrakech, Nairobi, and Tunis.
    • The conference stimulates the evolving global dialogue on private capital mobilisation, impact investment, and development finance for Africa.
  • Driving Digital Transformation in Emerging Economies Through Media, Fintech & EdTech

    Driving Digital Transformation in Emerging Economies Through Media, Fintech & EdTech

    Aleph Group, a leading global enabler of digital advertising, fintech services and education technology, proudly marks its 20th anniversary with the launch of a bold company manifesto and video campaign, celebrating two decades of innovation, growth, and its mission to make the digital world more accessible for everyone.

    From its humble beginnings in Miami in 2005 to becoming a global leader in the digital advertising ecosystem, Aleph has consistently challenged the status quo, breaking down barriers and creating opportunities in over 150+ markets worldwide, with 60+ exclusive partnerships, serving more than 26,000 advertisers globally and 1500+ employees worldwide.

    Aleph’s success has been fuelled by its commitment to creating lasting value, extending the reach of digital advertising and making a difference in emerging markets. “When we started, we didn’t dream of being part of the digital world; we dreamed of making it possible for everyone to be part of the digital world,” reads the manifesto. This philosophy has driven Aleph’s evolution from a small startup to a global powerhouse, playing a pivotal role in connecting businesses, brands, and consumers through digital platforms.

    “Our collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital growth,” said Stanislaus Martins, Managing Director for West Africa at Aleph.

    “With Aleph’s expanded partnership with Pinterest and TikTok, we can now offer brands in Nigeria access to one of the world’s leading visual discovery and social media platforms, helping them reach millions of users passionate about discovering new ideas. These partnerships unlock new opportunities for Nigerian advertisers to connect with engaged audiences, driving meaningful engagement and business growth. Together, we’re excited to help businesses in Nigeria thrive in the digital age,” added Martins.

    A Bold Vision for the Future: To commemorate its 20th anniversary, Aleph is unveiling a corporate manifesto video featuring employees from around the globe. The campaign captures Aleph’s unique philosophy: “At Aleph, there’s no room for small dreams. That’s why big things happen.” The video highlights the company’s journey and commitment to empowering businesses and individuals by providing access to the tools and platforms they need to thrive in the digital economy.

    How Big is Your World? As part of the celebration, Aleph invites the world to reflect on its own digital ambitions through the campaign tagline, “How Big Is Your World?” The campaign encourages businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals to dream bigger and explore the limitless possibilities of the digital era.  Aleph’s story is not just one of business success but of a vision realised through collaboration and innovation. “Our success has always been about more than growth,” says Gaston Taratuta, Founder and CEO of Aleph. “It’s been about helping others grow, from our partners and clients to the communities we serve.”

    Join Aleph in celebrating 20 years of making the digital world more accessible. We invite you to watch the manifesto video and discover how Aleph is shaping the future of the digital economies.

  • LisBon to Launch Public Testing on November 18, Revolutionizing Informal Transport, Logistics, and Trade

    LisBon to Launch Public Testing on November 18, Revolutionizing Informal Transport, Logistics, and Trade

    …partners with DelFest 2024

    LisBon, a visionary tech startup, will launch its public testing phase on November 18, 2024, and revolutionize informal transport, logistics, and trade. The testing will take place in Asaba, Warri, and Abraka in Delta State, Nigeria.
    The company aims to revolutionize the global informal transport, logistics, and trade sectors, beginning in Nigeria, with a vision to unify Africa into one interconnected market as it expands worldwide.

    LisBon is more than just an e-hailing app—it’s a secure, rewarding ecosystem where users and drivers Earnearn for Life. Recognized by industry analysts as one of the most secure and rewarding transport systems in the world, Lisbon operated with only verified drivers and verified users, setting new standards for safety, sustainability, and long-term benefits.

    The LisBon App connects all types of vehicles—cars, buses, trucks, mini buses, tricycles, and bikes—for both passenger and goods transport, rewarding both drivers and users. After each ride, users receive credits toward their next trip, while drivers benefit from cumulative yearly allowances and can qualify for a retirement pension after eight years of driving on the LisBon platform.

    Founder and CEO, Mr. Alpha Okechukwu, succinctly captures LisBon’s mission: “We don’t sell transportation. We don’t sell logistics. We don’t sell trade. We don’t sell e-commerce. What LisBon actually sells is wealth, comfort and security. That’s LisBon’s market. So LisBon keeps you safe and saves you money while you’re making your money and at the same time, gives you a sense of better comfort while you make more money.”

    LisBon connects users to a variety of vehicle options, including cars, minibuses, larger buses, tricycles (keke), and motorbikes (okada) for areas that standard vehicles might not reach.

    The platform offers flexible ride options like Fixed Routes—a shared ride system with fixed pick-up and drop-off points and fixed timings, similar to a bus schedule. Passengers can subscribe to these routes, making their daily travel both affordable and predictable. —For example, a driver who travels from Asaba to Onitsha every day can set up a Fixed Route on LisBon. Passengers who need this route can subscribe, and the driver can pick them up along the way, turning their daily commute into a shared journey that earns them money.

    While a driver is going on his normal daily routine, subscribers get to go with him, so he earns from them while he’s doing his own business, at. At the same time, users get paid for their next trip. LisBon prioritizes passenger safety by verifying every user, ensuring a secure and reliable experience. Both drivers and passengers benefit financially. Drivers earn additional income by sharing their rides, while passengers save money on transportation costs by over 60%.
    With LisBon, users earn for life by inviting friends and family to join the LisBon community. Every time your invited friends use LisBon, you get paid—not just for a day, a month, or a year, but for a lifetime!

    While growing up, Mr Alpha had a messianic complex for his country, Nigeria and the continent of Africa, partly fuelled by his grandfather’s prophesy that he would do great things for his people. He left for the UAE to seek his fortune, He started in the UAEfortunes where he started as a fitness trainer and cleaner, but he quickly took on sales responsibilities and broke records, despite receiving no commissions. Driven by ambition, he worked hard and took risks to grow, but setbacks left him homeless for a longtime while struggling to find work. Undeterred, he began working for free, eventually advancing into a formal sales role where he continued breaking records.

    After saving enough, he set his sights on launching his own tech company, focusing on six essential features that he believed his technology company must have to be worth giving his life for.

    “I now had a vision to start my own technology business, but it has to have six criteria if it’s to succeed as well as drive growth for my people. It has to be a product that has the potential to become a company with the potential to become the most valuable company in the world by 2050; that was the first major criterion. Second is that it has to serve a large market and a large number of people; that means it has to be built for frequent daily usage which is the third. The fourth is that this product has to solve more than one problem at the same time in one place, and the fifth one is that it has to give back to people somehow. The sixth and last is that it has to bring value back to Africa and set our country and continent right where it needs to be. So these are the six criteria my technology product has to meet.”

    Ahead of its launch, LisBon has secured a partnership with DelFest 2024, Delta State’s inaugural festival, scheduled for November 22 – 24, 2024. As DelFest’s official transport partner, LisBon aims to provide seamless, secure and cost-effective rides for festival attendees.

    Mr Alpha shared his enthusiasm for the collaboration: “DelFest is very interesting. I like what they are doing. It seems visionary and something that has value to the people, and I admire what they are bringing to the people and that’s growth. So, I saw what they’re doing and I said, ‘if we become DelFest’s official transport partner, that could bring value both ways,’ because LisBon is going to be in the market from November 18, 2024, and DelFest is November 22 – 24, 2024. People can then use LisBon. When LisBon becomes DelFest’s official transport partner, DelFest can become iconic every single year.”

  • Hamburg Sustainability Conference spotlights youth entrepreneurship in Africa, African Development Bank Group support for continent’s youth-led small and medium enterprises

    Hamburg Sustainability Conference spotlights youth entrepreneurship in Africa, African Development Bank Group support for continent’s youth-led small and medium enterprises

    … two Nigerian innovators participated in the conference

    African youth entrepreneurs supported by African Development Bank Group took center stage at the Hamburg Sustainability Conference on Monday.

    During a session, titled “Empowering Young Entrepreneurs in Africa,” executives of the African Development Bank and its partner the African Guarantee Fund, as well as young African business leaders showcased innovative approaches to bridging the financing gap for youth entrepreneurs.

    The two-day Hamburg Sustainability Conference, which drew global leaders, development institutions and young business founders across the continent, featured high-level discussions on reshaping international financial systems and creating investment environments that promote achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

    The session explored the impact of the Bank’s Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa initiative. Through AFAWA, the Bank has approved approximately $1.8 billion in lending for Africa’s women entrepreneurs; some $1 billion has already been disbursed to more than 18,000 women-led small and medium enterprises.

    Melanie Keita, CEO and co-founder of Melanin Kapital, a Nairobi-based fintech company that provides digital loans, and a beneficiary of AFAWA, spoke about the need for more accessible financing options for Africa’s youth-led startups. She questioned whether there were plans to digitise the loan process: “Can people access loans from their living room instead of having to travel a lot of time and then go with a lot of paperwork and being denied loans sometimes?”

    South Africa’s Minister in the Presidency Responsible for Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation, Maropene Ramokgopa, told attendees that young African entrepreneurs are “drivers of change.” She urged governments to prioritise entrepreneurship policies and reduce bureaucratic barriers.

    “From financial technology, agriculture, renewable energy and creative sector to digital health solutions, young African entrepreneurs are transforming their communities,” Ramokgopa added. “They are also creating jobs and reshaping the economies as well.”

    Africa is facing a significant demographic shift: the continent is expected to be home to 1.4 billion people aged under 25 by the year 2063.

    Ahmed Attout, Director for Financial Sector Development at the African Development Bank, introduced its Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Banks (YEIB) initiative, designed to de-risk investing in youth entrepreneurs while fostering talent and entrepreneurship across Africa.

    “[The Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Banks initiative] is a one-stop shop that can give youth access to finance, employment guarantees, employment technical assistance,” Attout said, adding that the initiative is in the advanced implementation phase in Liberia and Ethiopia.

    Jules Ngankam, CEO of the African Guarantee Fund, an implementing partner of AFAWA, announced significant progress in delivering solutions for entrepreneurs. He said the Fund has issued $3 billion in guarantees, enabling commercial banks to lend $5 billion to small and medium-sized enterprises.

    The session was followed by a roundtable to stimulate networking between development institutions and African innovators. Joining Keita at the roundtable were two other beneficiaries of the Bank’s support: Chiemela Anosike, founder and CEO of Solaris GreenTech, and Ebun Feludu, CEO of Kokari Coconuts & Company, both Nigeria-based.

    Chiemela Anosike said the struggle for start-up success is real. “Entrepreneurship is hard. Entrepreneurship in Africa is harder…so, it’s difficult. So, we have programs like this…but then you give us another full-time job because you’re into fundraising and then it’s taking six months. You’re developing just one proposal [for financing] and it’s taking one month plus,” Anosike told roundtable participants.

    Bank Director for Human Capital, Youth and Skills Development, Martha Phiri, told the entrepreneurs that the Bank is integrating entrepreneurship skills into its vocational training programs, in recognition that not all graduates will find employment in existing job markets.

    Tapera Muzira, the Bank’s Lead Expert for Human Capital, Youth and Skills Development said the Bank’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship Lab, an online platform that connects African entrepreneurs with resources, financing, and business development services, is closing the information gap that limits youth potential to contribute to economies and communities.

    Earlier,  Norway’s Minister of International Development, Anne Beathe Tvinnereim, noted that her country is committed to supporting African youth entrepreneurship. She referenced the USAID and Norway-led Financing for Agricultural Small-and-Medium Enterprises in Africa program, a multi-donor fund designed to spur investment in Africa’s agricultural growth.

    “African youth constitute 60% of the population, which is why youth engagement and involvement is central in Norwegian foreign and development policies. Financing entrepreneurs is not enough. We need to build an entrepreneurial culture that supports solid institutional and regulatory frameworks,” Tvinnereim said.

    The Hamburg Sustainability Conference is organized annually by the United Nations Development Program, the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the Michael Otto Foundation for Sustainability and the City of Hamburg.

  • Kunda Kids Summer Festival Sets Stage for Gradely’s UK Launch

    Kunda Kids Summer Festival Sets Stage for Gradely’s UK Launch

    The Kunda Kids Summer Festival, a celebration of culture, education and children’s storytelling, concluded with a resounding success on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at the Shaw Theatre, London. The vibrant event not only captivated young minds but also served as the perfect backdrop for the exciting announcement of Gradely’s launch into the UK market. Gradely, an adaptive learning and one-on-one tutoring platform is set to transform the educational landscape through personalised lessons for young scholars.

    Festival Highlights:
    The Kunda Kids Summer Festival offered a unique blend of theatre, play, music and interactive activities. These included a special screening of Kunda & Friends, Karaoke sing-a-longs, author meet-and-greet, face painting, balloon artists, African drums ensemble, a storytelling corner, and the Gradely Gameshow.

    The summer festival, hosted by Playworker Amber, also included performances by Amona and her dancers who led the attendees in an engaging “follow the leader” routine with well-loved Kunda & Friends songs like “I Love Myself” and “Getting Ready.” The festival opened with the uplifting “Africa is Beautiful” song, setting the stage for a vibrant celebration of culture and heritage. This was followed by a performance by the African Drummer team, which got children dancing and in a high festive mood. The day was marked with lots of fun, music, dance and cultural appreciation.

    Gradely’s UK Launch:
    Amidst this celebration of culture and learning, Gradely announced its official entry into the UK market. The Gradely Gameshow, a highlight of the festival, offered exciting prizes while showcasing the platform’s ability to make learning fun and rewarding.

    “We’re excited to introduce Gradely’s adaptive learning technology to the UK,” said Boye Oshinaga, Founder and CEO Gradely. “Our participation in the Kunda Kids Summer Festival aligns perfectly with our mission to provide engaging, culturally rich, and technologically advanced educational experiences.”

    Louisa Olafuyi, Co-founder Kunda Kids added, “As pioneers in bringing African storytelling to life for early learners, we’re excited to see how Gradely’s innovative approach will complement our efforts to inspire the next generation of global citizens.”

    Gradely is introducing its AI-powered learning and tutoring platform to British schools and families by offering personalised education paths for students. This technology, combined with Kunda Kids’ emphasis on cultural, social, and emotional education through entertainment, offers a unique and powerful approach to  21st century learning

  • Kuramo Capital Management Appointed as Fund Manager for Nigeria Wholesale Impact Investment Fund (WIIF)

    Kuramo Capital Management Appointed as Fund Manager for Nigeria Wholesale Impact Investment Fund (WIIF)

    …this strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards sustainable development and impactful investment

    Impact Investors Foundation (IIF) is proud to announce the appointment of Kuramo Capital Management as the official fund manager for the Nigeria Wholesale Impact Investment Fund (WIIF). This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards sustainable development and impactful investment.

    Kuramo Capital Management, a leading investment firm with a strong track record in managing assets across Africa, will leverage its expertise to drive the WIIF’s mission of fostering social and environmental impact alongside financial returns. The fund aims to address critical issues such as poverty alleviation, job creation, and sustainable economic growth through targeted investments in key sectors including agriculture, renewable energy, healthcare, and education.

    “We are delighted to partner with Kuramo Capital Management, a firm that shares our vision of harnessing the power of capital for good,” said Ms Etemore Glover, CEO of IIF. “With Kuramo’s expertise and commitment to impact, we are confident that the WIIF will drive significant positive change and contribute to the sustainable development of Nigeria while achieving market risk-adjusted return to investors.”

    “We are honoured to be entrusted with the management of the WIIF,” said Mr. Wale Adeosun, Founder and CEO of Kuramo Capital Management. “Our team is dedicated to achieving the fund’s objectives and delivering both financial returns and measurable social impact. We look forward to working closely with all stakeholders to realize the full potential of this transformative initiative.”

    The structuring of the Nigeria Wholesale Impact Investment Fund is set to commence under the management of Kuramo Capital Management immediately, with a first close of $100 million. This collaboration is expected to catalyze further interest and participation in the impact investment space within Nigeria and Africa.

  • Sundry Markets Soars on Financial Times’s Africa’s Fastest Growing Companies 2024 List

    Sundry Markets Soars on Financial Times’s Africa’s Fastest Growing Companies 2024 List

    Sundry Markets Limited, owners of Marketsquare, a leading indigenous retail chain in Nigeria, has been recognized as one of Africa’s top 50 fastest-growing companies for 2024 by the Financial Times.

    The FT-Statista ranking highlights companies that have demonstrated exceptional growth, even amidst economic hardships. While many African economies grapple with post-pandemic recovery, Sundry Markets stands out for its ability to overcome both pandemic challenges and the continent’s broader economic struggles.

    In its third edition, the report identifies Nigeria, Africa’s third-largest economy, as experiencing a 2023 economic crisis marked by inflation and currency devaluation. Despite these difficulties, Nigeria boasts the second-highest number of companies on the FT’s list.

    The International Monetary Fund (IMF) reports Africa’s overall economic growth in 2023 at 3.2%, lagging behind Asia’s near 5% growth. This disparity is further amplified when considering Africa’s rapid population expansion.

    In his delight about the company’s listing, Sundry Markets’ Founder and CEO, Mr. Ebele Enunwa, said, “It is a pleasure to be listed amongst the top companies across Africa for 2024. Getting listed has shown that we are moving in the right direction. From a humble beginning in 2015 and now, we have gained recognition across the continent. Sundry Markets has employed direct and indirect 5,000 people pan Nigeria.

    This accolade from the Financial Times underscores Sundry Markets’ commitment to growth, innovation, and excellence, reinforcing its position as a leading player in Africa’s retail industry.

    Sundry Market currently has 31 stores located across 14 cities in Nigeria.

  • Access Holdings Calls for Responsible Use of AI at Smart Banking Summit

    Access Holdings Calls for Responsible Use of AI at Smart Banking Summit

    Access Holdings PLC, a leading financial services group, has echoed the need for ethical considerations in using Artificial Intelligence (AI), calling stakeholders in the financial industry to factor its sustainability implications. This call to action was driven by a compelling keynote address delivered by Lanre Bamisebi, Executive Director of IT & Digitalisation at Access Holdings, at the Smart Banking Summit 2024 held in Kenya on Wednesday.

    Speaking on the topic, “AI Guardians: Securing Compliance and Mitigating Risks,” Bamisebi’s keynote shed light on the imperative to strike a balance between innovation and responsibility as the banking sector and broader society embrace AI’s transformative potential.

    “Artificial Intelligence has the power to revolutionise our societies. Over the years, this has become increasingly evident, offering unprecedented opportunities for growth, efficiency, and innovation. From enhancing customer service to optimising risk management, AI’s potential benefits in finance are vast. However, as we embrace AI, we must also ensure that its deployment is ethical, secure, and compliant with regulatory standards to mitigate risks effectively,” he said.

    As the transformative power of AI continues to fuel innovation, concerns remain about its negative impact on the environment. According to OpenAI researchers, since 2012, the amount of computing power required to train cutting-edge AI models has doubled every 3.4 months. They also posit that by 2040, the emissions from the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) industry will reach 14 per cent of the global emissions, with the bulk of those emissions coming from ICT infrastructure, particularly data centres and communication networks.

    Speaking to these concerns, Bamisebi said, “The exponential growth of AI adoption must be met with thoughtful consideration for its environmental footprint. As we harness the power of AI, we must prioritise sustainable practices to mitigate its energy consumption and carbon emissions, ensuring a harmonious coexistence between technological advancement and environmental preservation.

    “We must embrace our roles as guardians, and place comprehensive regulatory frameworks, ethical standards, and continuous learning at the fore of our considerations so that we create a future that is safe, inclusive, and prosperous for all,” Bamisebi charged.

    Themed ‘Navigating the Next: Africa’s Leap into Smart, Secure, and Inclusive Banking’, the summit was a pivotal gathering of leaders spearheading the digital evolution in the African banking and finance space.

    Other contributors at the summit include Winnie Kaaka, Head of Product and Digital Banking, Access Bank Plc; Harry Hare, Co-Founder and Chairman, dx5; Moses Okundi, CIO/CTO, Absa; Tim Theuri, CISO, Safaricom/M-Pesa Africa; Daniel Adaramola, CISO, SunTrust Bank Nigeria Ltd; Steve Njenga, Founder and CEO, Metis Technology Solutions Ltd, amongst others.

  • First two Chibok schoolgirls graduate from US colleges 10 years after mass abductions in Nigeria

    First two Chibok schoolgirls graduate from US colleges 10 years after mass abductions in Nigeria

    –          Two survivors of the 2014 abduction of 276 girls by Boko Haram terrorists in Chibok, Nigeria, graduate from US colleges after receiving scholarships from the Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF) and Victims Support Fund

    –        MMF calls for more support for youths affected by conflict and in urgent need for education and empowerment

    The Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF) and Victims Support Fund (VSF) today announced the graduation of Patience Bulus and Mercy Ali Paul, survivors of the 2014 Boko Haram mass abductions in Chibok, a town in Borno State, Nigeria. Patience graduated from Dickinson College, majoring in Gender Studies and Religion and Mercy graduated from Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) with an Associate Degree in Social Science.

    Patience and Mercy’s journey to graduation was enabled by a partnership between MMF and VSF, to provide full scholarships and personal growth opportunities to the rescued Chibok girls, enabling them to pursue higher education at renowned universities in the United States. Patience was also inducted as an Honorable Member of the National Society of Leadership and Success at Dickinson College in 2021.

    10 years after the Chibok abductions shocked the world, insecurity and mass kidnapping in Nigeria are increasing, leaving a devastating impact on people across the country and posing a major threat to the economy. Recent kidnappings highlight the ongoing threat faced by young people in conflict zones. Young people affected by conflict need urgent support, including access to education, security, and restoration of livelihoods. Strengthening Nigeria’s education system is crucial for empowering, economic progress and inclusive growth.

    With over 200 million people, Nigeria has one of the highest numbers of out-of-school children globally. The country’s literacy rate is c.60%, with significant disparities between urban and rural areas. There is a critical need for Nigeria’s tertiary education system to contribute to the country’s development trajectory – providing skills to young people with aspirations for a better quality of life.

    Speaking at Patience’s graduation in Carlisle Pennsylvania, USA, Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode, Founder and CEO of Murtala Muhammed Foundation, said: “The abduction of 276 schoolgirls 10 years ago from their boarding school signalled the urgency of action to secure education for girls in Nigeria. As an organisation with a vision to advance positive education and social outcomes for women, we celebrate Patience and Mercy’s achievements today as a powerful example of resilience and we celebrate their determination not to be defined by the past but focused on the future. Many more girls in Chibok and other conflict-affected communities deserve this opportunity so today we are calling for immediate action at the local and global levels to enable access to quality education and build self-reliance in conflict-affected communities.”

    With 91 girls in captivity, many of the Chibok schoolgirls have returned as mothers. Rape, coercion, and extremism are often weapons of war; the need to protect women and girls must not be ignored. Sexual slavery/reproductive health are at heightened risk in conflict zones.

    Sharing their inspirational journey to completing their education,

    Mercy Ali Paul said: “Graduating feels like a dream I never thought would come true. Ten years ago, I was just hoping to survive the nightmare of abduction. Each moment I spent with Boko Haram was filled with fear and uncertainty, but my faith kept me strong. I finally escaped and I became determined after that to reclaim my life. I knew education was the key to rebuilding my future, and now with this diploma, I feel empowered. My journey has been challenging, but the support from my family, friends, and the sponsoring organisations from Nigeria made it possible. I hope my story inspires other girls in Nigeria and around the world to never give up, no matter how dark their circumstances may seem.”

    Patience Bulus said: “Walking across this stage today is more than just receiving a diploma; it’s a testament to resilience and hope. Ten years ago, Boko Haram tried to take away our futures, but they couldn’t take away our dreams. Escaping their grip was just the first step. Adapting to life in the U.S. and catching up with my education was incredibly challenging, but every struggle was worth it. Today, that I graduate with a degree from a prestigious college, is not just for myself, but for the countless girls who are yet to make it out. This achievement is dedicated to them and the power of community support. The encouragement and resources provided by sponsors in Nigeria and others here in the U.S. made this possible. I am excited to use my education to advocate for girls’ rights and education worldwide. Today is proof that with perseverance and support, we can overcome even the most harrowing experiences.”

    The initiative also gave the girls psychosocial support, immigration support, and essential aid and resources for their academic development.

  • Inner Drive: An epic journey, told through individual narratives

    Inner Drive: An epic journey, told through individual narratives

    How does a startup, founded far from the advantages and resources of the world’s tech hubs, go on to reach unicorn status? And more deeply, just how far can the drive for meaning and purpose ultimately take you? The inDrive documentary sets out to answer these questions.

    In an exclusive premiere today in Lagos, Nigeria, the inDrive documentary offered audiences a rare glimpse into the heart and soul of the company, with never-before-seen footage and candid stories from the individuals at inDrive’s roots, including founder and CEO, Arsen Tomsky. This special content dives deep into their initial vision and the philosophy fueling inDrive. Viewers will be treated to insightful moments and pivotal turning points that have never been shared publicly, shedding light on the profound impact inDrive has had on communities.

    Far from being a run-of-the-mill corporate film, this narrative delves deep into the butterfly effect of positive impact, illustrating how inDrive’s initiatives have rippled through communities, creating waves of change that extend far beyond their initial touchpoints.

    In the frozen Yakutsk winter, a group of people band together against the unfair price collusion of taxi companies that leaves people stranded in the cold. One of them starts a social media group where people can request and offer rides, negotiating prices on their own terms.

    It’s a simple enough idea, but it carries the potential to be revolutionary. From this frozen seed, a collective stance against injustice, inDrive takes root. Today, the company has grown to become the world’s second largest ride-hailing app, operating in over 700 cities in 46 countries, fuelled by deep-seated ideals and ambitions that extend far beyond profit.

    inDrive wants to reimagine capitalism, no less: to put people back in control, restore their freedom to choose, and so make their lives better.

    Among the heartwarming tales shared, the film follows the journey of Obadiah, a Nigerian boy once enveloped in the despair of his surroundings. inDrive’s Beginit initiative is now paving the way for a brighter future for him and many others.

    Reflecting on the film and its message, inDrive Founder and CEO Arsen Tomsky said: “We should focus on the path, on the journey. And if you do something important for you, that is very meaningful for you, and you develop an external environment during that journey, you are getting more and more with each step. And that is something which nobody can take from you. Even if you don’t reach a peak, you will have something available to you.”

    The production is directed by Lagos/Nairobi-based Emmy Award winner Dan McCain and Greek producer and editor, Theo Papadoulakis, each renowned for their individual talents in portraying everyday individuals facing remarkable situations. Dan is a prolific Pan African filmmaker who specializes in locally relevant and impactful storytelling, while Papadoulakis, recognized with over 70 international accolades, particularly excels in showcasing the resilience of the human spirit.

    “In making this film with inDrive, we hope to honor the resilience and determination of individuals whose dreams lead to something profound. It’s a privilege to be part of a multi-country international production, collaborating with other talented directors, where we weave together inspiring narratives that add to the epic tale of human potential.” – Dan McCain

    Person by person, the documentary tells inDrive’s story. From the remarkable individuals in Nigeria, Indonesia, Mexico and beyond, who use the ride-hailing app to take control of their futures, to the communities who take their chance to move forward.

    From Arsen Tomsky, the company’s visionary CEO, who overcomes challenges both personal and social to take an idea to the world, to the employees who come on board to help inDrive evolve and grow, fuelled by shared values and a common goal.

    It’s an epic journey, told by connecting people around the world. And it’s far from over.

  • IWD 2024: ImpactHER to train 250 female entrepreneurs on Market expansion strategies, digital skills

    IWD 2024: ImpactHER to train 250 female entrepreneurs on Market expansion strategies, digital skills

    ImpactHER, Africa’s foremost non-profit organization with a mandate for empowering African female entrepreneurs by bridging the gender business financing gap to help them realize their full economic potential is set to train for free over 250 female entrepreneurs in Lagos as part of activities to mark the International Women’s Day holding on 8th March, 2024.

    In partnership with the African Union and supported by other sponsors such as GIZ and Brave Women, the free training which will hold at The Zone, Gbagada will bring together over 250 small and medium-scale female entrepreneurs who are engaged in various business activities where they will undergo training on market expansion strategies, digital skills, packaging and export, business bookkeeping, business financing and various other topics which will help them navigate the challenges of running their businesses.

    According to Clementina Uzogor, Director, ImpactHER, the theme of the training “Inspiring Inclusion: Unlocking Opportunities Using Digital Skills and Market Expansion” is sacrosanct this period as SMEs need to know that business success and expansion is possible once they have a good grasp of the various digital skills available to them. “Excellent use of digital skills will help SMEs create a niche for themselves and reach global customers. This is the essence of this training. We have put together wonderful facilitators to explore in details the various digital marketing skills and how they can help with business and market expansion”, she said.

    She hinted further that this year’s training is of a different make owing to the speakers and facilitators that have been scheduled to impact the women. She said: “The speakers for this year’s celebration have been carefully researched and put together. Olanrewaju Oniyitan, Founder and CEO, W-Holistics Business Solutions; Florence Okafor, Chief Trade Promotion Officer, Nigeria Export Promotion Council; Olatunde Shobajo, Youtube Expert at Valor Reviews and Chidinma Ndukwe, Social Media Manager, Robert Taylor Media will be on ground to share their business experience and expertise at the training. Our panelists include: Adaku Ijara, MD/CEO, Emerging Africa Asset Management Ltd; Oluwatoyin Aralepo, Director of Finance, Mastercard Foundation; Dr. Oluseyi Olanrewaju, Chief Financial Officer, Digital Reality; Ayishat Olanrewaju, Founder, Corporately Lucid and Adesuwa Okunbo Rhodes, Founder, Aruwa Capital.

    While enjoining female entrepreneurs to take advantage of this uniquely structured training to enhance business growth, Efe Ukala, Founder of ImpactHER, informed that participants only need to register at https://iwd.onboardingimpacther.org/ and attend the training for free. “We urge all our female entrepreneurs to register for this event. They stand a chance to win $1,000 business grant, free websites and business registration, business advisory and free digital marketing strategy session too. This training is going to be a springboard for a reverberating business success for female entrepreneurs in Lagos and Nigeria” she expressed.

    ImpactHER is an award-winning not-for-profit organization awarded at the African Union as the Best Women SME (small and medium sized enterprises) Support Organization in Africa. The organization has trained over 130,000 female entrepreneurs across the 54 African countries.

  • 90 Media Leaders attend the “Bloomberg Africa Business Media Innovators” Forum 2023

    90 Media Leaders attend the “Bloomberg Africa Business Media Innovators” Forum 2023

    …Digital transformations, AI, business models and the future of media in Africa among topics explored in Cape Town

    Media, business, government, technology, and community leaders from across Africa and internationally have gathered today in Cape Town, South Africa for this year’s annual Africa Business Media Innovators (ABMI) forum.   The convening brings together a cross section of leaders to explore innovative approaches to fostering a vibrant media sector in Africa.

    Co-hosted by M. Scott Havens, CEO, Bloomberg Media, Matthew Winkler, Editor-in-Chief Emeritus, Bloomberg News, and Erana Stennett, Corporate Philanthropy Middle East and Africa, Bloomberg, the ABMI forum runs from October 30 – November 1.

    Focusing on the ideas and business solutions that can contribute to the future of media and journalism in Africa, the forum has brought together a range of speakers including media owners, Senior Editors, Business leaders, government offices, community leaders and philanthropic organizations from over 10 countries.  Participants will hear from speakers on a range of topics from the influence of AI and digital technologies on media in Africa, to the future of work in the newsroom and the sustainability of legacy publications across the continent.

    Day one concluded with a Gala Dinner at the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa in Cape Town, followed by a private tour of Mary Evans’ exhibition ‘GILT’, led by Koyo Kouoh, Executive Director, and Chief Curator, Zeitz MOCAA.

     Speaking at ABMI, participants commented:

    LaSharah Bunting, CEO, Online News Association, said:

    “Media continues to evolve with the needs and development of our readers, watchers, and listeners. As our viewers have changed, so too have our ways of working. I look forward to discussing how newsrooms harness the opportunities of our evolving media landscape, while also tackling some of the most pressing challenges, such as misinformation and fake news.”

    Thembisa Fakude, CEO, Mail & Guardian, said:

    “While technological innovation is providing huge opportunities for African media to open its reporting to a wider audience, we must be mindful of the risks that come with this, particularly around misinformation.  Given the pace of this technological revolution, it’s crucial that the news industry comes together to discuss how we continue creating a vibrant and responsible news industry that informs the public while supporting economic growth right across the continent.”

    Danai Gurira, Actress, Playwright, Activist, Artistic Director of Almasi Collaborative Arts, UN Women Goodwill Ambassador, said:

    “Storytelling is one of the most powerful tools for changing perception of Africa and allowing a complex, rich self exploration of its history and unique culture. It’s boundless possibilities to give Africa it’s own voice is what brought me to writing and acting, and I seek to connect with other innovators to share ideas and discuss solutions for taking Africa’s creative industry to the next level.”

    The annual event forms part of the Bloomberg Media Initiative Africa (BMIA), a pan-African program launched by Michael R. Bloomberg in 2014. The initiative is designed to advance business journalism in Africa and accelerate development of a globally competitive media and financial reporting industry. The program delivers cross-disciplinary educational programs and mid-career fellowships to increase the number of highly trained business and financial journalists, as well as supporting research to stimulate new media innovations. It is also designed to convene leaders to promote interactive dialogue and build strong relationships to enhance the quality of financial coverage and the availability of reliable and timely data on the continent.

    Earlier this month, Bloomberg expanded its executive education program in business and financial journalism, BMIA Financial Journalism Training (FJT), to Cote d’Ivoire and Senegal. Offering the program in French for the first time, more than 100 delegates joined the new training cohorts. This follows the successful implementation of the program in Ghana, Tanzania, Zambia, Nigeria, Kenya and South Africa. To date, the FJT program has reached 800 participants from 16 countries across the Continent.

     Admittance to this event is on an invitation-only basis.

                •           Mr. Travis Adkins, President and CEO, US Africa Foundation

                •           Tomiwa Aladekomo, CEO, Big Cabal

                •           George Anders, Top Writing Voice, LinkedIn

                •           LaSharah Bunting, CEO, Online News Association

                •           Styli Charalambous, CEO, Daily Maverick

                •           Paul Cheung, Chief Executive Officer, The Center for Public Integrity

                •           Dr. Edith Dankwa, CEO, Business and Financial Times

                •           Licy Do Canto, Managing Director, APCO Washington DC Office and Global

                •           Thembisa Faukude, CEO, Mail & Guardian

                •           Saliem Fakir, Executive Director, African Climate Foundation

                •           Diego Fernández, Senior Analyst, Mo Ibrahim Foundation

                •           Paula Fray, Founder, Frayintermedia

                •           Danai Gurira, Actress, Playwright, Activist, Artistic Director of Almasi Collaborative Arts and UN Women Goodwill Ambassador

                •           Andile Khumalo, CEO, The Broadkast Group

                •           Koyo Kouoh, Executive Director, and Chief Curator, Zeitz MOCCAA,

                •           Timothy Kotin, CEO, Superfluid Labs

                •           Dr. Acha Leke, Chairman of Mckinsey Africa

                •           Nishant Lalwani, CEO, International Fund for Public Interest Media

                •           Honorable Geordin Hill-Lewis, Mayor of Cape Town

                •           Prof. Lesley Lokko, Founder, African Futures Institute

                •           Nyimpini Mabunda, CEO, General Electric Southern Africa

                •           Tshepo Mahloele, Chairman and Founder, Harith

                •           Paul McNally, Founding Director, Develop AI 

                •           Jocelyne Muhutu-Remy, Managing Director, Africa, Spotify

                •           Nyimpini Mabunda, Chairman, Schindler Lifts South Africa

                •           Moky Makura, Executive Director, Africa No Filter

                •           Harlan Mandel, CEO, Media Development Investment Fund

                •           Raju Narisetti, Leader, Global Publishing, McKinsey & Company

                •           Saymon Nascimento, Communications Manager, Mo Ibrahim Foundation

                •           Micheline Ntiru, Co-Founder, We Three Queens

                •           Jason Njoku, Founder and CEO, Iroko TV

                •           Lola Ogunnaike, Journalist and writer

                •           Yvonne Orji, Actress and Comedian

                •           Khadija Patel, Journalist, Media Executive, Member of the Board, IFPIM

                •           Lavina Ramkissoon – AI Ethics + Technology Policy Expert at the African Union, Nobel

                •           Laureate Maria Ressa, Co-Founder and CEO, Rappler,

                •           Mactar Seck, Chief of Technology, United Nations Economic Commission for Africa

                •           Pamella Sittoni, Executive Editor and Managing Editor, The Nation Media Group

                •           Leonard Stiegeler, Investor and founder, Pulse

                •           LS Pamella Sittoni, Executive Editor and Managing Editor, The Nation Media Group

                •           Albie Sachs, South African Lawyer, Former Justice, Writer, Activist

                •           Alain Sylvain, CEO, SYLVAIN

                •           Dr. Brooke Taye CEO, Ethiopia Capital Market Authority

                •           Monde Twala, Senior Vice President & GM Paramount Africa & Lead BET International, Paramount International

                •           Zain Verjee, Founder, ZVG.

                •           Mr. Wachira Waruru, Group Managing Director, Royal Media Services