The PAWENpreneur Awards 2025 are set to celebrate African women driving transformation, innovation and social impact across the continent. This annual event recognizes extraordinary female entrepreneurs, corporate leaders and changemakers who are shaping Africa’s business and social landscape. The awards highlight leaders whose work has delivered measurable results, empowered communities and inspired future generations.
From ed-tech innovators to sustainable business leaders, these women are redefining what it means to lead with purpose.
Driving Transformation Across Communities and Industries
Catalyst Award
The finalists for the Catalyst Award are pioneering large-scale community transformation. Precious Ebere, founder of DO Take Action, has mobilized over 4,530 Grassroots Development Champions across six African countries, directly benefiting 82,492 individuals through 3,381 community projects. Debola Deji-Kurunmi, a transformational coach and public policy advisor, leads a network of over 100,000 change-makers worldwide through her multiple initiatives, including IMMERSE Coaching Company and the Future-Forward Female Movement. Catherine Namara Mulumba, founder of the Be A Mentor Community, empowers young women to navigate higher education and protect themselves from risks like drink spiking, impacting lives across Uganda.
Women’s Health Impact Leader Award
Finalists in this category are championing women’s healthcare across Africa. Dr. Ifunanya Ilodibe Nigeria), CEO of EHA Clinics, has implemented quality healthcare systems, scaled patient safety measures and managed COVID-19 response centers. Cassandra Akinde, (Nigeria) co-founder of The Neo Child Initiative for Africa, has reached over 40,000 children with programs addressing WASH, nutrition, malaria and vaccines. Kehinde Abereoje, founder of Purple Pact and CEO of Mensa Period Products, promotes menstrual health, reproductive rights and leadership for over 10,000 women and girls in Nigeria.
Technology Leader of the Year Award
Technology innovation and digital inclusion define this award. Angela Kyerematen-Jimoh, founder and CEO of BrainWave AfricaTech, has pioneered AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics solutions, while making history as IBM’s first African female regional CEO. Thobekile Matimbe of Paradigm Initiative advocates for digital rights and civic engagement, serving on several international boards. Mary Adewunmi, founder of CaresAI, uses artificial intelligence to improve cancer care and healthcare delivery across Africa.
Mentorship Champion Award
These finalists highlight the power of mentorship. Ololade George-Aremu (Nigeria), founder of The Olly Company, supports over 100 women in career transitions and personal growth. Micheline Ntiru (Uganda), advisor to EHA Impact Ventures, leverages global experience to coach leaders across Africa, Europe, and Latin America. Elema Mbandi Elizabeth, (Cameroon) founder of EME’s Empowerment Hub, empowers displaced women and youth through skills training, financial literacy, and community development programs.
Platform Builder Award
These women create spaces for growth and collaboration. Mago Hasfa, founder of Read to Learn Foundation, reaches over 35,000 children with literacy programs in multiple countries. Nike Kerstin Akerele-De Souza, co-founder of Teach for Nigeria, advances education equity and leadership development. Favour Osiri-Wisdom, founder of The Model Woman Foundation, has nurtured over 40 first-time published authors and empowered 20+ women entrepreneurs through mentorship programs.
Diaspora Changemaker Award
Recognizing African leaders in the diaspora, finalists include Weyinmi Erikowa-Orighoye, who integrates health, education, and environmental sustainability for coastal communities in Nigeria. Chinwe Enyinna, founder of D’Survivor Hub, addresses gender-based violence while supporting over 1,500 vulnerable women, girls, and children. Dr. Onyekachi O., creator of TrainDTrainer, uses AI to empower African educators with digital teaching tools.
Policy and Advocacy Award
These women are shaping policies and driving reform. Samantha Sibanda, founder of Signs of Hope Trust, has developed Zimbabwe’s first disability-focused Citizen Budget. Blessing Akhile, Food and Agriculture Programme Advisor at ActionAid Nigeria, strengthens women farmers’ representation in national agricultural policies. Joke Aladesanmi, (Nigeria) founder of CELSIR, provides legal support and rehabilitation for incarcerated individuals.
Financial Inclusion Leader Award
Finalists are transforming financial access. Financial Jennifer (Jennifer Awirigwe) (Nigeria), founder of FinTribe, has led a community of 600,000 women to save and invest over $4 million. Boniswa Siwundla Madikizela, (South Africa) founder of FLIC_SA, advances intergenerational financial literacy. Dr. Lola Odeyale Ayo-Fashida (Nigeria), finance and management consultant, empowers communities through financial education, coaching and publications.
Cultural Enterprise Award
Celebrating Africa’s creative industries, finalists include Tuduetso Mokgosi, (Botswana) who designs people-centered strategies rooted in culture and data. Omoyemi Akerele, (Nigeria) fashion industry leader, supports African designers and circular fashion initiatives. Seyi Banigbe, (Nigeria) founder of Bland2Glam and media entrepreneur, educates and inspires Africans in business, media and entrepreneurship.
African Business Excellence Award
These finalists are redefining business leadership. Julie Gichuru, media entrepreneur, produces African-focused content and dialogues on leadership. Nelly Agbogu, founder of Nellies Nigeria, helps SMEs grow through technology. Pauline Otila Kamwara, founder of Apiculture Venture Limited, advances inclusive and sustainable beekeeping in Kenya.
Sustainable Business Leader Award
Finalists lead environmentally conscious businesses. Natasha Pearce, founder of Vivacious Eco Vixon, transforms textile waste into home décor and lifestyle products. Zaitun Namuwonge, co-founder of Afro Lube Limited, recycles used engine oil to reduce environmental harm and create jobs. Rose Sikulu, founder of Fibertext Green Paper, develops biodegradable packaging from banana waste.
Emerging Founder Award
These rising entrepreneurs include Naomi D., founder of Bluxies Incorporated, who empowers young African women through leadership and sustainability programs. Adebisi Opeyemi Aminat, founder of Pemnia Wellness, promotes nutritious food products while empowering farmers. Christina Oyindamola Akinrinde, founder of Signature Snacks Global, supports local farmers and creates plant-based, nutritious snacks.
Tech-for-Good Entrepreneur Award
These innovators harness technology for social impact. Simbiat Bakare, founder of Naija Feminists Media, promotes women’s rights through technology-driven journalism. Esther Eruchie, founder of FriendnPal, builds Africa’s first AI-powered mental health ecosystem. Solape Akinpelu, CEO of HerVest, improves women’s financial access through savings, investment, and SME financing.
Boardroom Leadership Award
These finalists set the standard for corporate governance. Akofa Dakwa, Deputy Managing Director at Bank of Africa Kenya, oversees multiple departments and serves on various boards. Daniela Simão, advisor and founder of Guardians of Corporate Governance®, mentors emerging leaders on using governance strategically. Dr. Deborah David, CFO and author, combines finance expertise with mentorship and leadership development.
Finance Leader of the Year Award
These leaders advance financial strategy and innovation. Mary Okoro, Tax Director at Airtel Africa, manages cross-border tax operations. Fiona Nuwamanya, CFO of Rocket Health Africa, has scaled telemedicine services for over one million patients. Hilda Manyo Dickson, Treasury Manager at TotalEnergies Exploration and Production, empowers individuals to grow financially through education and coaching.
HR Leader of the Year Award
Finalists define people-centered leadership. Grace Oyeniyi, HR & Practice Development Director at Bloomfield Law Practice, transforms organizational HR systems. Avanthi Maharaj, Head of HR at Google SSA, prioritizes empathy and employee well-being in corporate strategy. Jean Mutabazi, Chief People & Culture Officer at ZEP-RE, aligns talent management with organizational growth and transformation.
Sustainability Leader of the Year Award
These women lead with purpose and responsibility. Waithera Ng’ang’a, Group Director of Corporate Affairs at Biofoods, advances ESG practices and sustainable agriculture initiatives. Andrea A., Director at Forvis Mazars Canada, leads sustainability consulting and reporting. Oluwatobi Shofowora, Strategy and Corporate Planning Executive, has scaled West Africa’s gas supply while integrating sustainable practices.
Recognizing Excellence and Inspiring Future Leaders
The PAWENpreneur Awards 2025 celebrate women who are redefining leadership across sectors. By highlighting achievements in technology, finance, health, sustainability and cultural enterprise, the awards emphasize the importance of innovation, mentorship and community impact. Each finalist embodies resilience, vision and a commitment to advancing Africa’s social and economic development.
Through these awards, PAWEN not only acknowledges excellence but also provides a platform for these leaders to gain visibility, connect with peers and inspire future generations of African women entrepreneurs. By showcasing their achievements, the awards send a strong message: Africa’s growth is driven by empowered women who are ready to transform communities, industries and the continent as a whole.
