Africa’s growth is being shaped by women building businesses, creating jobs, developing new technologies and addressing social challenges in their communities. The 2026 Future 54 Leading Women recognises 54 women whose work spans entrepreneurship, technology, finance, healthcare, education, media, sustainability and social impact.
The initiative highlights the growing role of women in Africa’s economic and social development. While their sectors and approaches differ, the women recognised in the 2026 cohort share a focus on creating practical opportunities, strengthening communities and building organisations that can continue to deliver impact over time.
The Future 54 Class of 2026 also reflects the range of work being led by African women. Some are developing technology to improve education and healthcare, while others are building businesses in agriculture, manufacturing, fashion, media and financial services. Others are using advocacy, law, communication and community programmes to address challenges affecting women, young people and underserved communities.
Women building solutions across Africa
1. Precious Oluwadamilola Adeleke, Nigeria
Precious Adeleke is the Founder and Executive Director of the Preshh BlossomGirls Advocacy Initiative, where she works to improve menstrual health education and sexual and reproductive health rights for girls in underserved communities. Through grassroots outreach, health education and training girls to produce reusable sanitary pads, her work has empowered more than 3,000 girls to attend school with greater confidence and dignity. A recipient of the Luminary Impact Award and a Period with Pride Fellow, Adeleke wants to expand her organisation over the next five years, strengthen community support systems and ensure more girls can access education without menstrual stigma.
2. Amrah Aliyu, Nigeria
Amrah Aliyu is a gender justice advocate, author and social entrepreneur and the Founder of the Salma Attah Foundation for Women and Girls Support. Her work has reached more than 20,000 women and girls through education, menstrual equity, digital inclusion and grassroots advocacy. She also founded the Kallabi Leadership Fellowship and GirlCode Bootcamp, which provide young women with leadership experience and digital skills. Aliyu wants to help build a generation of women with greater access to leadership, education and economic opportunity while supporting efforts to reduce violence against women and girls. She is focused on building programmes that can continue beyond her own leadership and is strengthening her ability to delegate, use data in decision-making and create sustainable change.
3. Theo Boitshwarelo, Botswana
Theo Boitshwarelo is a sustainability advocate, green entrepreneur and founder of Eco-Gen, a youth-led organisation promoting climate literacy, sustainable development and green entrepreneurship. Through Eco-Gen Consultancy and programmes such as the Green Entrepreneurship Lab, she works with businesses, communities and young innovators to develop solutions with environmental, social and economic value. Her five-year goal is to make sustainability education and green opportunities more accessible, especially in rural and underserved communities. She is building partnerships, expanding her knowledge and developing platforms that support collaboration and innovation. Boitshwarelo is also focused on becoming a stronger servant leader while maintaining accountability, integrity and emotional maturity.
4. Zimkitha Duze, South Africa
Zimkitha Duze is the Founder and CEO of Uuka EcoBricks, a cleantech startup turning plastic and glass waste into sustainable building materials. After returning to Kimberley and seeing environmental problems and unemployment in her community, she developed a business model that connects waste management with economic opportunity. Her work has received recognition through the Reside Summit Construction Product of the Year Awards, the Visa She’s Next programme and the Motsepe Foundation Golden Circle. Duze plans to expand Uuka EcoBricks across South Africa and into other African markets, creating jobs while promoting circular economy practices. She is also investing in her own leadership, resilience and continuous learning.
5. Amb. Rebecca Ebong, Nigeria
Rebecca Ebong is the Founder and Creative Director of VPkids, a purpose-driven children’s fashion brand that uses fashion to promote confidence, creativity, leadership and academic excellence. She is also a marketing strategist, entrepreneur, author and business development consultant. Ebong wants VPkids to become one of Africa’s leading children’s fashion brands while using initiatives such as the VPkids Fashion Show to promote education, confidence and positive values among young people. Her approach places purpose alongside commercial growth, with a focus on building systems and a legacy that can continue beyond her personal involvement.
6. Gladys Emmanuel, Nigeria
Gladys Rebecca Emmanuel is an award-winning human rights lawyer, gender justice advocate and researcher focused on strengthening legal empowerment across Africa. A Cardiff University Vice-Chancellor’s Scholar and PhD candidate in Gender Studies, she combines survivor-centred research, legal advocacy and grassroots mobilisation. She has led the ministerially endorsed Girls Vanguard Project and serves as a UNFPA/Chayn Ambassador for Tech-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence response. Emmanuel hopes to contribute to a measurable shift towards systemic gender justice over the next five years by strengthening legal systems, scaling grassroots programmes and turning research into practical solutions. She is also developing a leadership approach based on collaboration, resilience, strategic thinking and mentorship.
7. Esther Eruchie, Nigeria
Esther Eruchie is the Founder and CEO of FriendnPal, an AI-powered behavioural health platform designed to improve access to mental healthcare. After experiencing personal loss, she identified gaps in behavioural healthcare and taught herself software engineering before developing the platform. FriendnPal has reached more than 87,000 people and gained international recognition for innovation and social impact. Eruchie wants to help healthcare systems identify risks before they become crises by using ethical AI and stronger partnerships with governments and healthcare institutions. She is also focused on building an organisation that can continue creating impact beyond her own leadership.
8. Ontifile Gaokgorwe, Botswana
Ontifile Gaokgorwe is an award-winning social entrepreneur and disability inclusion advocate. She is the Founder and Director of The Bees Hive Academy and Founder of The Inclusion Hub Connect, both of which focus on inclusive education and developmental support for children with disabilities. Her work also supports families, educators and communities. Gaokgorwe hopes to establish a centre of excellence for inclusive education and expand digital access to developmental support across Botswana and beyond. She is building partnerships and investing in leadership development while promoting empathy, collaboration and community wellbeing.
9. Winnie Gathu, Kenya
Winnie Gathu is the Founder and Executive Director of Girl Code Movement, an innovation ecosystem creating pathways for African women and young people to participate in emerging economies. Her work covers artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship and digital manufacturing, with a focus on connecting talent to employment and economic opportunities. Over the next five years, Gathu wants to move beyond simply developing talent by building systems that connect skills with employment, entrepreneurship and cross-border opportunities. She is developing talent verification systems, commercial partnerships and policy engagement while building governance structures that allow others to lead.
10. Dineo Glomane, South Africa
Dineo Glomane is the co-founder of Womech Mechanical Works Specialists, a black women-owned mechanical and auto-electrical workshop she built with her sister in Mpumalanga. Her unexpected move into the automotive industry developed into a business recognised for quality workmanship and its role in challenging perceptions about women in technical trades. Glomane plans to expand Womech into new provinces and the mining sector while investing in learnerships and apprenticeships. She is also strengthening her leadership through coaching, mentorship and continuous development, with the aim of creating opportunities for young people, particularly young women.
11. Deshnie Govender, South Africa
Deshnie Govender is an award-winning marketing executive, entrepreneur and founder of Studio 545, a media and consulting company supporting the next generation of African marketers, creators and business leaders. Her previous leadership experience includes work with TikTok, L’Oréal, Diageo and AB InBev across Africa, Europe, Asia and the Americas. Through Studio 545, she wants to make high-level marketing knowledge, networks and opportunities more accessible across emerging markets. Initiatives such as In The Room are helping open access to industry conversations and opportunities. Govender is now focused on building platforms that help other people learn, grow and lead.
12. Christina Horace, Kenya
Christina Horace is the Founder and Creative Director of Miss Kibichi, a sustainable fashion brand built around circular design, innovation and African cultural storytelling. Her work promotes responsible consumption while supporting African craftsmanship and encouraging women and young creatives to build purposeful businesses. Horace wants Miss Kibichi to become a globally recognised African fashion brand that demonstrates the commercial potential of sustainability. She is developing the business through mentorship, creative partnerships and responsible collections while strengthening her own resilience, discipline and confidence.
13. Salma Ibrahim, Kenya
Salma Ibrahim is the Founder of Business Week Afrika, an entrepreneur support organisation focused on helping businesses communicate clearly, grow sustainably and compete globally. As a content creator, speaker and entrepreneurship development consultant, she works across Africa to connect entrepreneurs with knowledge, networks and opportunities. Her five-year goal is to contribute to an Africa where more entrepreneurs build profitable and scalable businesses that create jobs and support economic growth. Business Week Afrika is developing platforms that connect entrepreneurs with markets, investment and partnerships. Ibrahim is also focused on consistent leadership and believes different stages of life and business require different priorities.
14. Lauren Jacobs, South Africa
Lauren Jacobs is an award-winning journalist, author and founder of She Speaks Sport, a media platform focused on telling athletes’ stories in their own voices and championing women’s sport. After nearly a decade working as a social justice journalist, she expanded into broadcasting, publishing and advocacy. Jacobs hopes to grow She Speaks Sport while writing biographies that preserve the stories of women whose contributions have often been overlooked. She also wants to mentor women entering the sports industry and prepare for work as a sports chaplain. Her approach is built around purpose, lifelong learning and creating space for others.
15. Tsholofelo Millicent Jansen, South Africa
Tsholofelo Millicent Jansen is the Founder and CEO of Khutsho Solutions, a steel fabrication business based in Kuruman in the Northern Cape. She is focused on manufacturing, innovation, community development and creating opportunities through entrepreneurship. Jansen wants to create employment, support entrepreneurs and show that locally manufactured products can compete at a high level. Her initiatives, including #30Days30Businesses and #TheFoundation, support other entrepreneurs while she continues to build strategic partnerships and strengthen her business knowledge. She believes confidence develops through action and continued learning.
16. Olufolake Johnson, Nigeria
Olufolake “Steaze” Johnson is an award-winning marketing strategist, brand transformation leader and founder of The FSJ Company. Her career sits at the intersection of business, storytelling and innovation, with experience across leading African organisations. She is increasingly using authentic African stories to influence perceptions and contribute to positive social change. Johnson wants to strengthen Africa’s global brand by developing platforms focused on culture, leadership and impact. Her work includes strategic consulting, leadership development, documentary filmmaking and thought leadership, while she continues to develop as a leader focused on empathy, resilience and long-term impact.
17. Taazima Kala, Botswana
Taazima Kala is a strategic communications and reputation management specialist with more than a decade of experience advising organisations across Africa. As General Manager and Chief Consultant of Hotwire, she has contributed to nationally significant initiatives while supporting the development of the communications profession through research, mentorship and international leadership. She is the first Motswana to be admitted as a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations. Kala wants to continue working on projects that strengthen organisations and improve lives while supporting professional development. She is also expanding her knowledge of artificial intelligence and responsible technology use.
18. Mpumi Khumalo, South Africa
Mpumi Khumalo is a media strategist, television host and Founder of Cultivate Woman, a platform using storytelling and leadership conversations to empower women. With more than a decade of experience in communications, digital marketing and content strategy, she creates spaces for women to explore identity, purpose and personal development. Khumalo wants Cultivate Woman to become one of Africa’s trusted platforms for women seeking growth in leadership, faith and purpose. Through media, podcasting, television and partnerships, she is building a community that supports courageous leadership. Her focus is increasingly on emotional resilience, integrity, humility and service.
19. Zama Khumalo, South Africa
Zama Khumalo is a digital marketing professional, speaker and founder of KZN Tech Mbokodo, a foundation supporting women in technology through skills development, mentorship and community. She is also the founder of Blue Paw Communications, which works to amplify people and organisations in the technology ecosystem. Khumalo wants to expand KZN Tech Mbokodo across South Africa and provide more women in underserved communities with digital skills and entrepreneurial opportunities. Her goal is to create spaces where women can develop confidence and build sustainable careers while she continues to lead through service and integrity.
20. Thayu Kilili, Kenya
Thayu Kilili is a creative director, storyteller and founder of Creatives Garage, one of East Africa’s leading creative ecosystems supporting artists through collaboration, innovation and cultural storytelling. Her work spans film, theatre, technology and design and has helped create platforms for thousands of creatives. Kilili wants to expand opportunities for African artists to collaborate and use authentic African narratives to reach global audiences. She is also mentoring emerging creatives and embracing new technologies. Her focus is increasingly on developing the next generation of leaders and building institutions that can continue to grow.
21. Abueng Leepile, South Africa
Abueng Leepile is an award-recognised agripreneur and founder of Bokamoso Abu Farms, where she is working on sustainable agriculture, food production and value-added innovation. She wants to create greater opportunities for women in agriculture while strengthening rural economies. Over the next five years, Leepile plans to establish the farm as a model for sustainable agriculture and rural development and create pathways for young women to enter agribusiness. She is strengthening governance, strategic partnerships and advocacy while developing her ability to move from operational management to long-term strategic leadership.
22. HRH Princess Azola Mabinza, South Africa
HRH Princess Azola Mabinza is a humanitarian, technology advocate and leader whose work connects innovation, cultural heritage, sport and youth empowerment. As Executive Chairperson of the African Monarch Group, she promotes ethical leadership rooted in Ubuntu while supporting access to technology, entrepreneurship and education. Her five-year vision is to create more opportunities for young people, particularly women, in technology, sport, entrepreneurship and cultural development. Through media, artificial intelligence, heritage preservation and partnerships, she is promoting African solutions and global collaboration. Her leadership approach combines continuous learning, ethical responsibility and service.
23. Tshaamano Mabuba, South Africa
Tshaamano Mabuba is an award-winning edtech entrepreneur, AI innovator and founder of Buddy Learning. Through BuddyAI, a multilingual WhatsApp-based tutor, she is using artificial intelligence to make personalised learning more accessible to African students. Her five-year goal is to ensure young people can access academic support regardless of location or language. She is improving the platform, expanding partnerships and building an organisation capable of scaling across Africa. Mabuba is also focused on balancing ambition with resilience, rest and compassion while building technology that responds to African education needs.
24. Nobesuthu Mahlangu, South Africa
Nobesuthu Mahlangu is an award-recognised HR Manager, LinkedIn creator and personal branding advocate helping young professionals improve their visibility and access career opportunities. Alongside her HR responsibilities, she has built a community of more than 105,000 LinkedIn followers, providing practical guidance to students, graduates and professionals. Mahlangu aims to help at least 8,000 young people use LinkedIn as a tool for employment and professional growth over the next five years. Through workshops, speaking engagements and partnerships, she is helping young people compete in the job market while developing her own leadership through empathy and confidence.
25. Ntsako Mahlaule, South Africa
Ntsako Mahlaule is an entrepreneur, author and Founder and CEO of Charged Up Group of Companies. Her work focuses on entrepreneurship as a tool for economic transformation, connecting entrepreneurs with mentorship, investment and strategic partnerships. She plans to establish a leadership school, complete her doctorate and expand Charged Up Group and the Charged Up Entrepreneurship Africa Network. Her aim is to support small businesses and create thousands of jobs. She is developing this vision through education, mentorship and partnerships while strengthening her emotional resilience and strategic leadership.
26. Linathi Makanda, South Africa
Linathi Makanda is an author and designer-strategist and the founder of LM BRAND STUDIO and its culture intelligence partner, Urban On My Tongue. Her work helps brands understand African consumers through language, behaviour and cultural context. Her clients have included Netflix, Canva, Momentum and Sasol. Makanda wants UOMT’s culture intelligence methodology to become a trusted framework for organisations engaging African markets. She is also using her role as a Canva Ambassador to provide design skills to students, creatives and organisations. Her personal development includes challenging limiting beliefs and becoming more confident in the value of her perspective.
27. Babazile Prudence Makhubalo, South Africa
Babazile Prudence Makhubalo is a financial journalist, producer and broadcaster who works to make business and economic issues easier for African audiences to understand. At CNBC Africa, she reports on markets and finance and hosts Africa’s Side Hustle, which showcases entrepreneurs. Her academic background includes business, artificial intelligence and blockchain. Makhubalo wants to become one of Africa’s trusted voices in business journalism, moderation and public speaking while growing her clothing brand, Bossy and Entitled. She believes leadership is about service and encourages women to focus on learning, personal development and their own individual journeys.
28. Nonhle Matsebula, South Africa
Nonhle Matsebula is an entrepreneur, internationally recognised youth leader and Founder and CEO of Girl Boss Africa, an emerging beauty company inspired by African ingredients, confidence and community. After the Mandela Washington Fellowship, she rebuilt the business into what she calls Girl Boss Africa 2.0, with a stronger focus on purpose and opportunities for women. She is also developing SHeUP, a salon empowerment model designed to support entrepreneurship in township and rural communities. Matsebula wants to contribute to a new generation of African enterprise where women have greater confidence, ownership and economic participation. Her experience has also taught her that rebuilding a business can be part of growth rather than a sign of failure.
29. Dr Omobolaji Mogaji, Nigeria
Dr Omobolaji Mogaji is the Group CEO of Rubellite Beauty Global, a cosmetic scientist, entrepreneur and business strategist working to transform Africa’s beauty industry. She founded Rubellite Beauty Global to develop high-performance products for African consumers while supporting beauty entrepreneurs. Over the next five years, Mogaji wants to strengthen Africa’s position in the global beauty industry by expanding Rubellite Beauty and using The Beauty Bridge Global to provide entrepreneurs with knowledge, mentorship and opportunities. She is focused on building systems that allow other people to thrive and creating a more inclusive and globally recognised African beauty sector.
30. Bontle Moka, South Africa
Bontle Moka is an endometriosis and health advocate, marketing professional, creator and author who founded The Heal Endo Movement (H.E.M). The platform focuses on awareness, support and community for people affected by endometriosis and related health challenges. Her advocacy has helped strengthen conversations around menstrual health, including a petition that attracted more than 17,000 signatures. Moka wants to contribute to earlier diagnosis, better support and stronger healthcare conversations around endometriosis. She is using digital advocacy, partnerships and plans for a major endometriosis summit in Africa to expand awareness. Her message to women is that every voice can contribute to change.
31. Asima Moola, South Africa
Asima Moola is an award-nominated attorney, Small Claims Court Commissioner, activist and social entrepreneur focused on access to justice and women’s economic empowerment. Through Asima Moola Incorporated, she provides legal services while supporting entrepreneurs through platforms including the Union Street Entrepreneurs Market and Streetspot ZA. Over the next five years, she wants to improve access to legal support, economic participation and civic engagement. Her work helps women understand their rights, develop businesses and participate in leadership. Moola also wants to increase her involvement in public leadership and promote accountable governance.
32. Lerato Motseki, Lesotho
Lerato Motseki is a Medical Laboratory Technician, healthcare quality leader and youth advocate working to strengthen health systems and develop future leaders. At Partners In Health Lesotho, she contributes to laboratory quality management and patient-centred care. She also leads youth development initiatives through the Shadow A Scientist Lesotho Chapter, Mosepele Foundation Development Forum and Global Mentorship Initiative. Motseki is pursuing a Master of Science in Financial Engineering to explore how data, finance and innovation can contribute to stronger healthcare systems. Her work demonstrates how professional skills can be applied across sectors to address wider development challenges.
33. Noemi Muya, South Africa
Noemi Muya is an award-recognised attorney, legal counsel and founder of For Women in Law (FWIL), a platform supporting women in the legal profession through mentorship, workshops and career guidance. She has supported more than 40 law students and young professionals while building a network focused on leadership and opportunity. Muya wants to expand FWIL and create greater access to mentorship, professional development and networks for African women in law and business. She is also strengthening her leadership by learning to delegate and build sustainable systems. Her approach is based on advancing personally while creating opportunities for others.
34. Nosiphiwo Mzamo, South Africa
Nosiphiwo “Nosi” Mzamo is the Chief Executive Officer of the State Diamond Trader and has more than 25 years of experience in mining, mineralogy and geological sciences. As a geologist and management professional, she has built her career in a traditionally male-dominated industry while supporting transformation, diversity and youth inclusion. Mzamo wants to strengthen Africa’s position in the global diamond industry through beneficiation, regional collaboration and innovation. She is focused on helping Africa capture more value from its natural resources through stronger supply chains and partnerships. Her leadership approach is based on self-awareness, empathy and taking measured risks.
35. Imani Ndaba, South Africa
Imani Ndaba is a serial entrepreneur, public relations strategist and creative director using storytelling to empower women, young people and African voices. Through Imani PR Firm, Inside Out Girls Campaign and Northsii Productions, she supports thought leaders, young women and African storytelling. Ndaba wants to influence how African businesses and public figures are represented by developing narratives that reflect the continent’s innovation and potential. She is also mentoring the next generation of communication professionals while working on her own leadership presence, patience and authenticity. She believes women can combine strength with empathy without changing who they are to succeed.
36. Morwesi Ndlovu, South Africa
Morwesi Ndlovu is a strategic communications and social impact leader, Founder of Mo&Co Art Studio and Founder of the That’s On Period Movement. With more than a decade of experience across digital marketing, education and advocacy, she uses creativity to address challenges affecting young people and communities. Her partnerships with UNICEF, UNFPA and Pan Macmillan South Africa have supported campaigns and learning programmes around health, gender equity and youth empowerment. Ndlovu wants to develop That’s On Period into a sustainable movement focused on menstrual health, dignity and education. She is also building systems and partnerships that allow impact to continue beyond her direct involvement.
37. Thabile Ngwato, South Africa
Thabile Ngwato is a multi-award-winning entrepreneur and media leader who has built businesses across broadcasting and technology. She is the Founder and CEO of Rapid Innovation Group, co-founder of Newzroom Afrika and founder of Bluestream Technologies, South Africa’s only 100% black and woman-owned broadcast satellite uplink business. Her work has contributed to the development of African-owned media infrastructure. Through Encore Investments, Ngwato aims to take her business ecosystem into new markets while creating opportunities for African talent, technology and innovation. She is increasingly focused on building pathways for other entrepreneurs rather than simply proving what is possible herself.
38. Fathiya Nur, Kenya
Fathiya Nur is a journalist, media professional and digital storyteller with experience at BBC Africa, The Standard Group and CGTN. Her reporting covers Africa’s political, social and cultural transformation, and she has interviewed influential leaders while making complex issues accessible to digital audiences. Nur wants to contribute to a more accurate understanding of Africa by focusing on solutions, innovation and people driving change. She is also developing platforms, including an upcoming podcast, to support deeper conversations and emerging voices. Her leadership development is focused on consistency, courage and using her voice with purpose.
39. Caroline Nyaga, Kenya
Caroline Nyaga is an award-winning STEM educator, teacher trainer and gender equality advocate. She is the Founder and CEO of Women in STEAM Initiative, which has established STEM hubs and school clubs across Kenya, trained teachers and equipped learners with coding, robotics, artificial intelligence and digital literacy skills. Nyaga wants to build sustainable STEM ecosystems that prepare young people, particularly girls, for the future of work. Through innovation hubs, teacher development and partnerships, she is working to make technology education more accessible. Her leadership focus is on systems thinking, collaboration, mentorship and creating opportunities for young people to discover their potential.
40. Hope Odabi, Nigeria
Hope Odabi, known as Dabi, is a growth strategist, public relations expert, talent manager and author working across Africa’s media and entertainment sector. She is the Founder of The Dabigal Media House, a culture-driven PR and talent management agency. She has supported creatives and developed platforms including the Female Influencers Series and The Clarity Network. Through The Hope Circle Foundation, she also works to expand access to education, basic needs and opportunities for underserved communities. Odabi wants to strengthen Africa’s creative economy by connecting talent to structure, mentorship and strategic support. She is also focused on building teams and sustainable organisations.
41. Belinda Odhiambo, Kenya
Belinda Odhiambo is a Legacy Architect™, Executive Leadership Strategist and Founder of Belshy Global Solutions Ltd. She has developed Legacy Architecture™ as a discipline focused on turning human and institutional knowledge into lasting systems. Her work supports leaders and organisations with governance, leadership continuity and sustainable development. Odhiambo wants to develop Legacy Architecture™ into a globally recognised practice while investing in research, partnerships and leadership development. Her approach focuses on creating institutions and knowledge systems that continue serving communities long after individual leaders have moved on.
42. Enifome Ogbimi, Nigeria
Enifome Ogbimi is a transformational leader, global speaker, resilience coach and Founder of the Live Again Foundation, where she supports women recovering from trauma and rebuilding their futures. Through community outreach, rehabilitation and empowerment programmes, the foundation has reached more than 2,000 women across Nigeria. Ogbimi is also developing Live Again Enterprise, a sustainability-focused platform designed to create economic opportunities for women. Her broader vision is to build a global movement where women are not defined by difficult experiences but are supported in creating new futures. She sees personal development as a foundation for stronger families and communities.
43. Susanne Ogunleye, Nigeria
Susanne Ogunleye is an award-recognised health innovation entrepreneur, leadership strategist and ecosystem builder. She is the Co-founder of Jasmine Ultra Blue Solutions, which develops technology-driven healthcare solutions, and Founder of Ice Plunge Nigeria, which promotes preventive wellness and holistic health. She also develops leadership ecosystems through initiatives including the Agora Fellowship and her work with the Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni Association of Nigeria. Ogunleye wants to build institutions that create lasting impact by strengthening people, partnerships and systems. Her leadership philosophy centres on developing others rather than trying to carry every responsibility alone.
44. Elizabeth Ogunseye, Nigeria
Elizabeth Ogunseye is the Co-founder and CMO of Subify, a fintech platform designed to simplify subscription sharing and bill splitting across Africa. She is also the first female President of the Association of Digital Marketing Professionals and has more than a decade of experience in product marketing across fintech, healthtech and consumer platforms. Through Subify, ADMARP, mentorship initiatives and open-source marketing frameworks, she is developing resources for African founders and marketers. Ogunseye is focused on building systems and institutions that can support professionals beyond individual projects. Her leadership approach is based on trust, intentional growth and developing others.
45. Blessing Okebe, Nigeria
Blessing Okebe is a strategic communications advisor, event host and speaker who helps leaders and organisations communicate clearly and strengthen their influence. As President of Lucien Professional Services, she advises executives and founders on leadership communication, executive positioning, thought leadership and reputation management. She is also the Founder of The Next School, which focuses on essential human skills, and Nexa, an events company creating meaningful conversations and connections. Through Triblings, she supports a community focused on intentional growth and lifelong learning. Having hosted more than 60 conferences and events, Okebe wants to become one of Africa’s leading voices in strategic communication while creating platforms for future leaders.
46. Omowumi Oladele, Nigeria
Omowumi Oladele is a Senior Product Manager and AI Product Leader building technology products at the intersection of artificial intelligence, enterprise systems and digital infrastructure across Africa, Europe and North America. She has led the development of technology solutions addressing complex infrastructure challenges, including national-scale AI platforms. Beyond product development, she mentors emerging technology leaders and promotes responsible, human-centred innovation. Oladele is also the author of The AI Product Journal, which shares practical insights on AI product strategy. She believes leadership should be measured by what is built, the people empowered and the systems strengthened.
47. Zainab Olayiwola, Nigeria
Zainab Olayiwola is a sustainability advocate, social entrepreneur and Founder of Ecowambe, a cultural sustainability movement connecting climate action with African culture and community. Her work focuses on circular economy solutions, environmental education and youth engagement. Olayiwola wants Ecowambe to become a scalable climate venture demonstrating how culture can support environmental stewardship and community resilience. Through programmes, partnerships and initiatives such as the Green Enterprise Incubation Program, she is strengthening the organisation’s impact model. Her vision is for sustainability to become an everyday African practice supported by innovation and collaboration.
48. Jael Owino, Kenya
Jael Owino is a social impact leader, women’s advocate and Founder and Chairperson of TechBloom Africa, an initiative providing girls and women with digital skills, technology education and economic opportunities. Her work focuses particularly on underserved communities, including teenage mothers and young women facing barriers to education and employment. Owino wants TechBloom Africa to become a stronger platform for digital skills, mentorship and entrepreneurship. Through community partnerships and advocacy, she is creating learning opportunities that can help women participate in the digital economy. She believes access to the right tools can help women turn difficult circumstances into opportunities for growth.
49. Ehiagwina Joy Patrick, Nigeria
Ehiagwina Joy Patrick is a business leader, entrepreneur and Group Managing Director of Patjeda Group of Companies Limited, a diversified group operating in logistics, hospitality, security, executive car rentals and entertainment. She is also expanding her social impact through the Heart of Gold Support & Care Initiative, which supports education, entrepreneurship and community empowerment. Through Patosehi Farm, she is involved in agriculture and sustainable livelihood development. Patrick combines business growth with philanthropy and participation in business networks, with a focus on creating opportunities that extend beyond her own enterprises. She believes collaboration and support for others are important elements of sustainable success.
50. Chevonne Ramharuk, South Africa
Chevonne Ramharuk is a wellness practitioner, yoga teacher and women’s empowerment advocate who combines wellness education, movement and community initiatives to support women and girls. With a background in psychology and wellness counselling, she works on mental health awareness and personal wellbeing. Her initiatives include an interactive wellness and menstrual journal designed to help young girls understand their bodies and cycles. Through the Inside Out Girl Campaign, where she serves as Head of CSI, as well as yoga programmes and period poverty initiatives, Ramharuk is expanding access to information and support. Her work promotes self-awareness as an important part of building stronger communities.
51. Nyaniso Tutu-Burris, South Africa
Nyaniso Tutu-Burris is the Founder and CEO of OneThread.Africa, a South African fashion technology company developing digital infrastructure that helps African fashion brands measure, verify and showcase their sustainability practices. Her work combines sustainability, technology, entrepreneurship and storytelling. Through OneThread.Africa, she is helping brands provide evidence behind sustainability claims while supporting emerging businesses and preserving cultural heritage. Her goal is to contribute to a more transparent and globally competitive African fashion industry. Tutu-Burris believes African businesses can create locally relevant solutions that also influence global conversations.
52. Uche Uzoebo, Nigeria
Uche Uzoebo is a business executive and financial services leader with more than two decades of experience in banking, digital payments, financial inclusion and business development. Her work focuses on strengthening payment systems and expanding access to financial services, particularly for underserved communities and women entrepreneurs. Through partnerships, capacity-building programmes and technology-driven initiatives, Uzoebo supports entrepreneurship and wider economic participation. Her leadership approach is based on the belief that success should be measured by the people and communities transformed through one’s work. She also contributes through mentorship, advocacy and ecosystem development.
53. Elizabeth Waliuba, Kenya
Elizabeth Waliuba is a programme management specialist, youth leader and gender advocate and the Founder and Director of Imarisha Usawa, a youth-led organisation empowering girls, women and young people through leadership, sport and community engagement. Through initiatives such as the Usawa Festival, she creates spaces for communities to discuss gender-based violence, adolescent health, leadership and social inclusion. Her work connects grassroots action with wider advocacy and encourages intergenerational collaboration. Waliuba wants to strengthen opportunities for young people to participate in decisions affecting their communities. Her leadership philosophy is centred on owning one’s voice while creating opportunities for others to lead.
54. Thembelihle Zwane, South Africa
Thembelihle Zwane is a healthcare professional, entrepreneur and Founder of Halo Sim Labs, a South African mental health technology company developing immersive simulations that teach emotional intelligence and mental health literacy to adolescents. Her work brings together healthcare, education and technology to address the need for preventative mental health education among young people. Zwane is building Halo Sim Labs into a scalable platform that can equip learners with practical tools for managing emotional challenges, building resilience and making healthier decisions. Through school partnerships, pilot programmes and evidence-based learning, she is helping change the way mental health education is delivered. Her long-term goal is to make mental health literacy an essential part of education across African communities.
Building Opportunities Beyond Their Own Success
The 2026 Future 54 cohort demonstrates that Africa’s progress is being driven by women working across very different sectors but addressing many of the same priorities: economic opportunity, education, technology, healthcare, sustainability, inclusion and stronger communities.
The significance of the initiative goes beyond recognising individual achievements. The women included in the cohort are building businesses, institutions, movements and platforms that can create opportunities for others. Their work shows how leadership can have a wider economic and social effect when it is linked to practical solutions.
From an AI-powered learning platform and digital skills programmes to sustainable agriculture, financial inclusion, green construction, fashion technology, media infrastructure and healthcare innovation, the cohort reflects the changing nature of Africa’s economy. Many of these women are also deliberately building systems that can continue operating and creating value beyond their individual careers.
The Future 54 recognition therefore provides a broader view of women’s contribution to Africa’s development. It highlights entrepreneurs creating employment, professionals strengthening industries, advocates addressing social challenges and innovators developing solutions for communities that are often left out of traditional opportunities.
As these women continue to grow their organisations and initiatives, their impact is likely to extend through the people they employ, mentor, educate, support and inspire. In that sense, the 2026 Future 54 Leading Women are not only being recognised for what they have already achieved, but also for the opportunities they are creating for the next generation of African leaders.
