Nominate Africa’s Trailblazers
Nominations are now closed
Voting is now open
NextGen Africa Awards
Do you know an exceptional entrepreneur, innovative SME, or a game-changing woman- or youth-owned business that deserves recognition? The NextGen Africa Awards is your opportunity to shine a spotlight on those who are driving progress, innovation, and impact across the continent.
We’re calling on the public to nominate standout individuals and businesses making a real difference in their communities and industries. Whether it’s a visionary startup, a resilient woman-led enterprise, or a youth-led initiative breaking new ground – we want to hear their story.
Thank you to everyone who submitted outstanding entrepreneurs, innovative SMEs, and inspiring woman- and youth-owned businesses. We’ve received an incredible response highlighting those driving progress, innovation, and impact across the continent.
Stay tuned as we prepare to celebrate Africa’s next generation of changemakers.
Voting is now open! Help us shine a light on the entrepreneurs, SMEs, and woman- and youth-led businesses driving real change across the continent.
Nominations are now closed, and we’re grateful for the incredible submissions received. Now, it’s over to you, have your say and vote for the changemakers who deserve to be recognised.
Award categories
NextGen Innovator of the Year: Honouring a trailblazer whose groundbreaking ideas, products, or services are transforming their industry and setting new standards for innovation in Africa.
Rising Entrepreneur Award: Celebrating an emerging business leader under 35 who demonstrates exceptional drive, vision, and potential to create lasting impact.
Tech for Good Award: Recognising a tech-focused enterprise or individual using innovation to solve social, environmental, or economic challenges across the continent.
Sustainable Business Leader: Awarded to a company or entrepreneur championing sustainability, ethical practices, and long-term environmental impact through their business model.
Women in Leadership Award: Honouring a female entrepreneur or executive who has shown outstanding leadership, resilience, and contribution to advancing gender equality in business.
SME Excellence Award: Recognising a high-performing small or medium-sized enterprise that exemplifies growth, operational excellence, and positive community impact.
Youth Empowerment Champion: Presented to an individual, organisation, or initiative driving meaningful change in youth development, education, or employment across Africa.
Pan-African Collaboration Award: Celebrating a cross-border initiative, business, or partnership that strengthens African unity and drives continental growth through cooperation.
