By Patience Chat Moses
It was a whirlwind of inspiration, a celebration of African female brilliance, and a perfect kickoff to International Women’s Day. Forget your average Tuesday, March 5th was a full-blown festival of phenomenal women!
The 2025 FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Awards ceremony, held in Pretoria, South Africa, was a testament to the power of women’s leadership and excellence. This year’s event was notable for its recognition of young achievers who are making waves in their respective fields.
Two remarkable young women, Eniola Shokunbi and Hephzibah Akinwale, both just 12 years old, were among the standout winners. Shokunbi, a children’s health advocate and innovator, was honoured with the Young Achiever Award for her tireless efforts to improve air quality in classrooms worldwide. Akinwale, a budding author, took home the Next Generation Award for writing the longest fiction novel by a child author, a remarkable achievement that showcases her creativity and talent.
Other notable awardees included Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award for her outstanding contributions to global economic development. Arunma Oteh, a renowned expert in finance and development, was recognized as the Changemaker of the Decade for her groundbreaking work in promoting economic growth and development in Africa.
The event also celebrated the achievements of Tiwa Savage, a music icon who has broken barriers and inspired countless young women with her talent and determination. Minnie Dlamini, a South African entrepreneur and entertainer, was honoured for her excellence in entertainment, a testament to her hard work and dedication to her craft.
The 2025 FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Awards ceremony was a powerful reminder of the impact that women can have when allowed to shine. As we celebrate these remarkable women, we are inspired to continue pushing boundaries and striving for excellence in all that we do.