Forbes Africa have released their annual 30 under 30 list, highlighting the best talent the continent has to offer under the age of 30.
In previous years, the list has featured names such as Mr. Eazi, Lloyd Harris, Sho Madjozi, Burna Boy, Davido, Shamim Nabuuma Kaliisa, Nasty C and Wizkid to name a few.
This year’s list, the sixth edition, features young Africans who are innovative entrepreneurs, IT geeks, sports stars, and important creatives making their own way.
This list marks a historic turn as many businesses and brands were adversely affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. The editorial team curating the list sifted through countless nominations looking for resourcefulness and resilience in candidates, so crucial at this time in rebuilding and contributing to the African growth story.
Their extensive research was also vetted by audit partner, SNG Grant Thornton, and a panel of judges and subject-matter experts on the continent.
Here’s the Forbes Africa 30 under 30 2021 list
From South Africa
- Cleo Johnson, the founder and director of NUECLEO.
- Lebohang Moeletsi Phadi, CEO of Basadi Logistics.
- Deborah Mutwemwa, founder and CEO Tsumbo Scott Incorporated.
- Bontle Tshole, CEO and founder of BAAA Health.
- Hertzy Kabeya, founder and CEO of The Student Hub.
- Mihlali Ndamase, creative and digital influencer
- Kabelo Motha (also known as Kabza De Small), a record producer and DJ
- Kgaogelo Moagi (also known as Master KG), a musician and record producer
- Li-Chi Pan, an art director, and digital influencer and also the founder of Li Chi Pan Studios
- Lukhanyo Am, a professional rugby player
- Julio “Beast” Bianchi, a professional gamer
- Cheslin Kolbe, a professional rugby player
- Thabo Moloi from South Africa, a professional gamer
From Nigeria
- Timilehin Bello, CEO and founder of Media Panache.
- Temidayo Oniosun, founder of Space in Africa
- Amarachi Nwosu, a self-taught visual artist, storyteller, and CEO of Melanin Unscripted
- Divine Ikubor (better known as Rema), musician
- Ifan Ifeanyi Michael, a creative artist and filmmaker
- Wale Lawal, founder and editor-in-chief of The Republic
From Zimbabwe
- Shakemore Timburwa from Zimbabwe, founder of Energy Plus
- Tendai Kevin Zhou from Zimbabwe, founder of VP Hostings
From Uganda
- Brian Kakembo, founder, and CEO of Weye Clean Energy Co. Ltd.
- Felix Byaruhanga, founder of Skyline media and Management LTD
From Ghana
- Sepenica Darko, founder of FarmerTribe Company.
From Kenya
- Harrykrishna Niadassen Poonoosamy Padiachy from Mauritius, founder of NKH Energy
- James Kang’aru Mwangi from Kenya, founder and CEO of Epitome School of Chess
From Namibia
- Reinhard Mahalie, a fashion stylist and also the founder of RM Fashion Styling
From Malawi
- Hayze Engola from Malawi, a musician, creative, and also the founder of KNQR Investments
From Zambia
- Tilka Paljk from Zambia, swimmer
From Cape Verde
- Antonio Depina from Cape Verde, founder, Overseas Basketball Connection, Praia League
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Here are the cover stars
“The Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 list is our most coveted list of the year, and what makes this year’s compilation even more compelling is the fighting spirit of the candidates who made it through a turbulent year. They need to be honored for their tenacity as leaders charting a non-linear trajectory to success, and they are also representative of Africa’s greater talent trove that they will in turn help shine a light on,” says Renuka Methil, managing editor of Forbes Africa.
