As Africa’s business landscape evolves, a powerful wave of female entrepreneurs is driving change, accelerating innovation, and reshaping industries. These 30 trailblazing women are breaking barriers, challenging norms, and setting new standards for success. Their impact extends beyond business, inspiring a new generation to take bold action and create lasting change. In no particular order see below the full list.
JENNIFER AWIRIGWE – PERSONAL FINANCE EXPERT
Jennifer Awirigwe is an acclaimed certified personal finance expert, investment banker and organizer of Nigeria’s largest finance fair. She is also the founder of FinTribe, the country’s first women-only finance platform. Having trained more than 100,000 women in personal finance and guided thousands on their investment paths, she has earned the title of The Women Money Cheerleader.
DEBOLA DEJI KURUNMI – VISIONARY LEADER, TRANSFORMATIONAL COACH AND POLICY ADVISOR
Debola Deji-Kurunmi is a polymath, best-selling author, keynote speaker, and transformational coach for visionary leaders. She excels in unlocking potential through coaching and consulting, impacting individuals and organizations alike. Debola leads multiple initiatives, including IMMERSE Coaching Company and Ideation Hub Africa, alongside various faith-based organizations.
CHEF MODUPE EMMANUEL – FOUNDER, SALT LAGOS
Modupe Emmanuel is an accomplished culinary expert with a unique blend of legal expertise and culinary passion.
She founded Salt Lagos, renowned for its exquisite desserts, cakes, and pastries, catering to weddings, corporate events, and intimate sit-down dinners.
Her contributions have earned her recognition from the Lagos State Governor as one of the 150 Eko Aspire Women.
With over a decade of experience in the culinary industry, she continues to lead Salt Lagos with innovation and creativity, maintaining its reputation as one of Nigeria’s top culinary providers.
ESTHER IJEWERE – FOUNDER, WOMEN OF RUBIES
Esther Ijewere is a Canada-based media strategist, author, and social impact advocate dedicated to amplifying women’s voices and driving meaningful change. She is the founder of Women of Rubies, a media and public relations platform that highlights women’s achievements globally while providing resources for personal and professional growth. She is also a multiple award-winning media personality and a strong advocate for social change.
SHARON MADUEKWE – FOUNDER, SHAMOL SCHOOL OF ETIQUETTE
Sharon Maduekwe embraces multiple roles as an entrepreneur, mentor, personal brand curator, and advocate for empowering women to live boldly and confidently. She founded Shamol School of Etiquette and Shamol Experience to help individuals host unforgettable luxury events while promoting a lifestyle of elegance and grace.
DR. PROMISE OVAI KENNETH-ODUM – CEO, RUKKIES HOUSE GROUP
Dr. Promise Ovai Kenneth-Odum is synonymous with innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership in Africa. As the founder and CEO of Rukkies House, she leads a diverse consortium of companies making significant strides in industries such as floral artistry, creative design, global sourcing, business consultation, beauty, and event management. Her work underscores her impact as a trailblazer in entrepreneurship across the continent.
EMEM IME OKWOCHE – MEDIA AND PR CONSULTANT
Emem Ime Okwoche is a seasoned media professional with over nine years of multifaceted experience in broadcast journalism, TV production, media consultancy, PR, event management, acting, fashion, and advocacy.
DR. ADEOLA (ADDY) OLUBAMIJI – CEO OF D-TECH CENTRIX
Dr. Adeola Olubamiji is a trailblazing technology executive, entrepreneur, and global thought leader in digital transformation and additive manufacturing.
Her work spans North America, Africa, and Europe, driving innovation and inclusivity in these sectors.
In 2017, she made history as the first Black individual to earn a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering.
She is the CEO of D-Tech Centrix, a US-based EdTech company focused on study abroad consulting, career coaching, and immigration services.
She is also the Co-founder & Vice President of Synergy Private Equity Corp, a real estate investment firm.
Through her work, Dr. Olubamiji is advancing digital transformation, STEM education, and additive manufacturing, inspiring future leaders to embrace technology and innovation as tools for global progress.
OG OKONKWO – FOUNDER, STYLE TEMPLE
Og Okonkwo is a Nigerian fashion designer and entrepreneur who founded Style Temple in 2011. The brand is renowned for its stunning modern African aesthetic, blending Nigerian elements with contemporary styles to create timeless pieces. Her designs have captivated A-list celebrities and prominent individuals across the continent.
OSATO EL-OSEMWINGIE – FOUNDER, EL GAZELLE FOOD LTD
Osato El-Osemwingie, known as the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) Queen, is the founder of El Gazelle Food Limited and a dynamic entrepreneur in the food processing industry. A Mandela Washington Fellow, she has secured multiple grants and scaled her NAFDAC-approved Kilishi brand to over 350 stores nationwide. She is also passionate about youth entrepreneurship and philanthropy.
DR. SARAH AMANA – PERSONAL FINANCE EXPERT
Dr. Sarah Amana is an award-winning personal finance expert and the founder of Rich Aunty Finance Limited and RAF App, dedicated to empowering individuals, especially women, to achieve financial success.
She serves as an Executive Director at GOTNI, impacting leadership and financial literacy across Africa. She also hosts The Wealth Diaries with Rich Aunty Podcast.
Through her work, she continues to inspire financial independence worldwide.
IFEDAYO DUROSINMI-ETTI – FOUNDER, HERCONOMY
Ifedayo Durosinmi-Etti is an author, entrepreneur, and Young Global Leader with over 10 years of management and leadership experience in the finance, marketing, and manufacturing industries.
She is the founder of Herconomy, a financial technology platform that helps women securely grow their wealth by offering high-yield savings accounts, financial education, and exclusive discounts on women-centric services and products.
A Mandela Washington Fellow, she has won multiple awards, including the 2022 Tech Entrepreneur of the Year by Globant.
Herconomy has trained over 85,000 women both online and offline, positioning itself as a leading financial services platform for women in Africa.
KIKELOMO ATANDA-OWO – CEO, PRINCIPAL CONSULTING Z-EDGE HOLDINGS
Kikelomo Atanda-Owo is the CEO of Principal Consulting Z-Edge Holdings, a firm specializing in corporate and management training, event management, procurement, and integrated marketing communications.
She is also the Convener and Host of RealTalkWithKike and the Founder of Kike Hub Foundation, an organization focused on supporting single mothers and widows.
With over 19 years of experience in marketing communications, PR, and business strategy, she has built a reputation for innovation, business development, and impactful marketing programs.
FESTUS ABIGAIL – GIRL CHILD ADVOCATE
Festus Abigail is an inspiring administrator and advocate for girls’ empowerment. As the Executive Director of the FAB Treasure Foundation, she champions education and equality by providing feminine hygiene education, free sanitary pads, and promoting digital literacy. Her dedication to nurturing a supportive society enables young girls to thrive and participate equally in all aspects of life.
PRINCESS FATHIA NKRUMAH – ACTRESS AND PRODUCER
Princess Fathia Nkrumah is the Executive Director and Acting CEO of Princess Maria Investments and The Annette Nkrumah Memorial Foundation.
She is also the Acting Sales Dealer and Financial Consultant for the Goil Overhead Fuel Station, gaining recognition across continents for her contributions.
DR. IFEOMA STELLA OKOYE (ESQ.) – FOUNDER, STM MAGICAL CREATIONS LTD
Dr. Ifeoma Stella Okoye is a lawyer, HR specialist, and entrepreneur.
She is the Founder of STM Magical Creations Ltd, an event production and beauty company that is making a mark in the creative industry.
Passionate about mentorship, education, and empowerment, she hosts free training programs on entrepreneurship, leadership, and skill acquisition for youth corps members and secondary school girls.
She is a dedicated wife, mother of four, and a woman of faith, committed to driving impact and positive change in the community.
ANGEL POOE – ACTRESS AND PHILANTHROPIST
Angel Pooe is a powerhouse in entertainment and business, making a significant impact across the creative industries.
Through the Angel Pooe Foundation, she supports 60 rural children and owns a soccer team, driving community upliftment.
Passionate about women’s empowerment, she leads transformative initiatives across South Africa.
Angel serves as a Board Member of the Gauteng Arts Council and a panelist for Ghana’s National Film Authority, shaping the future of African creative industries.
FRANCISCA OVIE – MEDIA EXPERT
With a decade of experience in the media industry, Francisca Ovie has showcased exceptional leadership in her role as the Assistant General Manager & Head of Hi-Impact Studios, a leading media house.
She was instrumental in launching a family television station under Hi-Impact Studios, creating foreign content and developing live shows.
She is also the founder of The Omotola Foundation and Joyful Trove Gifts and Surprises.
MICHELLE A. YOUNG – SERIAL ENTREPRENEUR
Michelle A. Young is a dynamic and visionary entrepreneur with a diverse portfolio spanning fashion, winemaking, and philanthropy.
She is the founder of MICHLAGOS LTD, an innovative and trendsetting fashion label founded in 2014, known for its unique designs and commitment to sustainability.
Michelle also founded DCV, a business consulting and branding firm, and owns MICHELLE’S WINE, a boutique winery renowned for selling and distributing exquisite, high-quality wines.
Committed to social impact, she leads AGHOGHO CHARITY FOUNDATION, which provides school essentials to children.
Through her work, Michelle integrates fashion, business, and philanthropy into a cohesive and impactful career.
WOBIA IGWE – FOUNDER, POP OF CULTURE
Wobia Igwe is a visionary entrepreneur and creative leader, and the founder of Pop of Culture, a dynamic platform dedicated to curating international spaces where Black entrepreneurs and creatives can thrive.
Pop of Culture specializes in branding, marketing, event curation, and social impact.
She is also the co-founder of Jaiye Experiences, a travel and lifestyle brand that redefines how people experience Africa, showcasing the continent’s vibrancy, culture, and hidden gems.
Wobia remains dedicated to fostering collaboration, innovation, and economic empowerment.
CHINELO NWEKE – FOUNDER, DRESS ISLAND BOUTIQUE
Chinelo Nweke is a visionary entrepreneur, an inspiring global stylist, dedicated to empowering women through fashion and self-discovery. As the CEO of Dress Island Boutique, she has styled over 50,000 career women with timeless work outfits over the last decade. Her expertise in fashion extends to both men’s and women’s fashion, as she also owns a male boutique and a cosmetic store. Passionate about confidence-building and lifestyle transformation, she is the face of The New Woman Show, a weekly podcast designed to inspire women to embrace their best selves. Through her work, she seamlessly blends styles, branding and personal empowerment, creating a platform for women to emerge and shine.
OBRORI IVY NIA FAKAE – TV HOST & COMPERE
Obrori Ivy Nia Fakae, popularly known as Oby Ivy, has over 15 years of extensive experience in the media industry.
She co-hosts the popular Super Breakfast Show on Super 93.3FM in Port Harcourt, where she captivates listeners with her wit, charm, and journalistic expertise.
Recognized with numerous awards and honors, she has solidified her position as a beloved and respected figure in the Nigerian media landscape.
She is also the Founder and Lead Consultant of De OxygenIvy Global Resources, a media and events consulting company.
AISHA OCHUWA – GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR, AISHAOCHUWA GROUP
Aisha Ochuwa is the Group Managing Director of AISHAOCHUWA GROUP, which comprises four successful companies.
AishaOchuwa Jewellery Ltd specializes in the production and distribution of stainless steel jewelry.
AishaOchuwa Luxury Ltd produces and distributes pure gold jewelry laced with natural diamonds, as well as certified fine silver jewelry with moissanite gemstones.
She also operates a Jewelry Academy, providing training for aspiring jewelers.
In addition, she is the founder of The Industry Miner Ltd.
Aisha is a leading figure in the African jewelry industry, known for her expertise in luxury jewelry craftsmanship and education.
FUNKE FABEKU – CEO, SHOGE EXQUISITE FASHION
Funke Fabeku is an extraordinary haute couture designer with nearly 20 years of expertise in luxury craftsmanship and fashion design.
Her brand, Shoge Exquisite, has catered to hundreds of women who seek to make a statement at their special events.
Renowned for her impeccable attention to detail, intricate designs, and elegant silhouettes, Funke has built a reputation for creating timeless pieces that exude sophistication.
She continues to redefine elegance, ensuring every client steps out with confidence and style.
OLUFUNMILOLA BUCKNOR – FOUNDER, HRMADAM CONSULTING
Olufunmilola Bucknor, popularly known as HRmadam, is an HR expert, career coach, and entrepreneur redefining human resource management, career development, and business strategy across Africa.
As the founder of HRmadam Consulting, she has built a formidable reputation in talent management and HR strategy.
She is also a mentor and thought leader, empowering thousands of professionals through her online platforms and coaching programs.
ANGEL POOE – ACTRESS AND PHILANTHROPIST
Angel Pooe is a powerhouse in entertainment and business, making a significant impact across the creative industries.
Through the Angel Pooe Foundation, she supports 60 rural children and owns a soccer team, driving community upliftment.
Passionate about women’s empowerment, she leads transformative initiatives across South Africa.
Angel serves as a Board Member of the Gauteng Arts Council and a panelist for Ghana’s National Film Authority, shaping the future of African creative industries.
DR. OLUWAYEMISI SOYOMBO – FOUNDER, ICARE FAMILY VISION CENTER
Dr. Oluwayemisi Soyombo is the pioneering force behind the iCare Family Vision Center in Lagos, a revolutionary eye care institution redefining vision care. The center has received multiple awards, including The Nigerian Healthcare Excellence Award and The African Brand Awards. She also founded Sight Aid for Africa Foundation, which provides free cataract surgeries, distributes lenses, and promotes public health education.
DR. KRYSTAL CHANCHANGI – GLOBAL CULTURAL ACTIVIST & ENTREPRENEUR
Dr. Krystal Chanchangi, also known as Queen Krystal, made history in 2016 as the first Nigerian-American Ms. Illinois USA Universal.
She is the Founder of America Kids Multicultural World LLC, a global organization dedicated to supporting underprivileged communities, empowering children, and promoting diversity and inclusion.
Through initiatives such as feeding programs, educational scholarships, leadership training, and talent seminars, she is making a significant global impact.
Her work fosters unity in diversity, improving lives through education, mentorship, and empowerment programs.
VOVWE DUGGUH – FASHION DESIGNER & BUSINESS MENTOR
Vovwe Dugguh is a fashion designer, entrepreneur, and business coach, renowned for her exquisite bridalwear creations and transformative impact on the fashion industry. As the founder of Ovems House of Art and Fashion, a luxury bridal and bespoke tailoring brand, she has redefined elegance with her viral wedding dresses and meticulous craftsmanship.
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