Forbes 30 Under 30 Africa Class of 2024: Celebrating a Decade of Innovation
As the sun rises on a new decade of Forbes’ influential 30 Under 30 lists, the 2024 edition shines a spotlight on a remarkable group of young visionaries.
These individuals are not only shaping the future of Africa but are also making significant marks on the global stage.
In its 10th year, the Forbes 30 Under 30 Africa Class of 2024 embodies the spirit of innovation, social impact, and entrepreneurial drive that is catapulting the continent into a new era of growth and development.
The Power of Youth: Africa’s Demographic Advantage
Africa stands as the youngest continent in the world—an asset that could potentially reshape not only its own destiny but also influence global economic trends.
According to the United Nations, 70% of Sub-Saharan Africa’s population is under the age of 30, with projections suggesting that more than a third of the world’s youth will reside in Africa by 2050.
This youthful energy is a powerful catalyst for change, driving innovation and pushing boundaries in various sectors.
Harnessing Potential: The Role of Young Entrepreneurs
The 2024 Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30 list is a testament to the potential that young Africans hold.
This year’s theme, “Passion, Purpose, and a Decade of the 30 Under 30 List,” celebrates the relentless spirit of these young leaders.
They are not only pursuing their passions but are also purpose-driven, focusing on creating sustainable solutions that address both local and global challenges.
Spotlight on Innovation and Social Impact
From tech startups disrupting traditional industries to social entrepreneurs tackling poverty and inequality, the individuals on this list are redefining what it means to be a leader in the modern world. Their work spans several sectors:
- Technology: Innovators who are digitizing essential services, improving access to information, and creating scalable solutions that enhance productivity.
- Social Impact: Visionaries dedicated to improving lives through education, healthcare, and sustainable development initiatives.
- Entrepreneurship: Bold individuals who are building businesses that not only aim to be profitable but also socially responsible and environmentally sustainable.
These young leaders are not just participants in their fields—they are trailblazers who are actively molding the future narrative of Africa.
Gender Dynamics: Shaping the Future
A significant aspect of this year’s list is its focus on the role of women in shaping Africa’s future.
Experts believe that the future of Africa’s wealth is young and female, indicating a shift towards more inclusive economic growth models.
Women on the 30 Under 30 list are founding companies, leading innovations, and breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries.
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Impact Stories: Personal Journeys of the 30 Under 30
Each individual on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list has a unique story that inspires and motivates.
These stories are not just about personal success; they are about resilience, overcoming challenges, and a commitment to making a positive impact on society.
Through their journeys, these young leaders demonstrate the power of youth and the potential of a single individual to bring about substantial change.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Africa’s Global Influence
The Forbes 30 Under 30 list is more than just an acknowledgment of individual achievements; it’s a celebration of Africa’s collective future.
It highlights the continent’s readiness to take a central role in the global marketplace, thanks to its innovative young minds.
As Africa continues to grow economically and its young population harnesses new technologies and entrepreneurship, the continent is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the 21st century.
Name | Country | Age | Profession | Industry |
---|---|---|---|---|
Alex Mativo | Kenya | 29 | CEO and Co-founder, E-LAB, Nanasi and Duck | Multiple ventures |
Ann-Kathrin Joos | South Africa | 28 | CEO and Founder, Standard Beauty | Beauty |
Vimbai Masiyiwa | Zimbabwe | 29 | CEO, Batoka Hospitality | Tourism |
Andrew Ddembe | Uganda | 28 | Co-founder and CEO, MobiKlinic | Healthtech |
Chad Jones | South Africa | 28 | Social Media Content Creator and Brand Influencer | Social media |
Adedamola Oyinlola Adefolahan (Fireboy DML) | Nigeria | 28 | Singer-songwriter | Entertainment |
Tyla Laura Seethal | South Africa | 22 | Singer-Songwriter | Entertainment |
Ayushi Chandaria | Kenya | 26 | Founder, Design Thinking Program (Kenya) | Education |
Ama Qamata | South Africa | 25 | Actress, Producer | Entertainment |
Daniel Novitzkas | South Africa | 28 | Co-founder and Chairman of the Board, Specno | Software Development and Technology Solutions |
Prisca Wegesa Magori | Tanzania | 29 | CEO and Co-founder, TenTen Explore and Smart EFD | Software Development |
Luke Mostert | South Africa | 27 | Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer, CatalyzU | Venture Capital |
Arooj Sheikh | Kenya | 28 | Founder and CEO, Beyond Kenyan Bars | Social development |
Kenneth M. Njeru | Kenya | 25 | Director and Founder, Africa Afya Healthcare | Health Investment Services |
Cayley Jorgensen | South Africa | 29 | CEO and Founder, Ingage Support; Registered Counselor | Mental health |
Hildah Magaia | South Africa | 29 | Forward for Mazatlán F.C Femenil and Banyana Banyana | Sport – Football |
Victor Osimhen | Nigeria | 25 | Footballer and Striker for Super Eagles | Sport – Football |
Tobi Amusan | Nigeria | 26 | Track and Field Athlete | Sport – Athletics |
Damian Willemse | South Africa | 25 | Stormers and Springboks rugby player | Sport – Rugby |
Ricardo Lognath | South Africa | 29 | Co-Founder and CEO, Omninela Medical | Healthcare/E-commerce |
Nicolas Lognath | South Africa | 27 | Co-Founder and Director, Omninela Medical | Healthcare/E-commerce |
Ruth Erikan James | Nigeria | 29 | Founder, Veekee James | Fashion |
Shaun Maswanganyi | South Africa | 23 | Track and Field Athlete | Sport – Athletics |
Jeremiah Thoronka | Sierra Leone | 24 | Founder and CEO, Optim Energy | Climate Change and Sustainability (Social Impact) |
Calvin Usiri | Tanzania | 28 | Co-founder and CTO, Ramani | Geographic Information Systems (GIS) |
Peace Wutawunashe | Zimbabwe | 27 | Founder, Trigershot Engineering | Solar/Renewable Energy |
Esethu Cenga | South Africa | 29 | Co-founder and CEO, Rewoven | Fashion |
Josiah Akinloye | Nigeria | 29 | Founder and CEO, Mainlogix Technology | Automation and Technology |
Abioye Oyetunji | Ghana | 29 | Founder and CEO, FXKudi | Fintech |
Nadine Roos | South Africa | 27 | South African Rugby Union (Springboks) and Sevens player | Sport – Rugby |
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African Countries Leading Contributors to the 2024 Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30 List
Rank | Country | Number of honorees | Honorees |
---|---|---|---|
1. | South Africa | 14 | Ann-Kathrin Joos, Chad Jones, Tyla Laura Seethal, Ama Qamata, Daniel Novitzkas, Luke Mostert, Cayley Jorgensen, Hildah Magaia, Damian Willemse, Ricardo Lognath, Nicolas Lognath, Shaun Maswanganyi, Esethu Cenga, Nadine Roos |
2. | Nigeria | 5 | Adedamola Oyinlola Adefolahan (Fireboy DML), Victor Osimhen, Tobi Amusan, Ruth Erikan James, Josiah Akinloye |
3. | Kenya | 4 | Alex Mativo, Ayushi Chandaria, Arooj Sheikh, Kenneth M. Njeru, |
4. | Tanzania | 2 | Prisca Wegesa Magori, Calvin Usiri |
5. | Zimbabwe | 2 | Vimbai Masiyiwa, Peace Wutawunashe |
6. | Ghana | 1 | Abioye Oyetunji |
7. | Sierra Leone | 1 | Jeremiah Thoronka |
8. | Uganda | 1 | Andrew Ddembe |
Conclusion: A Decade of Transformation
Reflecting on the past decade, the Forbes 30 Under 30 list has not only celebrated young talent but also signaled emerging trends and opportunities within Africa.
As we look forward, the promise of this vibrant continent is unlimited.
With each passing year, these young leaders continue to break new ground, ensuring that the story of Africa is one of hope, innovation, and endless possibilities.
FAQs About Forbes 30 Under 30 Africa
- What is the Forbes 30 Under 30 List?
- The Forbes 30 Under 30 list annually recognizes 30 individuals under the age of 30 who are making significant impacts in their respective fields, ranging from business and technology to arts and social entrepreneurship.
- How are nominees for the Forbes 30 Under 30 Africa selected?
- Nominees are selected based on their achievements, potential to influence their industries, and their capacity to drive change across the continent and globally.
- Why is the Forbes 30 Under 30 list important for Africa?
- It highlights the innovative and entrepreneurial spirit of young Africans, inspiring others and attracting global attention and investment to the continent.
- How can one be nominated for the Forbes 30 Under 30?
- Candidates can be nominated by peers, mentors, or through self-nomination via the Forbes website during the nomination period.
- What impact does the Forbes 30 Under 30 list have on the individuals selected?
- Being selected often leads to increased visibility, networking opportunities, and potential funding and partnership opportunities.
- Are there any success stories from past Forbes 30 Under 30 Africa alumni?
- Many alumni have gone on to expand their businesses, receive significant funding, and make substantial impacts in their communities and industries.
- What trends are emerging from the Forbes 30 Under 30 lists?
- Recent lists have shown a strong trend towards technology, sustainable development, and an increasing number of female entrepreneurs.