Christine Kikome is a passionate and dedicated student at Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda. She has developed a strong foundation in the IT field, actively engaging in projects, hackathons and and leadership to enhance her skills and knowledge. She has undertaken hands on projects, one which was a mobile application for events built in flutter, and so many others, can be found in her GitHub account here “https://github.com/Kikome-Christine” I inspire to become a most innovative youth through research in the IT field, attending conference, and workshops.

At just 13, Tanaka’s remarkable academic achievements earned her a coveted spot at the prestigious Curtis Nkondo School of Specialization, where she excelled in Information Technology and Computer Applications Technology. Her passion and talent have not gone unnoticed; in 2024 alone, she was recognized as one of South Africa’s Top Geeks by Geek Culture and named a Micro Champion by the Micro Foundation.

Tanaka’s influence extends beyond the classroom. She has been featured in prominent blogs like Leading Ladies in Africa, where she inspires others with her wisdom and vision as a young woman in tech. Her growing list of accolades and her drive to share her knowledge make her a true role model for aspiring technologists.

Tanaka is more than just a promising talent; she is a rising star, poised to lead the next generation of innovators.

Charmaine is an aspiring robotics engineer. Driven by her passion for bettering her community, along with her team, she designed a sound to electricity generator. It utilized piezoelectric material to convert the mechanical energy from sound to electrical energy. Zimbabwe is no stranger to electricity power cuts and the most affected are small to medium enterprises who cannot afford diesel generators as the cost of fuel in Zimbabwe skyrockets without any warning at any point. The project was proposed as an alternative source of electricity for these businesses, especially those situated in high density suburbs such as Mbare.

Ashley Sello is an exceptional young leader in STEM, redefining what it means to be a teenage girl in the field. As the driving force behind African Youth Ignited’s Girls in Robotics Teen leadership, Ashley has empowered her peers through workshops on academic performance, goal setting, and personal development, creating a supportive environment for young women to thrive.

Her entrepreneurial spirit shines through her initiative to lead a team of teenage executives promoting tech skills in South Africa and Uganda. Ashley’s impressive accolades, including the Allan Grey Entrepreneurship Challenge, the President’s Award, and selection for the prestigious Global Tech Girls Exchange Program, highlight her dedication and potential as a future STEM leader. With a passion for architecture, she has gained valuable experience through job shadowing, combining her technical skills with creative vision.

Ashley is a role model whose leadership, innovation, and commitment to empowering young women make her a standout candidate for the Aspiring Teen Award.

Matshepo’s story of resilience, innovation, and leadership makes her a standout candidate, highlighting her dedication to transforming the tech industry and inspiring others. Overcame significant challenges as an orphan, rising to become a leading figure in tech. Currently a full-stack intern at Efama App, actively shaping South Africa’s tech landscape.

Through her role as the founder of DevOps seminars, she has pioneered efforts to advance professional development and foster collaboration within the tech industry. Her creation of the Learn Code Now website exemplifies her dedication to mentoring and empowering aspiring developers. Matshepo’s leadership extends to her work with the Thuma Mina Tech Foundation, an NPO dedicated to teaching technology to autistic children. This initiative not only demonstrates her commitment to using her skills for social good but also addresses the need for inclusive and accessible tech education. Her vision for a better tech future in South Africa is evident in her ongoing projects and her role as a full-stack intern at Efama App. Matshepo’s drive to improve the tech ecosystem, combined with her personal story of overcoming adversity, makes her a truly deserving candidate for the Aspiring Teens award.

Steve Sherman is a strong candidate for the Best Ally Award due to his extensive work advocating for inclusivity in technology through his organization, Living Maths.

Since founding Living Maths, Steve has been dedicated to promoting STEM education for all, with a focus on reaching underrepresented groups. He has organized numerous workshops and events that emphasize gender diversity and inclusivity in tech, actively supporting girls and women in STEM fields. His efforts have made a significant impact in creating a more inclusive tech community.

As the co-founder of Women’s Tech Connection, established in 2019, Andisa has created a platform that empowers women to achieve Cisco Certified certification, offering a comprehensive program that not only enhances their technical skills but also prepares them for career opportunities through mentorship, job readiness master classes, and personal brand building. Her background in the tech industry, combined with her passion for gender equality, has positioned her as a leader who is dedicated to amplifying women’s careers in meaningful ways.

Ramla Ibrahim has a strong background in IT, starting as a System Administrator at Vodacom Tanzania PLC in 2015, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional technical skills and leadership. Since joining NBC in 2022 as a specialist in virtualization and Linux, Ramla has played a pivotal role in overhauling the bank’s IT infrastructure and enhancing cybersecurity measures. Her dedication to continuous learning, problem-solving, and customer-centric approaches has not only advanced her career but also positioned her as a mentor and advocate for women in tech.

Abigail Padiachy has made significant contributions to advancing women and non-binary individuals in technology through her impactful leadership and advocacy efforts. With a background that includes a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics and a Master’s in Agricultural Biotechnology, Abigail has leveraged her expertise to create and lead the “AnitaB.org Navigating the Tech Journey: Thrive and Innovate with Balance” networking event in Cape Town, South Africa. This successful event brought together top innovators in tech to inspire and empower women, showcasing Abigail’s commitment to fostering a supportive community for underrepresented groups in the industry.

Confidence Staveley has a remarkable dedication to advancing women in technology, particularly in cybersecurity. As the Founder of Cybersafe Foundation, she has made it her mission to create opportunities for women. Confidence is not only a multi-award-winning cybersecurity leader and API security professional but also a passionate mentor and advocate for young girls aspiring to join the cybersecurity industry. Her commitment to fostering inclusion and diversity within the tech community is evident in her tireless efforts to inspire and guide the next generation of female cybersecurity professionals.

Women Who Build Africa, has created a groundbreaking community that empowers women and non-binary individuals in Africa’s tech industry. Launched in 2022, this initiative fosters intentional connections, mentorship, and support across the continent, enabling women at all levels to share experiences, find opportunities, and contribute to the future of tech. By promoting diversity and inclusion, Thea Sokolowski, Co-Founder’s work has sparked sustainable change, empowering underrepresented groups and advancing the tech ecosystem in Africa.

AWS Skills Center Cape Town is a free training center for anyone in the local community who is curious about cloud computing and future job possibilities in the cloud. At AWS Skills Center Tiara Pathon has developed social impact training programs with Ministries of ICT and Education in Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda, Tunisia, and South Africa. Collaborated on Smart Cities Rwanda Project with the MAKE IT Alliance and Ministry of ICT.

Launched ALX Program in partnership with African Leadership Group and Mastercard Foundation, reaching 32,000 learners across 8 African countries. Led the #shedares program training 3,000 women in South Africa with AWS, Standard Bank, and Girl Code.Initiated the AWS Skills Center with Absa, training 50 unemployed graduates in South Africa and expanding to 3 countries and 130 women in 2024.

SAMTEC is a dynamic educational initiative dedicated to uplifting underprivileged communities, with a particular focus on empowering the girl child. We provide high school students with essential programming skills through a pioneering curriculum designed to prepare them for prestigious qualifications such as NQF Level 5 in Systems Development. Our comprehensive approach includes hands-on learning experiences, mentorship, and strategic partnerships with industry leaders. By equipping students with cutting-edge skills and creating pathways to high-quality employment, we aim to drive economic empowerment, foster innovation, and promote diversity and inclusion in the tech sector.

SAMTEC initially focused on providing advanced tech education but has evolved to emphasize community engagement and practical mentorship, especially through participation in Geekulcha’s Mandela Month Youth STEM Programme. Collaborating with esteemed organizations such as NEMISA and the University of Johannesburg, SAMTEC has guided students in developing digital literacy and essential skills, significantly impacting their educational journey

At Melisizwe, our purpose is to build a generation of computer-literate and prepared leaders who will have the capacity to make a difference in society. We understand the transformative power of computer education, and we believe that with the right skills and mindset, our students can thrive in the digital age.

Melisizwe is more than just an educational provider. It is a community of passionate educators, learners, and supporters who are united by a common vision — to empower minds, expand horizons, and ignite the power of technology for all. Together, we are shaping a better future, one learner at a time.

The organisation evolved into the Cape Innovation & Technology Initiative (CiTi) in 2015 and the Bandwidth Barn, known as the oldest tech incubator in Africa, expanded to the informal economy and the township of Khayelitsha to provide dedicated support to entrepreneurs that have been excluded from participating in the digital economy.

UVU Africa identified the lack of financial inclusion as being a constraint to participation for many people in the economy. In 2015, a FinTech cluster was launched to support innovation and financial inclusion in the financial services industry and to support blockchain initiatives. Barclays Rise selected CiTi’s Cape Town FinTech cluster as the home for its Africa FinTech Accelerator and Innovation Hub resulting in a substantial investment in the local economy. UVU Africa’s FinTech cluster was internationally recognised as being a major catalyst for Cape Town’s FinTech boom and becoming the tech capital of Africa.

The organisation also initiated bespoke interventions to address specific areas that could unlock substantial growth such as CapaCiTi Digital Career Accelerator, which produces digitally skilled labour for a growing tech sector and a campus was opened in Cape Town and Johannesburg. As an answer to the question of how we support the improvement of education outcomes in Africa, UVU Africa established Injini, an edtech-focussed incubator helping businesses in Pan Africa to grow and scale.

The latest addition to the group, BioCiTi, was established to stimulate access to the bioeconomy and unlock opportunities for entrepreneurs and scientists with a state-of-the-art shared laboratory and incubation programme.

Chioma Ukpabi is the co-founder and CEO of Skill Up With Kahdsole (SUWK), a pioneering edtech social enterprise that empowers underserved Nigerian youths with market-driven vocational education and job placement support. A passionate advocate for youth empowerment and inclusive innovation, Chioma has led SUWK to transform the lives of over 2,500 young people in just two years, achieving a 40% job placement rate and a 150% average income increase for graduates.

Under Chioma’s visionary leadership, SUWK has developed a groundbreaking hybrid learning model that combines online courses, hands-on workshops, and apprenticeships to equip youth with in-demand skills while fostering critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. She has also spearheaded the integration of cutting-edge technologies, such as AI-powered personalized learning and job matching, to enhance the effectiveness and scalability of SUWK’s programs.

Beyond her work at SUWK, Chioma is a recognized thought leader and changemaker in the African tech ecosystem. She has been featured in Nasdaq Entrepreneur list, won the Nigerian Women in Tech Award, and spoken at global conferences such as the Tedx, World Bank Youth Summit, among others. Chioma holds a Mini-MBA from the Lagos Business School and has completed executive education programs at Tekedia Institute

Industrial electronics engineer with a degree in applied computer science and Managing Director of Kim Engineering SARL (Kimengineering.net), a successful company revolutionizing the digital energy sector in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Her commitment to using technology to improve the lives of the Congolese people led me to attend a 10-month training course organized in Kinshasa by the University of San Diego (USA), where I obtained a certificate in leadership.

Since the creation of Kim Engineering, my ambition has been to make our company one of the leading companies in the digital energy sector in Africa. My team of experts develops innovative and sustainable solutions, always in tune with the needs of the market and the challenges of the DRC.

Leonora Tima is a pioneering leader in the field of technology and social justice, with a deep commitment to addressing gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa. She is the CEO and Founder of GRIT (Gender Rights In Tech), an organization dedicated to providing innovative technological solutions to support survivors of GBV. Her journey began in youth work, where she witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by women and girls in accessing emergency support and justice. A tragic incident involving a close family member further fueled her determination to make a difference.

Mamonaheng Koenane is a visionary leader and a trailblazer in the field of technology, with a relentless commitment to revolutionizing technology education and empowering women in Lesotho. As the founder at Impact School, she has made significant contributions to the field and has been instrumental in transforming the tech landscape in her country.

Koenane co-founded the first women-led tech school in Lesotho.

Danila has a degree in accounting but has found her true passion in technology. As a co-founder of the company Chuva, she has been at the forefront of several groundbreaking initiatives that have significantly impacted Cabo Verde’s tech landscape.

One of her projects, as a software project manager, is Samba (https://samba.chuva.io), an ERP made to allow SMEs to comply with the new regulations in Cabo Verde that required digitalized tax documents, even though there were no accessible solutions in the country, which could have jeopardized their livelihoods.

She led the design and management of Cabo Verde’s only digital wallet, Ping, sparking discussions with the Central Bank of Cabo Verde, which was unprepared for such an advanced technological innovation. Her work in this area has been instrumental in pushing the country’s financial sector towards modernization.

She also spearheaded the creation of Less (https://docs.less.chuva.io), the first internationally recognized tech product from Cabo VerdeLess is a new technology called Infrastructure from Code, of which there are only five worldwide, and Less is the only one in Africa.

Through the Chuva Foundation, they launched various educational programs, including Chuva Academy, Chuva d’Ideias, and introductory technology courses for children and youth, aiming to equip the younger generation with essential digital skills.

Judith graduated at the top of her class in Computer Science Honours and co-authored an article in a leading international academic journal* of her research in the Computer Graphics speciality of Virtual Reality. In the twenty years that have followed, she has worked predominantly as a management consultant with a deep connection and interest in technology and its transformative role in bringing more inclusive and efficient services. Her industry experience spans Energy, Utilities, Financial Services, ICT, Performing Arts, and Mobile Telecommunications.

Four years ago, she co-founded a disruptive insurtech company in South Africa (Elevate Life (Pty) Ltd, https://elevate.co.za), which utilises AI, big data, and machine learning to dramatically simplify and shorten comprehensive life insurance underwriting, while strengthening the rigour of the risk assessment, and offering hyper-personalised advice to the lives insured on how to live longer, healthier, more financially secure lives.

Alongside her work at Elevate Life, Judith serves as a Director and Co-Founder of Saturn Energy (Pty) Ltd, which is at the forefront of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure development in South Africa and supporting the country’s transition to renewable energies.

She mentors aspiring female entrepreneurs and rising businesswomen and is passionate about addressing the pay, experience, and recognition gap between genders.

Roselyne, one of the pioneer women in Web3 in Kenya, is a renowned blockchain educator, Web3 strategy consultant and crypto media commentator based in Nairobi. She is the author of Blockchain for You: Talking about Tech Should be as Easy as About Food and currently works as an on-chain blockchain analyst and researcher for various Web3 companies.

She has been involved in the blockchain education cause for Kenya, and worked in senior blockchain roles at Utafiti, Pesabase, Kesholabs, EOS and Nile Capital. She was the only female on the EOS Nairobi core team. EOS Nairobi is a Block Producer on the EOS Main net serving the community from Africa.

As a leader in the Women in Web3 space she fosters diversity, empowerment, and innovation within the blockchain industry through her role with Women in Blockchain South Africa (WiB SA). As a key figure in WiB SA, Nande has been instrumental in building a vibrant, inclusive community that aligns with the global mission to support women in blockchain. Her dedication to connecting technologists, academics, and business professionals in South Africa reflects her commitment to driving meaningful change and advancing women in the Web3 space.

Devon is a prominent figure in the blockchain sector in South Africa, known for her significant contributions to the industry. She’s the CEO of Web3 Sanctuary, an edtech and Web3 education platform that trains the next generation of Solidity developers for blockchain companies. She also serves as the co-founder and CEO of Linum Labs, a blockchain development house and consultancy.

Under her leadership, Linum Labs has been instrumental in driving blockchain innovation and adoption in South Africa and beyond. Krantz’s work involves developing and implementing blockchain solutions across various industries, including finance, healthcare, and supply chain management. She focuses on leveraging blockchain technology to create more efficient, transparent, and secure systems.

Ruth Iselema, co-founder and CEO of Bitmama, stands out as a pioneering leader in the Web3 space. As the driving force behind Nigeria’s first woman-led crypto exchange, she has played a crucial role in advancing blockchain adoption across Africa, Europe, and the US. Her work involves not only raising awareness about the transformative potential of blockchain technology but also developing innovative solutions tailored to the Nigerian market. Ruth’s efforts have significantly contributed to creating more efficient, transparent, and secure systems in sectors like financial services, supply chain management, and healthcare.

Melanie Keita, co-founder and CEO of Melanin Kapital, is a visionary leader in the Web3 space, particularly in leveraging blockchain technology to empower African small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Her innovative approach has enabled these businesses to improve their risk profiles and gain access to low-interest, collateral-free capital, a significant achievement in a region where such opportunities are limited. Melanie’s work exemplifies the transformative power of decentralized technologies in fostering economic growth and financial inclusion across Africa.

Lasbery Chioma Oludimu is the Assistant General Counsel and Chief Data Protection Officer at Yellow Card, where she has played a pivotal role in expanding the company’s presence across Africa, starting with Nigeria. She built Yellow Card’s legal framework, ensuring compliance with global regulations like GDPR, and established the company’s data protection function. Her leadership in regulatory engagements and mentorship of women in fintech has promoted financial inclusion and set a high standard for legal and data protection practices in the industry.Lasbery is a champion for women’s empowerment within the broader fintech industry. In a male-dominated landscape, she stands out as a role model and mentor to many women within the company.

Throughout her 12-year career, she had the opportunity to work in various areas such as software quality testing, systems analysis, and systems auditing. These experiences have provided her with a comprehensive perspective and a diverse set of skills. She has an analytical and critical approach, which enables her to identify and solve complex problems, ensuring the quality and reliability of software systems.

Her experience in systems auditing has helped her develop skills in risk analysis and the implementation of effective information security measures, with a special focus on protecting digital assets.

She is an effective communicator and natural leader, capable of conveying technical information clearly and concisely, facilitating collaboration among multidisciplinary teams.

Furthermore, she has experience in project management and digital transformation, constantly seeking to improve the efficiency and maturity of organizational processes.

Ursula Owusu-Ekuful is a distinguished Ghanaian lawyer, ICT advocate, and politician. She holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) from the University of Ghana and a Master of Laws (LL.M) in International Law and Development from the University of London. She has served as the Member of Parliament for Ablekuma West Constituency since 2012 and has been the Minister of Communications since 2017, later becoming the Minister of Communications and Digitalization. Her tenure as minister has been marked by numerous achievements, including the expansion of digital infrastructure, the promotion of digital literacy, and the enhancement of cybersecurity in Ghana.

She has spearheaded several initiatives aimed at fostering a digital economy, such as the Digital Ghana Agenda and the introduction of digital address systems. Ursula’s notable achievements include her role in the implementation of the National Identification System and the Mobile Money Interoperability platform, which have significantly improved financial inclusion and digital identity in Ghana. Her leadership in the Girls in ICT project stands out as a key highlight of her career, showcasing her commitment to empowering the next generation of women in tech.

Serisha Barrat is a leading figure in the world of tech entrepreneurship, reshaping the African tech scene and now making waves globally. With a strong commitment to innovation and social change.

Heading two groundbreaking startups, Lawyered Up and Boardroom App, Serisha is at the forefront of developing solutions that transcend borders. Lawyered Up, powered by AI, not only supports African SMEs but also fosters economic growth and collaboration. As CEO of Boardroom App, she’s revolutionizing professional networking and online dating, utilizing platforms like LinkedIn to elevate user experiences.

Serisha’s passion for social justice extends beyond her business ventures. Through her non-profit, Arts of Charity, she harnesses art for philanthropy and provides pro bono legal aid through Lawyered Up to victims of gender-based violence.

As Director of the UK-South Africa Tech Hub, Milisa has been instrumental in fostering collaboration between the UK and South Africa’s tech sectors. She has spearheaded initiatives that empower South African startups, facilitating access to funding and resources essential for their growth. Under her leadership, the Tech Hub has successfully renewed funding for the South African Startup Act Movement, which aims to streamline policies and remove barriers hindering the growth of emerging businesses. This initiative not only supports local entrepreneurs but also enhances South Africa’s position in the global tech landscape.

Milisa is also a vocal advocate for policy reform that supports the growth of startups in South Africa. She has identified critical areas for improvement, such as intellectual property legislation and the establishment of startup visas, which are essential for attracting global investment and talent. Her advocacy efforts have garnered support from influential organizations like the World Bank, further emphasizing her role in shaping policies that enhance the tech ecosystem.

Executive Director of Charis Mukisa Global Consults Limited a Civil-Structural-Geotechnical-Solar Engineering and Construction company. Caroline started a company during the covid 19 pandemic in 2020 while Uganda was in lockdown and the company has stood the test of time. Caroline and her team are working on a project of designing a low cost solar powered waste incinerator which is smoke free for sanitary pad disposal and waste disposal.

Her and her team are looking forward to preserving the environment with their smoke free low cost solar powered waste incinerators while providing more jobs to the youth especially females in the engineering sector when the project expands within and outside Uganda.

Nomahlubi is a visionary leader and founder of Foi Science, renowned for pioneering advancements in biopolymer technology within the cosmetic science industry. Her expertise extends to formulating skincare, haircare, and color cosmetics products that integrate active botanicals from South African medicinal plants, catering to diverse skin needs and promoting eco-conscious practices.

her leadership is exemplified in her rigorous approach to research and development, guiding projects from conception to market launch while ensuring stringent quality standards. Notable among these projects is the Rapha skincare range, celebrated for its effective use of biopolymers and sustainable formulation practices.

Beyond product innovation, Nomahlubi has made significant contributions to community empowerment through technology. She has pioneered e-learning programs that provide theoretical and practical training in cosmetic science and entrepreneurship. These programs, designed especially for rural and disadvantaged communities, equip individuals with digital skills, including website and e-commerce development, fostering economic independence and participation in the digital economy.

As a mentor and advocate, Nomahlubi actively supports women in technology, dedicating herself to mentoring aspiring women technologists and promoting gender equity within the industry. She organizes events, delivers speeches, and creates content to champion diversity and inclusion in tech, leveraging her platform to amplify women’s voices and advocate for policy changes that advance gender diversity.

As the Co-Founder and CEO of Agriflex Ltd, I have the privilege of leading a team of passionate innovators who are revolutionizing agriculture through sustainable practices and technology. Our commitment to creating value for our customers, stakeholders, and employees drives us to develop and communicate a compelling vision and strategy that aligns with our mission.

With a wealth of experience in operations management and market expansion, I have directed successful growth strategies across East Africa in transportation, logistics, supply chain, and storage sectors. At Agriflex, we share a passion for innovation and sustainability in agriculture, and we leverage data, partnerships, technology, and innovation to optimize operational efficiency, quality assurance, risk management, and customer relationship management to address the evolving needs of farmers and revolutionize the way we cultivate food!

I am Mbali Nwoko, a commercial farmer, agri entrepreneur, and advocate for agricultural advancement. As the founder and CEO of Green Terrace, I lead a thriving farm in Johannesburg, producing premium sweet peppers for top retailers across South Africa. I also head a farmer development organisation in the Eastern Cape, supporting over 1,000 small-scale grain farmers to achieve commercial success.

In addition to my farming endeavors, I serve on key agricultural boards and actively share my insights through speaking engagements, podcasting, and writing. My mission is to empower and inspire others in the agricultural sector, driving sustainable growth and innovation in South Africa and beyond.

Mrs. Anti holds a Master of Science in Human Resource Management from the University of South Wales, UK, and is a Chartered Member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). She is also a Certified Strategic HR Business Partner from the Human Capital Institute and has, over the course of two decades and more, demonstrated excellence and commitment to bringing phenomenal growth to the corporate establishments she has been associated with. Gloria Anti has held key leadership positions in reputable organizations both in Ghana and the United Kingdom.

Gloria Opoku Anti is currently the Executive Director for the Primary Cluster of the Environment & Sanitation Group of the JOSPONG Group of Companies, with an additional role as Managing Director of Zoomlion Ghana Limited. Mrs. Anti has been instrumental in setting policy direction, formulating corporate strategy, driving exceptional shareholder value, and leading Zoomlion Ghana Ltd. to its enviable position as the largest waste management company in Ghana and a silver member of the International Solid Waste Management Association (ISWA), delivering total waste management solutions through the application of cutting-edge innovative technologies. Her strategic leadership has contributed pivotally to the company’s success.

Mrs. Anti is well-versed in recruitment, performance management, compensation and benefits, and HR administration. She is also a certified Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) expert.

Mrs. Gloria Opoku Anti is an active member of various professional associations, including the Institute of Directors, the National Association of Certified Counselors, Chartered Institute of HRM Practitioners Ghana and The Society for Human Resource Management

Beyond her professional pursuits, Mrs. Gloria Opoku Anti actively engages in voluntary work while mentoring youth groups and teaching them to improve in various aspects of business, work-life balance, and juggling the demands of family and career development.

Sne Dlamini, an industry powerhouse and 2023 Young CIO of the Year runner-up, has demonstrated exceptional leadership in the tech industry. As the newly appointed Vice President: Technology and Digital at AECI, she is driving the group’s IT strategy, leading digital transformation, and expanding the company’s global footprint. With over 18 years of experience across various sectors, including manufacturing and financial services, Sne’s innovative strategies and commitment to lifelong learning make her an inspiring leader. Her vision for a digitally enabled and globally recognized AECI highlights her ability to pioneer and execute transformative initiatives.

Dr. Philile Mkhize, an executive leader at Absa, exemplifies visionary leadership and a commitment to fostering an inclusive tech community. She has guided over 100 women in tech and actively mentors young girls through global programs. Philile champions diversity, equity, and inclusion, while empowering women-led startups by connecting them with industry resources. Her impact extends beyond Absa, influencing the broader tech industry. Featured in Brainstorm magazine, her legacy is a beacon for future women leaders in technology.

With over two decades of experience in management consulting and IT, Masego Mabalane stands as a transformative leader in the tech industry. Her expertise has guided multinational corporations and government departments through digital transformation across the AAPAC and EMEA regions. Masego is renowned for her ability to align modernization agendas with organizational goals, driving operational excellence.

She excels in integrating cutting-edge technologies such as cloud computing, 5G, and AI, while also demonstrating a strong acumen in financial management, revenue optimization, and business development. Her leadership, innovation, and commitment to empowering others make her an exemplary candidate for this award.

Varuna Bangaleea is a prominent IT executive with over 20 years of experience, currently serving as the CEO of nVisionIT, a leading technology firm in Mauritius and South Africa. Her extensive expertise spans software development, project management, and business operations. With a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and a Master’s in Commerce specializing in International Business Operations, Varuna has established herself as a transformative leader in the tech industry. Her ability to deliver impactful solutions while advocating for diversity and inclusion makes her a powerful candidate for this award.

Mrs. Olamide Akintola is a visionary leader from Nigeria and the founder of the Visage Women Foundation, dedicated to empowering women and young girls in technology and various life aspects since 2016. Under her leadership, the foundation has made remarkable strides in advancing the role of women in tech, impacting over 1,000 female youths from more than 22 countries through initiatives like the International Female Youth Summit.

This platform, created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, has equipped young women with essential skills, knowledge, and confidence to excel in their fields, making her a powerful advocate for change and empowerment.

Cheyenne Fernánda Miller is recognized for her visionary work in driving innovation, diversity, and inclusion across global tech ecosystems. As a creative director and strategic innovator, Cheyenne has dedicated her career to fostering collaborative environments that empower underrepresented groups in technology. Her extensive experience, which spans South Africa, Pan-Africa, the Middle East, the USA, and Europe, reflects her commitment to using technology as a tool for social change and economic development. Cheyenne’s work has made a profound impact on the global tech landscape, making her a distinguished figure in the industry.

Prof. Elsie Effah Kaufmann, an eminent Ghanaian academic and trailblazer in STEM education, has made significant strides in biomedical engineering and science education, leaving an indelible mark on the technological landscape of Ghana and beyond. With a robust academic foundation, including a Ph.D. in Bioengineering from the University of Pennsylvania, Prof. Kaufmann has dedicated her career to advancing science and technology through education, research, and leadership. As the founding Head of the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Ghana, Prof. Kaufmann’s vision and leadership have been instrumental in shaping the department into a hub of innovation and excellence. Her pioneering efforts have established a robust curriculum that equips students with the skills to address critical healthcare challenges through engineering solutions. Under her guidance, the department has flourished, fostering a new generation of engineers who are making significant contributions to the field.

Prof. Kaufmann is best known for her role as the quiz mistress of the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ), a popular television program that promotes science and mathematics education in Ghana. Her dynamic and engaging presence on the show has inspired countless young minds to pursue careers in STEM, transforming the NSMQ into a cultural phenomenon that celebrates academic excellence and intellectual rigor. Her commitment to empowering the next generation of scientists and engineers is evident through her extensive mentorship and outreach activities.

Prof. Kaufmann has played a pivotal role in the African Gifted Foundation Ghana, where she has provided mentorship, resources, and opportunities to over 5000 young students, including more than 2000 girls, encouraging them to pursue careers in engineering and science. Her efforts have broken down barriers and created pathways for future female leaders in STEM. Prof. Kaufmann’s exceptional contributions have been recognized with numerous prestigious awards, including the Golden Torch Award for International Academic Leadership from the National Society of Black Engineers and the International Women’s Forum Leadership Foundation Fellowship. These accolades underscore her outstanding leadership and her profound impact on STEM education and gender equality.

Thato has been passionate about leveraging technology to change the world we live in for the better going back to her high school days at Rhodes University. Over her 23 year career, she has successfully shaped and delivered large IT-powered business transformation projects in various industries, including Financial Services, Retail and FMCG as well as the Oil and Gas industry.

She is passionate about leveraging technology to innovate and plays a critical role in building the inclusive technology workforce of the future through her mentorship endeavors. Her recent efforts have focused on Cloud, Open Banking, involvement with Fintechs and other startups in Financial services. She serves as a Board member of Wired4Women Tech Forum. She is currently the CIO of Sasol Energy in South Africa.

As the CEO of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), she has played a pivotal role in modernizing the financial landscape and promoting innovation within the industry. Leadership and Career Achievements Leila’s career is marked by significant milestones that showcase her expertise and vision. Appointed as CEO of the JSE, she has been instrumental in driving the exchange’s strategic direction and enhancing its global competitiveness. Her leadership has not only improved operational efficiency but has also fostered a culture of innovation, making the JSE a hub for technological advancement in the financial sector. Before her tenure at the JSE, Leila held various leadership roles in the banking and financial services industry, where she consistently demonstrated her ability to navigate complex challenges and implement effective solutions. Her extensive experience includes key positions at Standard Bank and other prominent financial institutions, where she was recognized for her strategic insights and ability to drive growth.

Commitment to Empowerment and Diversity Dr. Fourie is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion within the tech and finance sectors. She actively promotes initiatives aimed at empowering women and underrepresented groups, ensuring that diverse voices are heard and valued in decision-making processes. Her dedication to fostering an inclusive environment has made her a role model for aspiring leaders, particularly women in technology.

Visionary Impact Leila’s contributions extend beyond her executive responsibilities. She is a sought-after speaker and thought leader, frequently sharing her insights on the future of finance and technology at industry conferences and forums. Her commitment to mentorship and development has inspired many young professionals to pursue careers in finance and technology, further amplifying her impact on the industry.

Clare Akamanzi is an exemplary nominee for the Women in Tech® Lifetime Achievement Award, reflecting a profound commitment to leadership and innovation in the technology and sports sectors. Currently serving as the CEO of NBA Africa, Clare has made significant strides in promoting basketball and business development across the continent, showcasing her dedication to fostering growth and talent.