The female powerhouses in FORBES AFRICA’S OVER 30 UNDER 50 list – compiled for the second consecutive year-are the business leaders, musicians, models, movie stars, innovators and entrepreneurs who have intent and impact on their vision boards, as they scale greater heights, reinvent themselves and rewrite the rules in their 30s and 40s.
Reinvention is not to be taken lightly. Just ask the women in their 30s and 40s doing just that, armed with a tote bag filled with hard-learned lessons and a playbook stuffed with life notes.
These women will tell you that their 20s were spent wearing out their heels, to be able to bring their true selves to work and confidently stride into the next chapters of their life – the thriving 30s and fabulous 40s – that they are determined to script themselves. They are defying society’s conventional definitions of success to boldly stand out from the crowd – in their pointed Manolo Blahniks. “The biggest lie we have ever been told is that we are stagnant at this stage. I am thriving; I love my 30s,” says Rawdah Mohamed, a Somali-Norwegian model and activist, to FORBES AFRICA.
“In your 20s, you think you have this deadline; you have this rush and unnecessary anxiety. And then you come into your 30s – you’re settled and you have better self-esteem. You love your life. Then you meet other women in their 30s and they’re also thriving. Life is just so much calmer and better, and there’s quality in everything.”
The Over 30 Under 50 list is inspired by formidable women, from age 30 to 49, who are reaching career peaks, in addition to fulfilling their roles and responsibilities as daughters, wives and mothers.
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But the balance between the personal and professional – particularly for women with ambitious career goals and children and/or parents to look after – is often portrayed as unachievable.
“What’s interesting about that narrative is that ‘state of play’ was imposed on women in their 30s and 40s,” explains award-winning Ugandan-British actor, singer, composer, and play-wright, Sheila Atim.
“It wasn’t innate to us; what I mean by that is it’s not that we suddenly fall off a cliff and sink into irrelevance and inertia after we turn 30. It’s that certain industries had decided for us [that] they would shut us out, or decided that it was too complicated to work with women who also want to be mothers. They had their kind of arbitrary ideals about what to prioritize when it came to ‘platforming’ (placing on a pedestal) women, supporting women, and raising women. And it’s a massive conversation with so many branches.”
Lisa Z. Lindahl, in a 2024 Forbes opinion piece, queried, Is This The Age Of Women in Leadership? Lindahl found that, as of 2023, women held 10.4% of leadership positions at Fortune 500 companies. She also noted that there were a total of 52 women running businesses on the Fortune 500 list at the time – an all-time high.
“The most profitable Fortune 500 companies, according to a 2007 study, also had the highest percentage of women directors,” she writes.
However, a 2021 report from McKinsey & Company, co-authored with LeanIn.org, found that only 86 women are promoted to the position of manager for every 100 men, across all industries.
In their Women in the Workplace 2024 report, they noted that women’s representation had increased at every level of corporate management over the past decade, but that progress had been much slower at the entry and manager levels.
However, equitable representation at every level is an important part of fostering growth and advancement in the workplace.
“There were few women that we could look up to as role models,” Doris Ahiati, CEO and Co-founder, of Crescendo Consult, says to FORBES AFRICA. “I set out that, by the time I was [at] age 40, I would like to be a CEO to serve as an inspiration to other women, especially girls, so that they wouldn’t feel like there’s a certain glass ceiling when you get here [and] you can’t go any further. I have this written as a goal on my performance contract, wherever I work.”
It’s much the same in the creative industry. This is according to Ana F. Borges, Co-founder and Creative Director at Itsanashow Studio, who wrote a LinkedIn opEd and a blog online, titled, Why is there a lack of women in the creative industry, and what can we do about it? “Women are still struggling to break into the creative industry at the same rate as men, particularly in technology and video games. To break through another glass ceiling, we should work on encouraging, supporting, and creating opportunities for this next generation of working women to take leadership roles in creative industries and build equity,” Borges notes.
Surprisingly, breaking the glass ceiling is not always top of mind for the women on this list – their focus is on ensuring that they are paving a path for others.
Captain Londy Ngcobo, for instance, is Africa’s first female dredge master and passionate about unlocking the continent’s ocean economy. More importantly, she has dedicated her 16 years in the maritime industry to ensuring that she “pushes past the narrative of multiplying as a woman and that there are more youth, more Captain Londys, more little BlaqMermaids [as she is known]”.
Ntsiki Biyela, who became the first Black female winemaker in South Africa, was unfazed by the male-dominated liquor industry. She had grown up with boys so that was not the difficult part.
“The only difficult part of entering the [wine] industry was figuring out how to navigate the different culture…,” she says, “but I like introducing myself to people. I don’t like the word ‘networking’ because I like building connections and friendships.”
For the women in this age cohort, it’s about acknowledging the statistics but also following it up with concerted action. They would rather embrace the opportunity to adapt to challenges and create success stories.
“I feel like we need to stop focusing on the naysayers; people who keep saying the things that don’t make sense,” Grammy-nominated Nigerian singer, Yemi Alade says to FORBES AFRICA.
“We need to shed more light on the people who say the truth about reality and the positives, which is that ‘if you believe it, you can achieve it’. Age is not the restriction and age is not the determinant. It’s all about what is in your mind. Just go for it.”
“What Iwant women in entertainment to know is that I don’t want them to be limited by just being on screen,” says South African actor and TV personality, Minnie Dlamini. “There’s so much more in this industry. But more than that though, I want people to look at my journey and realize that I didn’t do things conventionally. I didn’t do things the same way everyone did.”
These are the resolute and resilient women gracing the pages that follow. Their stories exemplify both bravado and brilliance, and are about breaking new ground.
Editor’s note: The list is unranked and in no particular order.
METHODOLOGY:
FORBES AFRICA opened nominations for the Over 30 Under 50 list for the first time, and our editorial and research team spent weeks reviewing, researching and interviewing the potential candidates to ensure the best were featured but well representing the existing talent pool on the continent. Following comprehensive criteria, listers between the ages of 30 and 50 (in 2025) had to demonstrate years of success in their field. Importance was placed on impact. Only 15 individuals made our inaugural list last year. This year, we feature 25, from across Africa.
SHEILA ATIM
Uganda • 34
Actor, singer, composer and playwright Industry • Entertainment
In 2022, Sheila Atim made her way to South Africa to film a movie that, to this day, has had a profound impact on her.
It would explore themes like racism, gender-based violence, and female oppression, to name a few, and most of which still plague Africa today. It’s a story that Atim believes stands the test of time.
Alongside award-winning actors, Viola Davis and Thuso Mbedu, the film is about a fierce, all-female warrior regiment that protects the African Kingdom of Dahomey in the 1800s.
“There are many other [defining] moments in my career. I don’t just only value the things that get lots of public traction. Things that feel like they’ve genuinely touched people mean a lot [to me]. I know it sounds like a sort of obvious thing to say, but it is the truth.”
Atim was born in Uganda and moved to the United Kingdom with her mother when she was five months old. Growing up in Essex, she was always a creative child, and her mother embraced that about her. “I give a lot of credit to my mum because she was progressive in her thinking at that moment [when I decided I wanted to be in the entertainment industry]. A big part of it [was] about allowing her to understand and experience what I was doing, for herself,” Atim says after recalling the time her mother watched her star in Jesus Christ Superstar at school.
This was after her mother had told her that, as a final-year student, if she was planning on doing her A-levels in drama, she could not do the show.
“I lied, and auditioned for the school show anyway, and I didn’t tell her that that’s what I’ve been doing after school. They were selling tickets to the parents, and I just gave her a letter… I was playing Mary Magdalene so I was very visible,” she recalls with a laugh.
“I remember in the car afterwards, my mom was really proud and really happy. She has always been very supportive of my artistic side.”
Soon after, Atim thought she would be going to medical school to become a doctor. But following a rejection and the subsequent disappointment, she went on to study biomedical science, earning her degree at King’s College London. She continued to pursue music during the time.
“At first I thought I was just going to be a singer and songwriter, and then that ended up expanding into so much more because of the different artistic avenues I was going down while I was studying in London.”
Atim looks back at these moments, excited to be at the forefront of storytelling, especially as an African actor. She also continues to intentionally choose projects that consist of upliftment, growth and truth. Atim sees it as her duty to play a wide array of roles, but to also bring a level of authenticity to every one of those characters.
“Storytelling, whether it’s through song, dance, literal storytelling or the written word, is such a huge and intrinsic part of most African cultures, if not all. And for us to be able to transmute that now into broader avenues of expression, and avenues of expression that have a place on the global stage, is really important. And I feel like it’s something we’re owed.
“Africans, African culture, and the diaspora have been contributing to mainstream culture forever – that’s not a new thing. But to be able to lead the charge on our work and be credited for it directly and reap direct benefits from it as well is a wonderful development.” And on the multifarious opportunities there are, she says: “I think greeting each with curiosity and the attitude that there’s always something new to learn, and what a wonderful thing to be able to apply to your craft in multiple different ways. I think that’s really exciting.”
ANNA DIOM
Senegal • 38
Founder, AfroMaternity Industry • Healthcare and Wellness
It was 2021, and Anna Diom was at her desk in an office in Dubai, locked in a heated debate with a client over project delays. As a management consultant with a decade of experience, she was no stranger to high-pressure negotiations, but something inside her snapped.
“I was thinking, ‘what am I doing here?’ ” Diom says to FORBES AFRICA.
“I’d just helped a woman bring a life into the world as a doula, and now I was back to helping shareholders get richer. It felt hollow.”
That incident ignited a series of life-altering decisions. She quit her high-paying, tax-free job, and moved to Senegal to focus on her newfound passion: supporting women through their journeys of pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding.
Initially, Diom named her venture ‘Sama Doula’, a nod to her role as a birth companion. But as her expertise expanded — earning certifications in childbirth education and breastfeeding consultancy — it became clear the name no longer captured the length and breadth of the services she provided.
“So, three months ago, I rebranded,” Diom explains. “Now it’s AfroMaternity. It’s broader and speaks directly to my audience.”
She now serves clients across Africa, including in Senegal, the Ivory Coast, and Burkina Faso as well as in the West, namely, France, Canada, and the West Indies.
The road hasn’t been without its hurdles. In the early days, Diom provided in-person support during births, a service that brought moments of joy but also heartbreak.
“One of my worst days was watching a doctor push for an unnecessary C-section,” she recalls.
“It’s common in private clinics here because it’s more profitable. As a doula, I can’t override medical decisions, but it felt like I failed the mother.”
Diom’s work has not gone unnoticed. She was featured in a documentary by Brut Afrique and has collaborated with the African Media Agency to train journalists on breastfeeding awareness. “When a mother tells me, ‘I couldn’t have done this without you,’ it’s the most rewarding feeling,” she says. “I left a life of luxury for this, but I’ve never felt richer.”
TAFADZWA CHIGANGA
Sierra Leone • 38
Group Chief of Staff and Country Director (Uganda), MuduPay
Industry • Business and Entrepreneurship
During the early days of her career, Tafadzwa Chiganga worked for an investment bank that was fundraising for a manufacturing company. She uncovered a grim reality: the company’s executives had siphoned off funds while workers went unpaid for six months.
“I think this was the first time I consciously came across poverty and inequality,” she says to FORBES AFRICA.
“It broke something in me. I knew I had to do something.”
This epiphany led her to Acumen, a global organization that supports social entrepreneurship through capital. Her excitement at pitching a grant-recycling business model to the company quickly turned to humility when she learned they had been perfecting the concept for over a decade. But this wasn’t a setback, it was an invitation.
“Becoming an Acumen Fellow changed everything. It opened me up to the world of impact investment and adaptive leadership.”
Armed with newfound clarity, Chiganga immersed herself in the startup world, moving across continents to learn the intricacies of scaling businesses in diverse environments. One of Chiganga’s standout achievements has been her work with MuduPay, a financial technology company born out of discussions in her home in Sierra Leone.
“We used to host Friday nights where young people from around the world would gather and discuss challenges,” she recounts.
MuduPay has since expanded to countries like Uganda, the Ivory Coast, and Guinea.
Entrepreneurship, Chiganga admits, isn’t all victories. “We had planned every detail for an event under Craving 4 Development, our NGO [non-governmental organization]. The funders gave us a clear yes and then disappeared. When they finally resurfaced, it was a no. It felt like a betrayal,” she recalls.
Moments like these taught her valuable lessons. “Not all work guarantees results. But if the ‘no’ hits hard, it’s okay to take a day off, process it, and start again.”
Asked about work-life balance, Chiganga laughs. “There’s no such thing. There’s always a trade-off. Right now, I’m in Zimbabwe with my family, and I know my work is suffering. But I’ve learned to embrace these moments.”
Her time in Zimbabwe reminds her of her roots. “Growing up here, I didn’t aspire to be an entrepreneur because most entrepreneurs we knew were dealers, not role models.”
Changing this narrative has been her life’s work.
MINNIE DLAMINI
South Africa • 34
Actor, executive producer and TV personality Industry • Entertainment
With a career that began at a young age and as a woman who is no stranger to being in the limelight, Minnie Dlamini tells FORBES AFRICA that she believes in turning her challenges into opportunities. It’s a lesson that she only truly learned, now, in her 30s.
“I don’t think I would have been able to handle everything that I’ve handled – good and bad – all the opportunities, the resources that have been afforded to me, the resources that I’ve gone out and gotten myself, had I been younger,” Dlamini says.
“[I] needed to go through life, to be older, and to be this 34-year-old woman so that I can fully embrace everything that’s coming my way.” Having hosted a multitude of events and award shows such as the South African Music Awards (SAMAs); the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs); Miss World South Africa and the Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Awards (AMVCAs), and presented at the coveted BET Awards in Los Angeles in the U.S., Dlamini burst onto the scene in 2010 while covering the Youth Day and World Cup celebration shows.
It was not long after that she found herself immersed in the world of sports broadcasting.
“One of the things I wanted to do was to create an environment where watching sports with your male counterparts, be it with your father or significant other, was normal and just redefining how people consume sports in a mainstream entertainment way,” she says.
Her success in the entertainment industry motivated her to start her own production company, Beautiful Day Productions, which produced a pilot series called Becoming Mrs. Jones, a competition reality show called Spirit Of Mzansi, two Showmax movies; Goodbye Gogo and No Love Lost, as well as a viewer-generated content show for Channel O called Own The O.
However, as a woman, being in the public eye has not always been smooth sailing. She notes the comments made about her when she announced her divorce from her husband in 2022.
“The world is not kind to a woman who’s getting divorced, which I think is an incredibly painful narrative. I thought [that] was something completely outdated, but I had no idea that, in this day and age, I’d be ostracized for getting divorced, and that was incredibly painful,” she says.
Dlamini did not let it stop her, as she again turned her lemons into lemonade by taking part in Roast of Minnie Dlamini on Showmax.
“I used that opportunity and we had the Roast; got paid lots of money,” she explains with a smile.
“…but more than anything, I got to use it as an opportunity to laugh at myself, and as a great brand exercise. If we take the finances away, it was an incredible brand exercise for me; it was an incredible career move that was risky, but the risk definitely paid off.”
YEMI ALADE
Nigeria • 35
Singer and songwriter Industry • Entertainment
In November last year, Yemi Alade earned her first Grammy nomination in the 2025 Best African Music Performance category. That moment is already a major milestone for her.
“If you had asked me this six [or] seven years ago, I would say that success for me, personally, is when I win the Grammy. Late last year, I got nominated for a Grammy, and that honestly was a chip on my shoulder. It was a sign to continue to be myself, my original self, irrespective of what the world might think. [I need to] continue to shine in my culture, continue to shine in my personality,” she says.
Although 2024 was a memorable year for Alade, she says her journey in the industry has not always been easy. When she compares the experiences at the beginning of her career to now, Alade says the biggest challenge she has had is with herself.
“Challenges will always come up. It doesn’t matter what stage of life you are in. However, the one challenge that has stayed in my face is being consistent. That is waking up every morning and choosing to do this thing called music. It’s a challenge because nothing good comes easy,” she explains.
“In the beginning, when I had nothing but this talent to offer, it seemed to people like I was crazy, because I was waking up in the morning to go out and sing, and in an African community that makes no sense. And now where I am, at this point, comfort also becomes a huge distraction. The minute I succumb to comfort, I would not be waking up in the morning to choose music. I feel like that’s a personal challenge.”
Well-known for her feature on global icon, Beyonce’s song, The Power, Alade was the first African female Afropop artist to hit over 100 million views on YouTube and VEVO with her hit single, Johnny. It is also among Afrobeats’ biggest songs of all time. Alade released her anticipated sixth studio album, and tenth project overall, Rebel Queen, which features five-time Grammy award-winning artist Angélique Kidjo, in July.
Alade told FORBES AFRICA in an interview in 2024 that the album was a homage to her journey so far, which is why a lot of the music on the album is reminiscent of the core of Afrobeats, as she remembers it. Alade says: “I feel like history is actually in the making, and I am one of the few people holding the pen and writing history in my own time. I feel honored and privileged to experience this. To be one of the many who continue to fly the flag of African music and our culture. It’s a good time to be alive.”
SUSANNE OGUNLEYE
Nigeria • 32
CEO and co- founder, Jasmine Ultra Blue Solutions (JUBS) Industry • Healthcare
Susanne Ogunleye’s first experience in motherhood was both tender and tumultuous. Months before, she had stepped away from a promising career to embrace this new role full-time. Yet, the
pause in her professional life unearthed a profound realization.
“I felt what it meant to not be independent. It opened my eyes to the struggles women endure,” Ogunleye recounts to FORBES AFRICA.
The resolve to reclaim her independence and pave the way for others to do the same led to the formation of Jasmine Ultra Blue Solutions (JUBS), a company focused on healthcare and wellness products.
Ogunleye’s journey wasn’t linear. She credits her transition from entrepreneurship to leadership as a defining chapter, fueled by the Mandela Washington Fellowship.
The fellowship led her to form partnerships across Africa and collaborate with organizations like the LeadHership Foundation in Namibia and Future Females in South Africa.
“I used to teach about balance when I had one child and a single business,” Ogunleye says as she lets out a soft laugh.
“Now, with three kids and multiple roles, I’ve realized balance isn’t static — it’s dynamic.”
She details her strategy: dedicating 100% of her attention to whatever task is at hand, whether it’s a two-hour board meeting or an hour spent picking her children up from school. Her secret to making this work is a robust support system.
“For women, juggling expectations at home and in the boardroom can be overwhelming. We need to preach about rest and self-care more,” she emphasizes.
True to her philosophy, JUBS now incorporates wellness programs like ice baths and stress balls, aligning with her commitment to holistic health.
“Having walked this journey, I understand the challenges. Helping other women overcome them has been one of my greatest joys,” she says. Her dream is to inspire the next generation of African women to rewrite the rules.
“If you dream it, you can achieve it,” she declares. “I want to leave this world empty, knowing I’ve poured everything into uplifting lives and communities.”
PUSELETSO MANYAKA-LESOFE
South Africa • 33 Co-founder, African Institute of Medical Scientists (AIMS)
Industry • Academia and Science
Coming from a background [that I do], where my parents are from a rural area, [science was] one of those things that I would only see in the movies and always thought interesting,” Puseletso Manyaka-Lesofe tells FORBES AFRICA.
“I think I once said in front of my mother ‘I wish I could be like that’ when the TV was on. She was like, ‘you know you can be’.”
Manyaka-Lesofe has dedicated her career to advancing public health and fostering opportunities for emerging African scientists. With over eight years of experience in diagnostic research, clinical trials, and scientific project management, Manyaka-Lesofe specializes in infectious diseases and metabolomics as a Medical Biological Scientist.
To create access and share resources with young African researchers, she co-founded the African Institute of Medical Scientists (AIMS), an institution focused on advancing the interests of medical scientists in South Africa.
The platform offers a cooperative setting where scholars, industry experts, and medical practitioners can exchange ideas, carry out ground-breaking research, and find creative answers to urgent health problems.
“My goals include expanding AIMS to provide more mentorship and resources for aspiring African scientists and to foster a new generation of researchers focused on tackling Africa’s unique health challenges,” Manyaka-Lesofe says.
Her experience as a site laboratory lead for clinical trials, particularly in HIV, Covid-19, and TB vaccine studies, recently led to her being recognized as a 2024 Mail & Guardian Power of Women in STEMI awardee.
“I’ve been elected as one of the North West University human research ethics committee members,” she adds. “I’m going to be one of the reviewers for all the health research that goes on at the university.”
NTOMBEZINHLE JIYANE MOHOSANA (DJ ZINHLE)
South Africa • 42 DJ, producer, media personality and businesswoman Industry • Entertainment and Business
As one of South Africa’s most-celebrated DJs, Ntombezinhle Jiyane Mohosana has become a house-hold name in the country’s music scene.
Having been in the industry for close to 20 years, the artist, popularly known as ‘DJ Zinhle’, told FORBES AFRICA in 2021 that she was grateful for everything she has succeeded in. She also highlighted the importance of celebrating Africa and its icons.
“It’s taken the world a long time to recognize our stories, our trials, and our triumphs and so I feel it’s of great importance that we celebrate, as a way of recognition, our own stories. That to me is important for our narrative as Africans,” she said.
She has also thrived as a businesswoman, most notably in her position as CEO of sparkling wine brand, Boulevard Nectar Rosè.
In her 2020 interview with FORBES AFRICA, following the appointment, Mohosana said: “I love to celebrate, whether it’s at my house, whether it’s at a gig.
Celebrations have also been part of my life for the past 16 years as a DJ, and Boulevard fits perfectly into that. And I just thought I wanted to be part of people’s celebrations even more.”
JULIET TUMUSIIME
Uganda • 42
CEO and co-founder, Cheveux OrganiqueIndustry • Beauty and Sustainability
What if we told you that bananas can play a bigger role in your life than just be a source of nutrition?
Juliet Tumusiime, co-founder of Cheveux Organique, has based her entire business model on the premise of sustainability. The Uganda-based business manufactures hair made from banana fibers as an alternative to synthetic extensions.
It offers 100% natural banana fiber-derived hair extensions that are eco-friendly, hypoallergenic, produce no bad odors, and are non-irritant. But, why use bananas?
It started when Tumusiime managed programs at the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), supporting the National Agricultural Research Organization in producing varieties of banana that were resistant to disease and harsh weather conditions. Through that research, they found a solution to help farmers with a bumper harvest.
“People did not know what to do with [so] many bananas,” Tumusiime says. “So, we started to have conversations internally about the commercialization of
the banana value chain, but that was only for the fruit. People made banana wine and flour but nobody thought about the rest of the plant, including the stems.”
Another aspect that sparked her interest was how much waste there was in relation to the stems. This, coupled with how toxic the synthetic hair industry can be, especially when you consider how much money goes into it, is what led to the idea of Cheveux Organique .
“People liked [this alternative] because of its properties. The hair is biodegradable. Most importantly, it’s good for the environment, and it’s good for human health because it’s hypoallergenic; it doesn’t cause allergies. It is itch-free,” she explains.
As reported by Reuters in 2015, market research firm Euromonitor International estimated that the dry hair industry in Africa, which includes weaves, extensions, and wigs, is about $6 billion a year.
Further to this, Data Bridge Market Research reports that the global hair wigs and extension market size was valued at $3.01 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $4.03 billion by 2031. Although production is Tumusiime’s biggest challenge, she believes the product is also a massive “game-changer”.
“There’s so much that is talked about in terms of environmental protection, climate change, and a lot of focus is given to different things, like plastics or carbon emissions caused from maybe cutting trees, air pollution from cars and things like that. But very little attention is given to things that are happening in the beauty industry, especially the hair industry.”
ADA NDUKA OYOM
Nigeria • 30
Founder and Executive Director, She Code Africa
Industry • Technology
Ada Nduka Oyom didn’t plan to change the world at 22. She simply wanted to solve a problem — one that was personal and persistent. She also thought of the countless other women who, like her, yearned to belong in the tech space, traditionally dominated by men.
Over eight years later, she reflects on that moment. “It wasn’t an easy decision, but it was driven by a deep sense of purpose,” Oyom says to FORBES AFRICA.
“I learned from this experience the power of starting, even when you’re not sure how everything will unfold. You don’t need all the answers to take the first step.”
The organization she founded, She Code Africa, equips African women with the skills, confidence, and community to thrive in technology.
But this wasn’t her only defining moment. Transitioning into global speaking was another milestone, as she began advocating for diversity in tech and non-profit leadership on the world stage.
“Visibility matters,” she says, adding, “Not just for yourself, but for the impact you want to create for others.”
Her tenure at global tech companies further honed her skills.
“I learned that structure and systems are critical, even in creative spaces,” Oyom adds.
Balancing her various roles has required careful intentionality. Oyom credits time-blocking as one of her most effective strategies.
“Quality over quantity is my mantra,” she shares.
Self-care is non-negotiable — moments spent reading, reflecting, or simply sitting in silence help her recharge. She often reminds herself that ‘you can’t pour from an empty cup’.
Relationships, too, require intentionality and Oyom adds that, “Communication and presence are key”.
Whether it’s spending time with loved ones or setting boundaries to protect her time, Oyom has learned the art of balancing connection with self-preservation. Over the years, she has realized that leadership is not about perfection but authenticity.
“Vulnerability is a strength. Showing up as your true self inspires others to do the same.”
NTSIKI BIYELA
South Africa • 46
Winemaker and founder, Aslina Wines
Industry • Food & Beverage
For a person who hadn’t considered the liquor industry even in her wildest dreams, Ntsiki Biyela’s career as a winemaker in South Africa is one to marvel at.
“I got a scholarship; I had no idea of the wine industry,” Biyela explains.
“It was through the scholarship from South African Airways when Iwas recruited. I [also] got the opportunity to go to Stellenbosch (wine town in the Western Cape) and study.”
Biyela graduated in 2003 with a BSc in Agriculture (Viticulture and Oenology) and joined boutique winery Stellekaya Wines as their winemaker the following year. The question then was how she could nurture her ambitions, having studied in one of the most vibrant winelands in the world.
In South Africa, the wine industry is extremely lucrative. According to a 2022 study by SA Wine Industry Information & Systems (SAWIS), the industry supported about 270,364 job opportunities across sectors, and generated ZAR56.5 billion ($3 billion) in value-add to GDP.
In an industry dominated by White, male winemakers, Biyela explains that growing up around boys allowed her the opportunity to feel comfortable around her counterparts.
From a collaboration with Californian winemaker, Helen Kiplinger, and sitting on the board of directors for the Pinotage Youth Development Academy, to winning the Diversity and Transformation Award at the 2021 Wine Harvest Commemorative Event for her pioneering work in the industry in South Africa, Biyela has made her mark.
When asked what she would have told her younger self growing up in Mahlabathini, a rural village in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province, she says, “While you’re running [in your career], don’t forget to take care of yourself. I think one of the biggest mistakes we make is we forget ourselves and just focus on the run.”
RAWDAH MOHAMED
Somalia • 34
Model and activist
Industry • Fashion
Growing up in Norway, Rawdah Mohamed never thought she would be in the fashion industry, despite fashion being a hobby her mother encouraged her to pursue.
Today, she is a successful model gracing the world’s catwalks.
“My mom [also] always said, ‘go where you’re celebrated’. I knew that I did not want to step into a space where I was not welcome, where my Blackness was going to be an issue, my Africanness was going to be an issue, and my hijab,” she says.
“I grew up with such pride in where I came from that I didn’t want to go into a space where I was devalued or they didn’t see me for what I was. So, I never had this huge dream of wanting to be in fashion.”
Years later, Mohamed would be instrumental in ensuring that inclusivity remained a top priority in the fashion industry, not only on the runway or on the pages of magazines but also behind the scenes.
“I have worked to try to fix the misconception about African women, or what it is to be a Muslim woman,” Mohamed says
“There’s always this notion that the Muslim woman is oppressed and that the African woman doesn’t know anything. [They always try to make it seem like] nothing ever comes from Africa, and [it] is always the Eurocentric way leading in beauty or culture, and especially in fashion. [It would feel like] Africa has no space in fashion. But they take our culture and our inspiration and make it their own.
“Whenever I come with something from Africa, [someone will] say ‘oh, this reminds me of Louis Vuitton’.
Then I say ‘no, it’s not Louis Vuitton, it’s a tribal thing from East Africa, and it was taken as an inspiration; Louis Vuitton took it as an inspiration in their collection’.”
From the red carpet of the Cannes Film Festival to the cover of Harper’s Bazaar, Mohamed says that her
career will always be about empowerment and upliftment, especially when it comes to the continent.
“I have to look out for my people in any way.”
DR YEMISI ADEYEYE
Nigeria • 42
Co-founder and Managing Director, Lifefount Hospital
Industry • Healthcare
In one particular night, the evening silence was deafening, broken only by the faint rustling of leaves outside Dr Yemisi Adeyeye’s new home, she recalls to
FORBES AFRICA. Heavily pregnant and alone in a quiet, underdeveloped neighborhood, she couldn’t shake the fear: what if she went into labor before dawn?
The thought lingered as her husband Ademola, a surgeon-intraining, was often away on call. She had every reason to be scared — after all, how ironic would it be for a doctor to struggle to access medical care?
This unease soon revealed a larger issue. The nearest health facility was miles away, inaccessible in the case of an emergency. Neighbors, who had learned she was a doctor, often came knocking with questions, and her home, unofficially, turned into a clinic.
So, she dreamed up a solution: Lifefount Hospital. The journey, however, was anything but smooth.
“I thought being a doctor and having a co-founder who’s a surgeon was enough to run a healthcare business,” she says, laughing.
“I gave the auditor my records, thinking I was so organized. He handed them back, saying, ‘madam, this is chaos’.”
Realizing that there were gaps in her plan, Adeyeye immersed herself in entrepreneurial education, soaking up knowledge at every opportunity.
With the hospital up-and-running in Kwara State in North Central Nigeria, Adeyeye noticed a pattern: many women, like her, were struggling to manage their businesses effectively.
This realization gave birth to the Lifefount Foundation and a cooperative society. The foundation provides free health screenings, education, and entrepreneurship training.
Meanwhile, the cooperative offers women access to low-interest loans without the bureaucratic hurdles employed by commercial banks.
“It’s a simple model: member guarantees instead of collateral,” she explains.
Despite her many roles, Adeyeye maintains a delicate balance.
“I believe in structures,” she says firmly. “I’ve trained my staff to operate independently. Policies, feedback channels, and even sanctions ensure accountability without micromanagement.”
“[It’s also about] open recommendation, a letter of commendation, support here and there. People are just excited to be part of the team. When people feel the workplace is toxic, they don’t give their best. But I make sure that it’s always a very happy place where people can deliver [at] their best capacity.
CAPTAIN LONDY NGCOBO
South Africa • 37
Africa’s irst female dredge masterIndustry • Transportation and Logistics
With over 15 years of experience, Captain Londy Ngcobo has broken barriers in a male-dominated industry and made waves in advancing Africa’s ocean economy– a journey that began in Durban, a coastal city in South Africa.
“One of my teachers, when I was growing up, said to me, ‘you like weird things, and you like standing out, you are good at maths and science; there’s this thing called maritime studies, would you consider [doing it]’,” Ngobo recalls to FORBES AFRICA.
“As you can imagine, coming from a township school with no swimming pool, I didn’t know how to swim, so it was an off-putting consideration, rather, from him, but I jumped [on] the occasion.”
That one suggestion, combined with Ngobo’s determination, led her to an inspirational career in which she received numerous accolades, including being named one of the 100 Most Influential Young South Africans in 2020 and winning awards such as Best Innovator at the Transnet Chief Executive Awards in 2017, and being included in the Walk of Fame Monument – Maritime Pioneers, and recognized as the KZN Ambassador at the Gagasi FM Shero Awards in 2020. Ngcobo also serves on various boards across the industry.
If she had to give her younger self some advice, Ngobo says it would simply be to “claim your captaincy”.
“It means knowing that you are fitting and you can captain your destiny. Because you deserve it, and there’s room [for you]. If I had done so, I would have walked less timidly and just stepped into my bold shoes a little bit more.”
CYNTHIA ERIVO
Nigeria • 38
Actor, singer, songwriter
Industry • Entertainment
At five years old, Cynthia Erivo stood on a modest stage in a South London school, clutching a shepherd’s crook. Something electric happened when her voice filled the room with a tender rendition of Silent Night. She spotted her mother Edith in the audience, smiling through tears. That moment unlocked the trajectory of Erivo’s life.
Born to Nigerian parents and raised in Stockwell in the U.K., Erivo learned early on that talent alone wouldn’t pave her path.
It was determination that carried her through a decade-long journey from London’s fringe stages to Broadway’s brightest lights. In 2015, her portrayal of Celie in the Broadway revival of The Color Purple was a masterclass in vulnerability and power, earning her the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical and a Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album.
In 2018, Erivo made her film debut in Widows and Bad Times at the El Royale, proving she could command the screen as effortlessly as she did the stage. A year later, her transformative portrayal of Harriet Tubman in Harriet cemented her place in cinematic history. Not only did she embody the legendary abolitionist, but she also co-wrote and performed Stand Up, the film’s anthem, with the project earning two Academy Award nominations.
But for all her success, in interviews, Erivo often credits her upbringing for her resilience and humility.
“I love that – the idea of being an example to young women and women of color, showing them that there are so many different characters we can play and not to be afraid of that,” she told CR Fashion Book.
ARLENE MULDER
South Africa • 39
Co-founder of WeThinkCode_Industry • Education and Technology
Arlene Mulder spent seven years as an investment banker before leaving that path, opting to rather pursue her dream of democratizing and revolutionizing education to deliver “top tech talent”. As a co-founder of WeThinkCode_ in 2016, she was able to bring that dream to life. “The launch of WeThinkCode_ was driven by my belief that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. By removing barriers to education and focusing on skills-based training, we could equip a new generation with the capabilities needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world,” Mulder tells FORBES AFRICA.
“With AI and automation reshaping industries, technological skills are more critical than ever — not just for employment, but for driving economic growth and creating solutions to real-world challenges.”
Mulder’s entire career has been defined by reinvention. She recalled how she started in investment banking, and then made the bold shift to launch WeThinkCode_ at the age of 30. A few years later, she ventured into the insurance advisory space with Dire Wolf, and, today, runs Titan Ventures, an early-stage investment firm that owns Dire Wolf and invests in high-growth companies.
“Each transition was driven by curiosity, a passion for solving problems, and a willingness to step into new industries,” Mulder says.
“There’s a prevailing belief that career growth follows a linear path, but the reality is that careers, especially for women, can and should evolve dynamically. I firmly believe that staying curious, continuously learning, and embracing change are the keys to long-term success. Women should feel empowered to take risks, pivot industries, and redefine their professional trajectories at any stage of their careers.”
PEPI SONUGA
Nigeria • 31 Actor
Industry • Entertainment
It’s the 2018 Los Angeles Film Festival, and the feature film Thriller is making its debut. As the plot unfolds, viewers find themselves drawn not just to the horror, but to Pepi Sonuga’s hauntingly nuanced performance. For many in that audience, it was the first glimpse of a star in the making.
The journey to that moment had been anything but ordinary. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Sonuga moved to Los Angeles at the age of 10. By 15, she was already turning heads, winning the title of Miss Jr. Teen Los Angeles and modeling for global brands. However, according to reports, it was during her time at Culver City High School that she found her calling in a drama class.
Some would say that Sonuga’s breakout role came in The Life of a King, where she shared the screen with Academy Award winner Cuba Gooding Jr. Television soon beckoned, and Sonuga starred in Starz’s comedy-horror series Ash vs Evil Dead and on Freeform’s family drama, The Fosters.
More recently, Sonuga co-starred in the Netflix feature, THE SIX TRIPLE EIGHT alongside Kerry Washington, Sam Waterston, and Oprah Winfrey, and has become a voice for young actors of color navigating the complexities of Hollywood.
“Seeing people who look like you – whether it’s on the big screen or behind- the-scenes – expands your idea of what’s possible. It tells kids, and even adults, ‘Your dreams are valid. You belong here.’ When I was growing up, seeing actors who shared my background made me feel seen, and I carry that with me to this day,” Sonuga told Authority Magazine.
SARAH HASSAN
Kenya • 36
Actor, producer, director and TV hostIndustry • Entertainment
Representation in entertainment and media is crucial, particularly on the global stage. Many of the African faces that have reached the far corners of the world have contributed significantly to this progress, both behind-the-scenes and in front of the camera.
One such woman is Kenyan actor, Sarah Hassan, known for her roles in television series such as Crime and Justice, Tahidi High and Zora. She also has her own production company, Alfajiri Productions.
Hassan believes in the significance of amplifying African voices, particularly those of women. She further states that their voices also enrich and shift societal understanding on different topics, challenge global perceptions and create a great appreciation for the richness and diversity of the continent.
“Not only does it give fresh perspectives but also an authentic insight into their experiences as they draw from their own lives as well as their experiences and their cultural background,” Hassan says.
“When we see ourselves reflected authentically on screen and behind the camera, it empowers the younger generation on so many levels. Representation matters, and for young girls, it proves they can be anything they want to be and ultimately be able to shape the narrative that goes out into the world.”
An important part of representation is also breaking apart the common misconception that women in their 30s and 40s often slow down in their careers. Hassan tells FORBES AFRICA that more and more women are discrediting this narrative in each industry.
“[Women are] making a real change in the world and proving that our voices are powerful. Seeing that is absolutely inspiring and creates a more positive and empowering environment for women to succeed. This is a testament to representation.”
REFILWE LEDWABA
South Africa • 46 Helicopter pilot and founder, Girls Fly Africa
Industry • Transportation and Logistics
As with many sectors, the aviation industry is male-dominated. For Refilwe Ledwaba, it was the fuel she needed to work on transforming the space. A 2022 Women in Aviation Advisory Board Report stated that, globally, fewer than 10% of licensed pilots are women and the percentage of women in maintenance fields is in single digits. Furthermore, an article by the Southern and East African Tourism Update indicates that if you zoom into those states, the numbers are more staggering.
“Female pilots comprise 9.8% of South Africa’s pilots. This places it third in the world, after India, where women comprise 12% of all pilots, and Ireland, which has 9.9% female pilots,” the article reads.
For Ledwaba, this career path was not even a viable option in the beginning.
“Initially, it wasn’t a clear choice for me to become a pilot, and the reason was because I didn’t see anybody that looked like me in the industry,” she says.
“I didn’t even know that it existed. The only time that I’ve ever seen somebody flying was on TV.”
However, the pivotal moment for her was when she flew in a plane for the first time and encountered female pilots. After finishing her BSc degree, having majored in biochemistry and microbiology, the plan was to go to medical school to become a doctor. However, outstanding fees hindered that process.
“Because I owed the university a lot of money, they didn’t give me my certificate, so I couldn’t find a job as a biologist or even go to medical school. The only job that I could find was as a cabin attendant, and that’s how I got introduced to this wonderful industry,” Ledwaba explains.
“As much as I loved being a cabin attendant, I’m a maths person; I’m a science person; I’m a curious person. So, I decided I want to become a pilot.”
Having spent over 20 years in the industry, Ledwaba often reflects on how the people around her, at the time, encouraged her to become a pilot.
“It was so weird because that was more than 20 years ago. We were just coming out of apartheid, and you wouldn’t expect a male pilot to be saying, ‘oh, you’re so smart, why don’t you fly in the air?’ ”
But as she reflects on that moment, with a smile, she remarks that the rest is history – and she became the first Black woman to become a helicopter pilot in South Africa.
“One of the biggest lessons I have learned is a simple thing: do not sweat the small stuff. We spend a lot of time focusing on the small things that we lose focus on the bigger picture,” Ledwaba says.
“The second lesson is believing in myself. I’m good at what I do, and sometimes, we do have imposter syndrome when we should not.”
BEHATI PRINSLOO
Namibia-South Africa • 36 Model
Industry • Fashion
“I am African but no one believes that,” Behati Prinsloo said in a 2010 interview with Victoria’s Secret. Having graced multiple covers of Vogue and having walked the prestigious runways of the Victoria’s Secret (VS) Fashion Show over 10 times, Behati Prinsloo mesmer- ized the industry with her stunning looks and style. She was reportedly discovered at the age of 16 by Sarah Doukas, the head of a prestigious modeling agency.
Becoming a VS angel was a career goal for Prinsloo. “There’s such a small amount of girls who are part of it, and they have such amazing and hardworking reputations,” she said in her 2018 interview with Harper’s Bazaar. “I remember when I started with the brand in 2007 how much I looked up to the women. It’s such an amazing place where you want to be as a model.”
Prinsloo’s career also seemingly defies any misconceptions that a woman’s career can become stagnant at this stage as she has successfully continued to walk runways whilst dominating boardrooms as an entrepreneur.
In 2021, she launched her line of California red-wine-bar- rel-aged tequila. “The first thing that comes to mind [when I think of women] is strength and power,” Prinsloo said to Harper’s Bazaar. “Women have such a power to change the world. It’s such an exciting time in history for us.”
DIANE ‘QALU’ KALU
Nigeria • 40
Founder, WiCare Lekota FoundationIndustry • Social Impact
In June 2015, Diane ‘Qalu’ Kalu stood at her doorstep, cradling her newborn while her two older children clung to her legs. She recalls to FORBES AFRICA that her husband, Leslie, who had left for work that morning, was usually home by then. Hours stretched into days, and any hope was silenced by a devastating phone call: he had died.
Overnight, Kalu became a widow, left to navigate the murky waters of grief while raising three children under five. In a society where widowhood often brings stigma and harmful traditions, Kalu’s world seemed to crumble. Yet, in the ashes of her loss, a spark of resilience was born.
Three years later, that spark had ignited into something bigger than Kalu could have imagined. After sharing her journey in a social media post, “I am what widowed looks like”, Kalu struck a chord with countless widows who felt invisible and unheard.
Encouraged by the overwhelming response, Kalu gathered 12 women into a virtual support group in 2019. What began as a simple safe space evolved into the WiCare Lekota Foundation, offering hope for widows in Nigeria and beyond.
Under her leadership, the foundation has reached 28 states in Nigeria and expanded to other countries, including South Africa, Botswana, Kenya, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
The foundation’s initiatives — ranging from mental health programs to educational support for the children of widows — have reportedly impacted over 10,000 women.
“Healing begins when people feel seen and heard,” Kalu says to FORBES AFRICA. “Widowhood strips away identity, but we’re here to rebuild it.”
Her journey has been one of resilience and reinvention.
“The highlight for me is seeing these women thrive,” she says.
“Through therapy sessions, conferences, and empowerment programs, I’ve learned to handle my emotions while leading with purpose. It’s taught me that mindset is everything. If your mind isn’t working, nothing is.”
Kalu also emphasizes the importance of structure in creating sustainable change. “It started as just an idea,” she says, “but with focus and strategy, we’ve created a movement.”
DORIS AHIATI
Ghana • 45
CEO and co-founder, Crescendo Consult
Industry • Finance and Investment
Fostering her ambition to become a CEO by 40, Doris Ahiati integrated her personal goal into every performance review and key performance indicator (KPI) discussion.
“I realized that challenges were opportunities in disguise. Instead of viewing tough tasks as setups to fail, I treated them as training grounds for my future,” she shares with FORBES AFRICA.
Her manifesto symbolized breaking barriers for women, dismantling the glass ceilings she had encountered, and inspiring a generation of girls to dream boldly.
Before Ahiati hit 40, she had surpassed one of her goals. She became the Country Director for the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Global.
But she wasn’t content to rest on her laurels. “I realized my passion lay in people development and finance. That’s how Crescendo Consult was born.”
Today, Crescendo Consult, where she fulfilled her CEO dream at 38, has evolved from a consultancy to an empowerment platform, mentoring professionals globally, including employees from Fortune 500 companies.
A mother of four sons, Ahiati still insists on being a handson parent.
“It wasn’t easy,” she admits, “but it was important for me to show that women can excel professionally without losing their family connection.”
She often reflects on a pivotal moment early in her career when an error in a financial report nearly derailed her.
“It was one of the worst days of my life. But owning up, apologizing and rectifying the mistake taught me the value of integrity and attention to detail.”
Ahiati envisions a future in which she’s writing books, obtaining a doctorate, and continuing to break new ground in finance and leadership. But her ultimate goal is to inspire others.
“It’s about showing women and girls that with focus, determination and support, they can achieve their dreams.”
AMIE OUATTARA KOUAMÉ
Ivory Coast • 40
Founder, Ayana Webzine and AmieK_ Consulting
Industry • Business and Entrepreneurship
In 2010, the media landscape in Francophone Africa was dominated by traditional platforms that often overlooked the voices of women. Amie Ouattara Kouamé saw an opportunity to change that with Ayana, which means ‘beautiful flower’. “Start with a clear purpose and be willing to learn, as you can create something powerful,” Kouamé tells FORBES AFRICA. By 2017, Ayana had outgrown its humble beginnings. But Kouamé was juggling it alongside her corporate job, and the weight of both responsibilities became unbearable.
“I felt stuck and knew I had to choose between stability [or] fully committing to my passion,” she recalls. The decision paid off, teaching her an important lesson. “Sometimes, you have to take risks to align your career with your purpose. Security is important, but fulfillment is priceless,” she says.
Not every endeavor under the Ayana umbrella succeeded. Financial challenges, struggles with the team, and moments of self-doubt tested her resolve. Failure became an invaluable teacher for Kouamé. “Each misstep, however, became an opportunity to refine my strategies and grow,” she says. At 40, Kouamé has learned to embrace imperfection in both her personal and professional life. “I take life and its challenges one day at a time,” she says. She credits her support system — her mother, brothers, and close friends— for helping her juggle her roles as an entrepreneur and mother. “Balance doesn’t mean equal attention to everything all the time. It’s about focusing on what’s most important at the moment. Sometimes I miss a deadline, sometimes I postpone personal plans,” she says of her personal mantra.
SUBOMI PLUMPTRE
Nigeria • 46
CEO and Co-founder, Volition Cap
Industry • Finance and Investment
Subomi Plumptre and her team at Volition Cap believe in the power of storytelling as a vehicle for change. This paid off through investments in the movie, The Black Book – the gritty Nigerian drama, which defied expectations, topping Netflix charts, globally.
Plumptre pioneers a model that empowers the African middle class, flipping the traditional narrative of poverty alleviation on its head.
“If you empower the middle class, they create jobs that lift the bottom of the pyramid,” she explains to FORBES AFRICA.
Growing up in Nigeria, Plumptre’s early years were shaped by books, curiosity, and a deep-seated belief that Africa could be more than a continent of untapped potential.
The company’s success, however, wasn’t without its lessons, one of the most profound being that “Africa can save Africa”.
The aunt of star footballer Ashleigh Plumptre recounts how Volition Cap became the first company to combine a cooperative license with a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) fund management license.
“We’re showing the world that Africans have the capacity to solve their problems. We don’t need to look East or West; we just need the right infrastructure,” she says.
In her mid-40s, she seems to have found a rhythm that prioritizes health, family, and meaningful relationships.
“Now, I’m more selective about how I spend my time. I found that I just prefer to spend time with the people who are important to me.”
As she reflects on her journey, she speaks with the clarity of someone who has learned to embrace uncertainty.
“If I could tell my younger self anything, it would be this: don’t wait for perfection. Launch; deploy that idea.”
Plumptre’s vision for Volition Cap is ambitious yet rooted in the continent she calls home. “We’re building the BlackRock of Africa,” she says, her tone both confident and measured. It’s a bold goal, but one that feels within reach for a woman who has already reshaped the narrative of African prosperity
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