The “Humanitarian and Goodwill Award of Recongnition” is judged by a distinguished panel of industry leaders, ensuring a fair and thorough evaluation of each entry. Our judges are selected based on their business expertise, experience, and integrity.
Read through our Judge Council Brochure before your application to become a Judge on our upcoming award event.
Funmilayo Oyekanmi, founder and leader of HSSN Africa, is a dynamic project manager and innovator with extensive experience in business and social impact projects. She is a 25 Under 25 Awardee for Social Impact and is committed to social equity for Africa’s disadvantaged youth. Funmilayo has achieved outstanding results in projects like Project Shaka Byinshi in Rwanda and Project GirlPower in Nigeria, as well as Project Education to Employment in Oyo, Nigeria. She collaborated with KELIN in Nairobi to protect adolescents’ reproductive health rights. Funmilayo has extensive fundraising experience in agriculture, finance, and renewable energy. Passionate about social justice and youth empowerment, she is dedicated to fostering long-term opportunities and inclusive growth.
Rita Babalola is a seasoned HR Manager and Talent Acquisition Specialist with over a decade of experience. As the Lead Consultant and Co-Founder of BeaconGate Limited, she specializes in resume writing, career coaching, job interview preparation, and salary negotiation. With a background in business strategy, she has led various HR and recruitment projects, making a significant impact in the industry. With an MBA in Human Resources Management and Services from Lagos State University and a PGD in Management from the University of Calabar, Rita is a valuable asset in the HR field.
Nkem Chinwe Offonabo is a renowned HR leader with over 15 years of experience in HR strategy, employee wellbeing, and organizational transformation. As the VFD Group Head of HR and founder of The Work-Life Organisation, she has successfully implemented HR frameworks, policies, and wellness programs to enhance productivity and employee satisfaction. Nkem’s expertise includes talent acquisition, performance management, and organizational development. She is an accomplished author and recognized among Africa’s top 100 career women and top 40 HR leaders in Nigeria. Her commitment to excellence and innovative approach has earned her global recognition and numerous accolades.
Samuel Ajiboyede is a visionary entrepreneur and leader who has revolutionized industries through technology. He founded Zido, a global goods and service distribution platform, and Rowvar, a platform for affordable properties. His work with General Electric on hybrid power solutions has reduced operational costs and reduced Africa’s carbon footprint. Samuel also created the Harnod Energy concept, extending electric vehicle driving ranges. With expertise in AI, fintech, mobility, and real estate, he has built several multi-million-dollar companies. He is a global speaker, mentor, and host of the LinkedIn Live show “Exceptional With Sam.”
Tonye V. Briggs, a seasoned corporate executive with over 29 years of experience in various industries, is the Chief Executive Officer of Titania Lighting Services Nigeria Limited and Rockworth Limited. He specializes in strategic planning, business expansion, and client retention. Tonye is dedicated to driving business growth through a motivated team and has experience managing P&L, sourcing new product offers, and creating a dynamic work environment. With a B.Ed in Chemistry and an MBA from the University of Liverpool, Tonye has a proven track record of achieving company objectives and supporting clients.
Dr. Sunny Akpoyibo, a Nigerian renewable energy consultant and carbon finance expert, is driving the green economy in the Niger Delta region. As the Founder and Chairman of ASTEVEN Group of Companies, he leads efforts in green energy finance and designs energy-efficient projects across Africa. As the President of the Council for Renewable Energy Nigeria (CREN), he advocates for sustainable energy solutions and established the Asteven Renewable Energy Academy (ASREA) to provide specialized training in renewable energy. His commitment to off-grid solutions has improved communities’ quality of life.
Olukayode Omotayo Awosanya, the Founder and CEO of Zercom Systems, has over 15 years of experience in managing large-scale enterprise IT projects. He has co-founded Tangerine LMS, implementing strategic initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and boost revenue. Tayo’s commitment to innovation ensures his companies remain at the forefront of the technology landscape. Under his guidance, Zercom Systems has grown into a leading technology solutions provider known for excellence in service delivery and customer satisfaction. With a Master’s degree in Computer Systems Management from the University of Maryland University College and a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Bowie State University, Tayo’s dedication to continuous improvement and passion for technology drive his success and inspires his team to achieve outstanding results.
Chancy Ng’oma, Co-Founder and CEO of KCHKNA Inc., aims to address waste management and power generation in Africa by building waste-to-energy power plants. He also serves as the National Director at GALAMAD AEROSPACE and is a board member of Eco Hub and SEEDGRO. With a Master’s degree in Finance from Amity University and certifications in Green Investments and Leadership from Harvard University, Chancy is a leader in promoting a greener future for Africa. His dedication to renewable energy and sustainability is evident in his work.
Matini Janepher is an entrepreneur in Uganda who focuses on addressing poverty and gender economic inequalities among rural women. She is Co-Founder and Finance Manager of Women Income Network (WIN), which promotes maggot farming and provides resources. With a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Makerere University, she has gained recognition for her innovative approach and earned a Resolution Fellowship in 2021 and a Jim Leach Fellow in the MasterCard Entrepreneurship Program at Queens University, Canada in 2022. Matini is also a grant winner from the Peer Learning Network of the Open Data Institute, UK, in collaboration with Microsoft Corporation.
Babajide Duroshola is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in tech, banking, and consulting. He has expertise in management, strategy, business operations, expansion, and marketing. Duroshola has led the growth of SafeBoda in Nigeria and has held positions at Access Bank and Phillips Consulting. He is a member of Black Ops and a Limited Partner at Rally Cap Ventures, focusing on fintech investments in emerging markets. Babajide’s commitment to fostering strong, scalable companies is reflected in his active participation in industry-leading initiatives and communities. His vision continues to shape the future of technology and entrepreneurship in Africa.
Abbas Agbaje is a seasoned ESG and Impact professional with over 12 years of experience in integrating environmental and social considerations into investment advisory and operations for multimillion-dollar projects in West Africa. As the Managing Consultant at ImpactCrest Consulting, he uses his expertise in ESIA, ESMS, and Green Finance to provide advisory services across various industries. Abbas has worked with prominent development partners like the AfDB, World Bank Group, and InfraCo Africa. He holds professional affiliations with the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment, IEMA, IAIA, and the Nigeria Environmental Society.
Olubori Paul Kehinde is a financial literacy coach, product marketer, and sales expert with extensive experience in Africa. As the founder and CEO of Go-Learn Africa, he has led initiatives to bridge the financial gap through focused learning and inclusivity. Olubori has trained over 7,000 people on money management, earning him recognition as one of the 30 most influential Africans. He is currently a Sales Team Lead at Spark, connecting over 100 million Africans financially. With a degree from the University of Uyo and Human Resources qualifications from CIPM Nigeria, Olubori continues to make significant strides in financial literacy and empowerment.
Mayowa Owolabi, co-founder of PaddyCover, is a pioneer in digital financial services with a mobile-first approach. Passionate about technology, mobile, digital finance, insurance, and the internet, he has significantly advanced these sectors in Nigeria. He co-founded Mobile Monday and consults on mobile financial services, business strategy, m/e-commerce, market entry, and business development. With expertise in information technology, business development, business strategy, m-commerce, e-commerce, mobile advertising, and mobile strategy, Mayowa is a director at Uniswitch, a member of PremiaBN, and a non-executive director at CiCo. He holds a certificate in entrepreneurial management from Pan-Atlantic University and an Executive Masters in Project Management from Project Management College.
Oladotun Oyetade, founder and CEO of Crand Technologies, is a chemical engineering graduate from Obafemi Awolowo University. He has been leading the company since April 2021 and has also served as Product Leader at Dtunes.ng since August 2021. Oladotun’s journey has been marked by resilience and adaptability, especially as a solo founder. He has assembled a team of dedicated technical professionals to realize the company’s vision. Oladotun is also the Creative Director at Jamestad Interiors Limited, specializing in interior decorating and design. His career combines technical proficiency, strategic leadership, and creative vision, making him a prominent entrepreneur in the tech and design sectors.
Kunle Bamigboye, CEO and co-founder of Coventi, is a prominent figure in the event media production and video-streaming industry. With a background in Media Tech, Community, and Partnership management, he has grown Coventi into a significant player in the media industry. With a strategic vision to expand the user base, develop products, attract top talent, and secure early-stage funding, he has built business partnerships and developed innovative solutions for the media and entertainment sectors. Kunle also serves as a Director at Lead Innovative, where he drives product management and innovation. His education at the University of Ilorin and the Chicago Institute of Business provides a solid foundation in sales and leadership.
Ajulo Anthony, co-founder and Managing Partner of Colton Group Limited, is a dynamic entrepreneur and industrialist with a diverse portfolio in manufacturing, construction, industrial chemicals, specialty building materials, FMCG manufacturing, and ICT. With an MBA in Marketing from Obafemi Awolowo University and membership with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), Ajulo’s strategic approach and innovation capacity are backed by his education and practical expertise. Ajulo is also a motivational speaker, sharing insights on personal development and business growth with a vast LinkedIn following of over 357,000. His leadership at Colton Group continues to drive the company’s expansion and success across multiple industries.
Femi is the Managing Director of “News Across the Land” Media Ltd. and “News Across the Land Publishing,” both subsidiaries of “News Across the Land Group.” This family-owned media conglomerate operates a couple of local newspapers, a news app, news websites, and local radio stations. Femi began his media career in 2018 and has extensive experience in regional media across Nigeria. He has overseen the launch of a couple of local newspapers, including the “2019 Newspaper of the Year” – “The Lagos Independent.” Femi is also the Managing Director of “Velvet,” a lifestyle magazine recognized as “Regional Magazine of the Year” in the 2018 News Awards.
Babatunde Akin Moses, CEO and co-founder of Sycamore, is revolutionizing Nigeria’s financial services by leveraging unconventional data for credit scoring. With extensive experience in both private and public sectors, Babatunde has a bachelor’s degree in Economics, a chartered accountant, and an MBA from Lagos Business School. He is also a chartered accountant and has completed an exchange program at IESE Business School. Sycamore aims to make finance accessible and equitable, enabling individuals and businesses to achieve their financial goals. His dynamic approach and innovative vision continue to drive Sycamore’s growth and impact in the fintech space.
Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, the founding partner of Future Africa, is a visionary leader who has invested in over 100 companies worth over $6 billion in fintech, edtech, healthtech, and agritech. His investments include Uber drivers in Nigeria’s Moove and African tech talent charter cities Itana. With a background in Legal and International Studies from the University of Waterloo, Iyinoluwa is passionate about social justice and international development. He co-founded Flutterwave and Andela, two of Africa’s most valuable startups, and has been recognized as a Forbes 30 Under 30 and a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader.
Leke Oshiyemi, CEO and Lead Consultant at Rekrut Consulting Ltd., is a seasoned HR professional with over 20 years of experience in manufacturing, services, and technology sectors. With a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Lagos, Leke has a strong background in employee engagement, performance management, and talent development. He has provided consulting and business support services to various clients, including Nigerian Breweries, FrieslandCampina WAMCO, and Tetra Pak West Africa. Leke is a certified HR professional with affiliations to ACIPM, NITAD, and SHRM. His dedication to human capital development has made him a sought-after HR advisor, training expert, and entrepreneur in Nigeria and beyond.
Nigeria Liability Insurance Pool’s Managing Director and CEO, Adeyinka Adekoya, has been in the role since October 2021. With over three decades of experience in the insurance sector, Adeyinka has a strong background in risk management and operations. He has previously served as the Managing Director at Coronation Insurance Plc and as the General Manager of Risk Management at Cornerstone Insurance Plc. Adeyinka began his career at Lambert Willis & Associates and later at Law Union Insurance Plc. He holds a Master of Business Administration and another MBA focused on Insurance from the University of Lagos.
Theo Manafa, CEO of RaceTelecoms Technologies Limited, has over 28 years of experience in the telecommunications and ICT industry. He has worked in North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa, starting with sales and repairs of Compaq Desktop computers. Theo is dedicated to bridging the digital gap between Africa and the developed world, focusing on FinTech, AI, digital identity, and technology hub development. With a B.Sc. in Business Studies from the University of Greenwich and an architectural degree from the Architectural Association School of Architecture in London, Theo seeks partnerships and investors who share his belief in Africa’s potential as a global technology and business hub.
Oswald Umeh, Co-Founder and Principal Software Engineer at bluHat Software, has over two decades of experience in software development. He specializes in Microsoft stack, front-end technologies, application hosting, DevOps, and runtime operations using tools like Apache Kafka, Docker, Kubernetes, and Microsoft Azure. With a Bachelor of Applied Science in Physics from Abia State University, Umeh is passionate about software architecture and design patterns, and is dedicated to exploring mobile operating systems and developing applications for them.
K-Kay Kanu, a seasoned energy industry executive, has been the Deputy Managing Director at West African Exploration and Production since September 2017. With a wealth of experience, he has managed complex projects, driven strategic initiatives, and identified exploration opportunities. His leadership and management skills have been instrumental in achieving company goals and fostering growth. K-Kay actively participates in industry conferences and discussions, sharing insights and collaborating with peers to advance the sector. His dedication to excellence and innovation continues to contribute significantly to West African Exploration and Production’s success.
Uchenna Nnodim, Co-Founder and CEO of RavenBank, is a Nigerian financial technology company based in Lagos State. With a strong background in software engineering, he has experience in various programming languages and frameworks, including C#, Java, Kotlin, Dart, and full-stack web development. He also has expertise in mobile development for Android and iOS platforms and technologies like Apache Kafka, Docker, Kubernetes, and Microsoft Azure. RavenBank focuses on creating personalized financial tools for individuals and businesses across Africa. Nnodim has held leadership positions, including Chairman of ELATECH Limited and Co-Founder/CTO of IONS TECH.
Jehu Omoruku, CEO and Co-Founder of GoldTouch Technologies Ltd, is a Nigerian technology expert with over 17 years of experience in AI, Virtual Reality, Blockchain, mobile, and cloud technologies. He has expertise in Windows and web application development using technologies like C#.NET, ASP.NET, SQL Server, and Oracle. Jehu has held positions as Senior International Expert at GFA Consulting Group GmbH and Lead Solutions Architect at Tavia Technologies, leading the development and deployment of solutions based on Microsoft technologies like SharePoint, Microsoft Azure, and Office 365. He holds an Executive MBA in Marketing and a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science.
Soledad Edjumole is an Executive Assistant at Truth Zombie Concept in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. With a strong background in administration and communication, she has expertise in business planning, retail, and administrative functions. She is fluent in both Spanish and English, expanding her knowledge base. Since August 2022, she has been a Spanish tutor at a local language academy. Soledad earned a Bachelor’s degree in Soil Science and Technology from the Federal University of Technology Owerri in December 2022. She is driven by a thirst for knowledge and commitment to personal and professional growth.
Babajide Milton Macaulay, Ph.D., EMBA, is an environmental scientist and entrepreneur with over 12 years of experience. He has contributed to environmental mitigation through projects on groundwater arsenic contamination, bioremediation of crude oil spills, medical waste management, and microplastic exposure. His current research focuses on generating biogas from organic waste to promote a sustainable bio/circular economy in Africa. Macaulay teaches Environmental Sustainability at the Federal University of Technology, Akure and mentors African students and professionals through his educational consulting firm, iLLUMANIA.
The Humanitarian and Goodwill Award of Recognition recognizes small and medium-sized businesses’ innovation, courage, and leadership. Join us in recognizing those whose entrepreneurial spirit propels our economy forward.
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