The Future Awards Africa (TFAA), the continent’s most prestigious awards platform dedicated to celebrating young African excellence, is proud to announce the unveiling of its jury for the 18th edition. Themed “Celebrating the Great and Daring,” this year’s awards ceremony carries on the tradition of recognising and honouring exceptional young Africans who are pushing boundaries and making a significant impact in their communities.

Since its inception, TFAA has become a beacon of hope and inspiration, often referred to as the ‘Nobel Prize for young Africans.’ The awards celebrate young people aged between 18 and 31 who have demonstrated remarkable achievements across various sectors, from public service and entrepreneurship to creativity and social innovation.

These high-achieving individuals are vetted through the TFAA selection process, renowned for its rigour and transparency. This ensures that only the most deserving young Africans are chosen. This year’s judging process will commence with the Central Working Committee (CWC), followed by evaluations from the Independent Audit Committee (IAC), before the esteemed jury makes the final selections.

On the jury selection, Ayodeji Razaq, Executive Director of The Future Awards Africa (TFAA), said, “The Future Awards are all about celebrating creativity and excellence, so choosing the right jury is crucial. After thorough consideration, we’re confident we’ve assembled a remarkable group of experts whose unbiased perspectives and deep expertise will play a key role in recognising and honouring Africa’s most deserving talents.”

Proudly supported by our valued partners, Vesti, Infinix Mobile, Dukiya Investment, and Knorr, this 18^th edition boasts an extraordinary jury of leaders and innovators who have made indelible marks in their respective fields. These distinguished individuals include:

• Paul Onwuanibe – Founder & Group CEO, Landmark Group
• ID Cabasa – Nigerian Music Producer & Innovator
• Omoyemi Akerele – Founder & CEO, Lagos Fashion Week
• Nkemdilim Uwaje Begho – Founder & CEO, Future Software Resources Ltd.
• Ikenna Ogbudimkpa – Development Sector Professional, Youth Advocate
• Tega Oghenejobo – COO, Mavin Global
• Yemisi Akinbobola – Co-founder, African Women in Media (AWiM)
• Olumide F. Makanjuola – Human Rights Activist, Storyteller
• Obinna Okerekeocha – Creative & Content Director, Multi-media Artist
• Adetutu Laditan – Brand and Marketing communications strategist
• Ifeoma Okonkwo – Director of Finance, Mavin Records

Paul Onwuanibe, Founder & Group CEO of Landmark Group, expressed the jury’s enthusiasm, stating, “It is a great honour to serve on the jury for The Future Awards Africa, an inspiring platform renowned for celebrating exceptional young people who have blazed new trails in their respective endeavours across the continent. We are dedicated to a rigorous and impartial selection process, ensuring that this prestigious award accurately represents the exceptional and groundbreaking accomplishments of Africa’s brightest. By harnessing our collective expertise, we aim to honour the outstanding achievements of those redefining Africa’s future.

The IAC, tasked with ensuring the integrity of the selection process, comprises the following industry leaders:

• Cynthia Mbamalu – Director of Programs, Yiaga Africa
• Ope Ajayi – Founder & CEO, Cinemax Distribution Limited
• Gbemi Olateru-Olagbegi – Co-founder & Co-executive Producer, TNC Africa
• Ayo Mario-Ese – Anchor, Arise News Channel
• Oyinkansola Fawehinmi (Foza) – Founder, Zaeda Oracle
• Bola Lawal – CEO, Premia Business Network (PBN)
• Damilola Olokesusi – Co-founder & CEO, Shuttlers
• Femi Bakre – CEO, Kraks Media
• Tolani Alli – Renowned Nigerian Photographer
• Kayode Kasum – Director & Producer
• Latasha Ngwube – Nigerian journalist, media personality and Advocate

The Future Awards Africa is grateful to its esteemed panel for their invaluable contributions to the selection process and their commitment to advancing the cause of young African leaders. For more information, visit our website or follow us on social media @tfaafrica.

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About The Future Awards Africa

The Future Awards Africa, often hailed as the continent’s most important award for young Africans, is dedicated to celebrating and empowering young leaders who are shaping Africa’s future. Through its annual awards program, TFAA shines a spotlight on the incredible achievements of young Africans, providing them with the recognition and support they need to continue their transformative work.