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<iframe loading="lazy" title="#FORBESAFRICA30Under30 Class of 2023: Meet COVER STAR Mutethia ‘Tesh’ Mbaabu" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wKmIguvWjWk?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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In 2008, while the world marveled over Facebook, the new fascinating platform that would change the way one approaches mass communication, Mutethia ‘Tesh’ Mbaabu’s only thought about Facebook was: “Who built this platform and what is their background? And how can I do something similar?”



Mbaabu set out to learn everything he could about technology and building startups; he read up biographies and profiles of entrepreneurs and consumed news about top startups across the globe. A vision began to form: he wanted to build something as impactful as Facebook, but specific to Africa.



Which is what led to MarketForce, a B2B commerce platform that empowers over 200,000 neighborhood merchants across five African markets to source, order and pay for inventory, access financing and earn more by reselling financial services in their communities.



He seems to have all the support – judging by the number of people who nominated him for this list.



“What makes you so popular?”



“I think it’s because it’s because I represent a young black African entrepreneur who comes from an average family but who has been able to break into the tech ecosystem and raise funding, which is very hard. And then build a company that operates several African companies.”



“Mutethia&#8217;s story is testament to the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity,” says 2023 30 Under 30 external judge Bright Jaja. “It&#8217;s truly inspiring to see how he has turned his setbacks into opportunities for growth and innovation. In a world where we face so many



challenges, it&#8217;s important to have role models who demonstrate that it&#8217;s possible to make a positive difference and achieve success by pursuing one&#8217;s passions.”



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<h2 class="has-text-align-center wp-block-heading" id="h-2023-forbes-under-30-summit-africa">2023 Forbes Under 30 Summit Africa</h2>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/U30-Africa-Summit-Email-Header-6Speaker-1024x538.png" alt="" class="wp-image-57846" width="669" height="351" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/U30-Africa-Summit-Email-Header-6Speaker-1024x538.png 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/U30-Africa-Summit-Email-Header-6Speaker-300x158.png 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/U30-Africa-Summit-Email-Header-6Speaker-768x403.png 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/U30-Africa-Summit-Email-Header-6Speaker.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 669px) 100vw, 669px" /></figure></div>


In April 2023, the Under 30 Summit will return to the world’s greatest growth market, Africa. Following the first-ever Forbes Under 30 Summit Africa held in April 2022, the world’s most elite young entrepreneurs and game-changers will again convene in one of the world’s most beautiful countries, Botswana.



Across four days in the country’s capital, Gaborone, we’ll harness the power of entrepreneurial capitalism amid the continent whose growth will help define the 21st century. As with every Under 30 Summit, the social and cultural opportunities will be world-class. You’ll hear from government, venture capital and business role models, providing inspiration for the newest—and next—generation of leaders. We will welcome local performers, chefs and entrepreneurs, allowing us to experience the sounds, cuisine and staples of local culture while engaging in unbeatable networking and pitching opportunities.



<a href="https://www.forbes.com/connect/event/2023-forbes-under-30-summit-africa/?promo=LPAFRICA" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">REGISTER HERE</a>

#FORBESAFRICA30Under30 Class of 2023: Meet COVER STAR Mutethia Mbaabu“…build a company that operates several African companies.”

So what would a historic pandemic year throw up? Ground-breaking entrepreneurs and thinkers. Our 2021 class of Under 30s are just that: influential creatives, imaginative business owners, innovative techies and gifted sports stars. Celebrating seven years of the FORBES AFRICA 30 Under 30 list, Renuka Methil, Managing Editor of FORBES AFRICA, speaks to the cover stars headlining the list and representing their cohorts from across the African continent. 



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Panel Conversation With The 2021 FORBES AFRICA Under 30 Cover Stars" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SOlvp8FTxNM?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div><figcaption>Video edited by Chanel Retief </figcaption></figure>



And they are Mihlali Ndamase, a creative and digital influencer from South Africa, Reinhard Mahalie, the founder of RM Fashion Styling in Namibia, Cleo Johnson, the founder of Nuecleo in South Africa, Shakemore Timburwa, the founder of Energy Plus in Zimbabwe, and Antonio Depina, the founder of Overseas Basketball Connection based in Cape Verde.



<a href="https://www.forbesafrica.com/cover-story/2021/06/11/class-of-2021-change-makers-in-a-historic-year/">Read more about the FORBES AFRICA 30 Under 30 Class of 2021 </a>



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/IMG_5029-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-51313" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/IMG_5029-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/IMG_5029-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/IMG_5029-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/IMG_5029-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/IMG_5029-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/IMG_5029-scaled.jpg 1707w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption>Photo by Motlabana Monnakgotla</figcaption></figure></div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-to-look-out-for">What To Look Out For</h2>



Our FORBES AFRICA 30 Under 30 curators, Karen Mwendera, Chanel Retief and Simone Umraw will have be in conversation with some of the changemakers who made the Class of 2021 on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/forbesafrica/">Instagram</a>. Stay tuned for more!

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Panel: In Conversation With The 2021 FORBES AFRICA Under 30 Cover Stars

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CLASS OF 2021 Change-Makers In A Historic Year

Members of this year’s list of under 30s have one thing in common: A NEW COVID-INDUCED AGENDA FOR SOCIAL CHANGE. So what would a historic pandemic year throw up? ground-breaking entrepreneurs and thinkers. Our 2021 class of under 30s are just that: INFLUENTIAL CREATIVES, IMAGINATIVE BUSINESS OWNERS, INNOVATIVE TECHIES, AND GIFTED SPORTS STARS. Celebrating seven years of the FORBES AFRICA 30 UNDER 30 LIST, these achievers prove that now more than ever,&nbsp; they are crucial to the AFRICAN GROWTH STORY.



<h4 class="has-text-align-center wp-block-heading" id="h-the-under-30-team">THE UNDER 30 TEAM </h4>



Words: Karen Mwendera, Chanel Retief, Simone Umraw Art Director: Lucy Nkosi Photographer: Motlabana Monnakgotla Retouching: Newkatz Studio Styling: Keabetswe Mafora; Outfits supplied by: Spero Villioti, Viviers Studio, Sisi the Collection, GertJohan Coetzee, Port of LNG, Amen Concepts, Europa Art Studio: Light Station Studio, Johannesburg | Hair &amp; Makeup: SnehhOnline Beauty



<h4 class="has-text-align-center wp-block-heading" id="h-methodology">METHODOLOGY</h4>



The Covid-19 pandemic posed a unique challenge this year when collating criteria for the nomination process. A new set of factors had to be taken into account for the challenges this year’s hopefuls were faced with. Yet, despite the adversities and setbacks, about 1,000+ applicants and nominees poured into our online portal, and we also dredged them from our 30 Under 30 alum and our own research. This was then narrowed down to the 30 finalists across the business, technology, sports and creative sectors.



The criteria employed this year was the most rigorous it has ever been. Nominees needed to provide valid evidence of their endeavors. Background checks were done to ascertain their calibre, conduct and personal track-record. With audit partner SNG Grant Thornton, we were able to assess their company financials from losses to growth margins to overall revenue and profits since incorporation.



Our criteria for the 30 Under 30 list is that only those under the age of 30 ( just before the publication of this issue) may apply. All decision-making and interviews were conducted digitally this year, as the pandemic did not enable meetings in person. In doing so, we had new appreciation for the technology that powered our research. The finalists were vetted by the editorial team and a panel of high-profile judges and subjectmatter experts (see following page). This list is only but a small indication of the inspiring young talent on the continent who will no doubt grace the pages of FORBES AFRICA in the months and years to come



CHANGE-MAKERS VERSUS Covid! That’s what we were looking for when curating FORBES AFRICA’s 30 Under 30 list-makers this year. After all, 2021 marks an entire year that has disrupted the world. Businesses pivoted and so did our lives as we navigated the pandemic, and realized that the old ways of doing things no longer work.



But surely, there are answers, especially on the world’s youngest continent. A report, Global Employment Trends for Youth 2020: Africa, by the International Labour Organization, says that “Africa’s youth unemployment rate is the lowest in the world and compared to other regions”.



So, we celebrate young talent that comes to the fore in finding sustainable ways to overcome the crisis but also helping those who have been the hardest hit. From philanthropic beauty influencers to tech geeks revolutionizing renewable energy and even a chess master championing entrepreneurship, the list features a motley cast of individuals wanting to change the world when it needs it the most.



This year’s list-makers – the youngest being 19 – will go down in history as the Under 30s who survived and thrived during one of the most turbulent chapters on earth. The following pages are a record of the enduring tenacity and fighting spirit of Africa’s young leaders charting a nonlinear trajectory to success. (The list is in no particular order)



EXTERNAL JUDGES: THE CATEGORY EXPERTS WHOSE ROLE WAS TO SURVEY ALL THE FINALISTS OF THE 2021 30 UNDER 30 LIST, RANK THEM AND PROVIDE COMMENTARY ON EACH CANDIDATE.



BUSINESS: Nigerian businesswoman Uche Pedro, the founder, and CEO of BellaNaija, a media-tech brand known for its entertainment and lifestyle content. She has been in the business game for over 15 years, collecting numerous local and international accolades along the way including making the FORBES WOMAN AFRICA 50 Most Powerful Women list in 2020.



TECHNOLOGY: Olugbenga Agboola, the cofounder and CEO of Flutterwave, an African fintech firm building digital payments infrastructure. He has contributed to the development of fintech solutions at several tech companies and financial institutions such as PayPal, Standard Bank, among others. Flutterwave recently raised $170 million, giving it ‘unicorn’ status with a value of over $1 billion.



CREATIVES: Dr John Kani, a South African actor, author, director, and playwright known for his roles in Marvel movies Captain America: Civil War and Black Panther as well as The Lion King. In addition, Kani is also the Founder of the Market Theatre LaboratoryAcademy, chair of the Apartheid Museum South Africa, patron and Ambassador of the Market Theatre, and Trustee for the WWFNedbank Green Trust.



SPORTS: Tendai ‘Beast’ Mtawarira, a Zimbabwean-born professional rugby player who plays for Old Glory DC in Major League Rugby and previously for the South African national team and the Sharks in Super Rugby. With 117 caps, he is the most capped prop in South African history and the third most-capped Springbok of all time. He is also a 2019 Rugby World Cup winner. He owns a security company in South Africa and The Beast Foundation.



AUDIT PARTNER: FORBES AFRICA partnered again with SNG Grant Thornton to vet the business and financial statements of the candidates. This involved understanding the landscape, the profitability, growth and most of all, the scalability of each business. 



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For the full list download the digital copy <a href="https://shop.forbesafrica.com/product/single-digital-issue-30-under-30-june-july-2021/">here</a>

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Forbes Africa #30Under30 List: MEET THE COVER STARS

FORBES AFRICA is on the hunt for Africans under the age of 30, who are leading the charge building brands, creating jobs and transforming the continent, to join the magazine&#8217;s Under 30 community for 2021.



Attention entrepreneurs, creatives, sports stars and technology geeks — the 2021 FORBES AFRICA 30 Under 30 nominations are now officially open.



Each year, FORBES AFRICA looks for resilient self-starters, innovators, entrepreneurs and disruptors who have the acumen to stay the course in their chosen field, come what may.



The FORBES AFRICA 30 Under 30 list is the most-anticipated list of game-changers on the continent and this year, we are on the hunt for 30 of Africa’s brightest achievers under the age of 30 spanning these categories: Business, Technology, Creatives, and Sport.



Past honorees include Mr Eazi, Lloyd Harris, Sho Madjozi, Bruce Diale, Karabo Poppy, Thuso Mbedu, Nomzamo Mbatha, Burna Boy, Nthabiseng Mosia, Davido, Shamim Nabuuma Kaliisa, Nasty C and WizKid.



Continuing with a final list of 30, this year will go down in history as the Under 30s who survived and thrived during one of the most turbulent times recorded: the global COVID-19 pandemic.



“The FORBES AFRICA 30 Under 30 is the most coveted list of the year, and we will be celebrating seven years of the list in 2021. What will make this compilation even more compelling will be the fighting spirit of the candidates that made it through a challenging year. They need to be honored even more for their tenacity and resilience as leaders charting a non-linear trajectory to success,” says Renuka Methil, Managing Editor of FORBES AFRICA.



<div class="wp-block-image is-style-default"><figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="768" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/UNDER30-1200x9004-1-1024x768.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-49141" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/UNDER30-1200x9004-1-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/UNDER30-1200x9004-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/UNDER30-1200x9004-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/UNDER30-1200x9004-1-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/UNDER30-1200x9004-1-2048x1536.jpg 2048w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/UNDER30-1200x9004-1-600x450.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></div>



If you think you have what it takes to be on this year’s list or know an entrepreneur, creative, technology entrepreneur, or sports star under the age of 30 with a proven track record on the continent – introduce them to FORBES AFRICA by submitting your nomination.



<h3 class="has-text-align-center wp-block-heading" id="h-the-judging-process-will-take-place-in-four-stages">The judging process will take place in four stages:</h3>



● The first stage will be the evaluation of your motivation. If you do not hear back from us (within a specific period), please deem your nomination as unsuccessful.



● The second stage will require potential candidates to submit more documentation for the next stage of assessment.



● The third stage will include an analysis of your financials, revenue model and credibility as in-depth research will be conducted into who you are and your company/team (no criminal records, troubling lawsuits/bankruptcies, allegations of crime, bad behavior, sexual harassment/abuse or fraud).



● The final stage will have an expert panel of judges assess the strong candidates, whittling them down to the final 30. The editorial and research team makes the final selection based on judges’ scoring/remarks and adjusts for diversity across company type, gender, background, etc.



NOMINATIONS AND APPLICATIONS CRITERIA:



Please read and take careful note of the following before applying. 



<h3 class="has-text-align-center wp-block-heading" id="h-business-and-technology-categories">Business and Technology categories</h3>



<div class="wp-block-image is-style-default"><figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/tech.png.png" alt="" class="wp-image-41042" width="326" height="305" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/tech.png.png 412w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/tech.png-300x281.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 326px) 100vw, 326px" /><figcaption>2019 30 under 30s in technology: Eric Muli, Nthabiseng Mosia, Courtney Bentley. (Photo: Motlabana Monnakgotla)</figcaption></figure></div>



<ol><li>Must be an entrepreneur/founder aged 29 or younger on 31 March 2021</li><li>Should have a legitimate REGISTERED business on the continent</li><li>Business/businesses should be two years or older</li><li>Nominees must have risked own money and have a social impact</li><li>Must be profit generating</li><li>Must employ people in Africa</li><li>All applications must be in English</li><li>Should be available and prepared to participate in the Under 30 Meet-Up</li></ol>



<h3 class="has-text-align-center wp-block-heading" id="h-sports-category">Sports category</h3>



<div class="wp-block-image is-style-default"><figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/sport.png.png" alt="" class="wp-image-41057" width="278" height="247" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/sport.png.png 412w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/sport.png-300x267.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 278px) 100vw, 278px" /><figcaption>2019 30 under 30s in sport: Sabrina Simader, Patricia Aplot, Clarence Munyai. (Photo: Motlabana Monnakgotla)</figcaption></figure></div>



<ol><li>Must be a sports person aged 29 or younger on 31 March 2021</li><li>Must be representing an African team</li><li>Should have a proven track record of no less than two years</li><li>Should be making significant earnings</li><li>Should have some endorsement deals</li><li>Entrepreneurship and social impact is a plus</li><li>All applications must be in English</li><li>Should be available and prepared to participate in the Under 30 Meet-Up</li></ol>



<h3 class="has-text-align-center wp-block-heading" id="h-creatives-category">Creatives category</h3>



<div class="wp-block-image is-style-default"><figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Creatives.png.png" alt="" class="wp-image-41044" width="270" height="196" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Creatives.png.png 410w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Creatives.png-300x219.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 270px) 100vw, 270px" /><figcaption>2019 30 under 30 creatives: Karabo Poppy Moletsane, Thando Thabethe, Petite Noir. (Photo: Motlabana Monnakgotla)</figcaption></figure></div>



<ol><li>Must be a creative aged 29 or younger on 31 March 2021</li><li>Must be from or based in Africa</li><li>Should be making significant earnings</li><li>Should have a proven creative record of no less than two years</li><li>Must have social influence</li><li>Entrepreneurship and social impact is a plus</li><li>All applications must be in English</li><li>Should be available and prepared to participate in the Under 30 Meet-Up</li></ol>



If you think you have what it takes to be on the coveted list for 2021, or know change-makers in the business, technology, creative or sports sectors under the age of 30 with a proven track record on the African continent, introduce them to FORBES AFRICA by submitting your nomination. 



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.forbesafrica.com/?p=49019" target="_blank">Click here to Nominate/Apply </a>



<div class="wp-block-image is-style-default"><figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/30under30-black-1024x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-49142" width="446" height="446" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/30under30-black-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/30under30-black-300x300.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/30under30-black-150x150.jpg 150w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/30under30-black-768x768.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/30under30-black-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/30under30-black-2048x2048.jpg 2048w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/30under30-black-80x80.jpg 80w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/30under30-black-600x600.jpg 600w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/30under30-black-100x100.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 446px) 100vw, 446px" /></figure></div>

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Nominations Open For FORBES AFRICA’s 30 Under 30 Class Of 2021

FORBES AFRICA is on the hunt for Africans under the age of 30, who are leading the charge building brands, creating jobs and transforming the continent, to join the magazine&#8217;s Under 30 community for 2021.



<div class="wp-block-image is-style-default"><figure class="aligncenter is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/UNDER30-1200x9004-1-1024x768.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-49141" width="489" height="367" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/UNDER30-1200x9004-1-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/UNDER30-1200x9004-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/UNDER30-1200x9004-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/UNDER30-1200x9004-1-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/UNDER30-1200x9004-1-2048x1536.jpg 2048w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/UNDER30-1200x9004-1-600x450.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 489px) 100vw, 489px" /></figure></div>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-style-large">“The FORBES AFRICA 30 Under 30 is our most coveted list of the year, and we will be celebrating seven years of the list in 2021&#8230;&#8221; &#8211;Renuka Methil, Managing Editor of FORBES AFRICA.</blockquote>



<a href="https://www.forbesafrica.com/under-30/2020/12/14/nominations-open-for-forbes-africa-30-under-30-class-of-2020/">Please ensure that you have read entry requirements before applying.</a>



<h2 class="has-text-align-center wp-block-heading" id="h-nominations-are-now-closed">NOMINATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED</h2>



<div class="wp-block-image is-style-default"><figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/30under30-black-1024x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-49142" width="377" height="377" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/30under30-black-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/30under30-black-300x300.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/30under30-black-150x150.jpg 150w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/30under30-black-768x768.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/30under30-black-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/30under30-black-2048x2048.jpg 2048w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/30under30-black-80x80.jpg 80w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/30under30-black-600x600.jpg 600w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/30under30-black-100x100.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 377px) 100vw, 377px" /></figure></div>

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Call For Nominations To FORBES AFRICA’s 30 Under 30 Class Of 2021

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Forbes Africa #30Under30 List: Leading The Charge

FORBES AFRICA is on the hunt for Africans under the age of 30, who are building brands, creating jobs and transforming the continent, to join our Under 30 community for 2020.



<hr class="wp-block-separator"/>



JOHANNESBURG, 07 January 2020: Attention entrepreneurs,
creatives, sport stars and technology geeks — the 2020 FORBES AFRICA Under 30
nominations are now officially open. 



The
FORBES AFRICA 30 Under 30 list is the most-anticipated list of game-changers on
the continent and this year, we are on the hunt for 30 of Africa’s brightest
achievers under the age of 30 spanning these categories: Business, Technology,
Creatives and Sport.



Each
year, FORBES AFRICA looks for resilient self-starters, innovators,
entrepreneurs and disruptors who have the acumen to stay the course in their
chosen field, come what may.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="685" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Under-30-online-2020-1024x685.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-42458" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Under-30-online-2020-1024x685.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Under-30-online-2020-300x201.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Under-30-online-2020-600x401.jpg 600w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Under-30-online-2020-768x514.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Under-30-online-2020-1536x1027.jpg 1536w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Under-30-online-2020.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Past honorees include Sho Madjozi, Bruce Diale, Karabo Poppy, Kwesta, Nomzamo Mbatha, Burna Boy, Nthabiseng Mosia, Busi Mkhumbuzi Pooe, Henrich Akomolafe, Davido, Yemi Alade, Vere Shaba, Nasty C and WizKid.



What’s different this year is that we have whittled down the list to just 30 finalists, making the competition stiff and the vetting process even more rigorous.&nbsp;



Says
FORBES AFRICA’s Managing Editor, Renuka Methil: “The start of a new decade
means the unraveling of fresh talent on the African continent. I can’t wait to
see the potential billionaires who will land up on our desks. Our coveted sixth
annual Under 30 list will herald some of the decade’s biggest names in business
and life.” 



If you think you have what it takes to be on this year’s list or know an entrepreneur, creative, technology entrepreneur or sports star under 30 with a proven track-record on the continent – introduce them to FORBES AFRICA by applying or submitting your nomination.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="724" height="1024" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/poster-1-724x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-42456" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/poster-1-724x1024.jpg 724w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/poster-1-300x424.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/poster-1-600x849.jpg 600w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/poster-1-212x300.jpg 212w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/poster-1-768x1087.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/poster-1-1086x1536.jpg 1086w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/poster-1.jpg 1357w" sizes="(max-width: 724px) 100vw, 724px" /></figure>



NOMINATIONS AND APPLICATIONS CRITERIA:



Business
and Technology categories



<ol><li>Must be an
 entrepreneur/founder aged 29 or younger on 31 March 2020</li><li>Should have a legitimate
 REGISTERED business on the continent</li><li>Business/businesses
 should be two years or older</li><li>Nominees must have risked
 own money and have a social impact</li><li>Must be profit generating</li><li>Must employ people in
 Africa</li><li>All applications must be
 in English</li><li>Should be available and
 prepared to participate in the Under 30 Meet-Up</li></ol>



Sports
category



<ol><li>Must be a sports person
 aged 29 or younger on 31 March 2020</li><li>Must be representing an
 African team</li><li>Should have a proven
 track record of no less than two years</li><li>Should be making
 significant earnings</li><li>Should have some
 endorsement deals</li><li>Entrepreneurship and
 social impact is a plus</li><li>All applications must be
 in English</li><li>Should be available and
 prepared to participate in the Under 30 Meet-Up</li></ol>



Creatives
category



<ol><li>Must be a creative aged 29
 or younger on 31 March 2020</li><li>Must be from or based in
 Africa</li><li>Should be making significant
 earnings</li><li>Should have a proven
 creative record of no less than two years</li><li>Must have social
 influence</li><li>Entrepreneurship and
 social impact is a plus</li><li>All applications must be
 in English</li><li>Should be available and
 prepared to participate in the Under 30 Meet-Up</li></ol>



Your
entry should include:



<ul><li>Country</li><li>Full Names</li><li>Company name/Team you are
 applying with</li><li>A short motivation on why
 you should be on the list</li><li>A short profile on self
 and company</li><li>Links to published
 material / news clippings about nominee </li><li>All social media handles</li><li>Contact information</li><li>High-res images of
 yourself</li></ul>



Applications and nominations must be sent via email to FORBES AFRICA journalist and curator of the list, Karen Mwendera, on <a href="mailto:Karen.Mwendera@abn360.com">Karen.Mwendera@abn360.com</a> 



Nominations
close on 3 February 2020.

poster 2-2

Nominations Open for FORBES AFRICA 30 Under 30 class of 2020

This year marks the fifth milestone annual FORBES AFRICA 30 under 30 list, and we have introduced a new category of game-changers. Together, they are 120 in total across four sectors: business, technology, creatives and sport. Meet the class of 2019, a stellar collection of entrepreneurs and innovators rewriting rules and taking bold new risks to take Africa to the future. 



<h5 class="wp-block-heading">&#8211;<a href="https://www.forbesafrica.com/30-under-30/2019/07/01/30under30-business-category-2019/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="#30Under30: Business Category 2019 (opens in a new tab)">#30Under30: Business Category 2019</a></h5>



<h5 class="wp-block-heading">&#8211;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="30Under30: Creatives Category 2019 (opens in a new tab)" href="https://www.forbesafrica.com/30-under-30/2019/07/01/30under30-creatives-category-2019/" target="_blank">#30Under30: Creatives Category 2019</a></h5>



<h5 class="wp-block-heading">&#8211;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="#30Under30: Technology Category 2019 (opens in a new tab)" href="https://www.forbesafrica.com/30-under-30/2019/07/01/30under30-technology-category-2019/" target="_blank">#30Under30: Technology Category 2019</a></h5>



<h5 class="wp-block-heading">&#8211;<a href="https://www.forbesafrica.com/cover-story/2019/07/01/30under30-sport-category-2019/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="#30Under30: Sport Category 2019 (opens in a new tab)">#30Under30: Sport Category 2019</a></h5>



<ul><li>Words: Karen Mwendera&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </li></ul>



<ul><li>Edited by: Unathi Shologu</li></ul>



<ul><li>&nbsp;Assistant: Garreth Mtuwa&nbsp;&nbsp; </li></ul>



<ul><li>Creative direction by: Lucy Nkosi&nbsp;&nbsp; </li></ul>



<ul><li>Lead photography by: Motlabana Monnakgotla</li></ul>



<ul><li>Co-photography by: Gypseenia Lion&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </li></ul>



Judges of the 30 Under 30 class of 2019



The category experts whose role it was to survey all finalists of the 2019 30 Under 30 list, rank them and provide commentary on each candidate:



<ul><li>Business: Anthea Gardner, Founder and Managing Partner at Cartesian Capital</li></ul>



<ul><li>Technology: Professor Tshilidzi Marwala, Vice-Chancellor and Principal at University of Johannesburg; he also deputises President Cyril Ramaphosa on the South African Presidential Commission on the Fourth Industrial Revolution. </li></ul>



<ul><li>Creatives: Yasmin Furmie, creative and business partner of fashion brand SiSi The Collection, South Africa</li></ul>



<ul><li>Sport: Nick Said, the Africa sports correspondent for Thomson Reuters </li></ul>



<ul><li>Audit partner: SNG Grant Thornton</li></ul>

IMG_7141

Making Of The 2019 Forbes Africa #30Under30 Cover

THE FORBES AFRICA 30 UNDER 30 LIST IS THE most-anticipated list of game-changers on the continent and this year, we bring you 120 of Africa’s brightest achievers under the age of 30 and for the first time, four categories featuring 30 in each: <a href="https://www.forbesafrica.com/30-under-30/2019/07/01/#30under30:-business-category-2019/">Business</a>, <a href="https://www.forbesafrica.com/30-under-30/2019/07/01/#30under30:-technology-category-2019/">Technology</a>, <a href="https://www.forbesafrica.com/30-under-30/2019/07/01/#30under30:-creatives-category-2019/">Creatives </a>and <a href="https://www.forbesafrica.com/cover-story/2019/07/01/30under30-sport-category-2019/">Sport</a>.



From elevator manufacturing, solar energy design, to
under-30s conquering the Alps and selling out the Apollo Theatre,&nbsp; this year’s list demonstrates how
enterprising and extraordinary the African youth is.



This list celebrates these pioneers who are building brands,
creating jobs, and innovating, leading, transforming and contributing to new
industries, in turn, changing the continent.&nbsp;




“The future belongs to Africa and the future belongs to its
youth,” says Jason Pau, Chief of Staff for International to billionaire Jack
Ma, co-founder of Alibaba. He says the journey for young entrepreneurs,
especially in Africa, is not always easy. Many startups fall by the wayside due
to a lack of resources. In South Africa, it is estimated that the small
enterprise failure rate is at almost 80% within the first three years.



Chances at success are very slim, yet Africans continue to
see opportunity where many do not. The select few celebrated in this list
represent those individuals who continue to persevere against the odds. It also
serves as a reminder that it is possible. 



“People don’t really give enough time or spend enough time
in providing the right environment for entrepreneurs to grow,” Pau tells FORBES
AFRICA.



So if entrepreneurship is the answer, ensuring that an
environment is conducive for business sustainability is imperative.



Together with our audit partner for this list, SNG Grant
Thornton, the senior editorial team worked night and day scrutinizing each
candidate. For entrepreneurs, we delved into how profitable their businesses
were and if they showed signs of potential growth and sustainability.



However, not only does the list look at the financial impact
of each candidate, but also their reputation, resilience and ability to be role
models to other young Africans. 



For FORBES AFRICA, this meant endless background checks,
fact-checks, emails, phone calls and research, sifting through over 1,000
nominations that poured in over the last few months. Lastly, the one factor
that also played a role in the determination of the candidates was their online
presence. Followers are a valuable new currency, and today’s achievers have
found a way to leverage off them. This year, when FORBES named Kylie Jenner the
world’s youngest self-made billionaire, it observed that her business was built
mainly because of her social media and fan following. Many on our list have
also been able to build on this in their own way. The creatives and sport stars
lead in this regard.



This year, Sport is the newest category, opening up the list
to the game-changers who are also Africa’s next generation of leaders. They
have won awards, broken records, made social investments and pushed the
boundaries by challenging the status quo on policies in sports. However, some
of the challenges they still face include lack of resources, a gender pay gap,
and an immense pool of untapped talent not yet given a chance to be in the
limelight. 



But no matter where they are from, these 120 list-makers
share one common goal, and that is to build a better Africa.



Being an under-30 myself, I am proud to have curated the FORBES AFRICA 30 Under 30 class of 2019. At the time of going to press, all facts on the following pages were verified to be correct.



 The list is in no particular order:





<hr class="wp-block-separator"/>



This year marks the fifth milestone annual FORBES AFRICA 30 under 30 list, and we have introduced a new category of game-changers. Together, they are 120 in total across four sectors: business, technology, creatives and sport. Meet the class of 2019, a stellar collection of entrepreneurs and innovators rewriting rules and taking bold new risks to take Africa to the future. 



<h5 class="wp-block-heading">&#8211;<a href="https://www.forbesafrica.com/30-under-30/2019/07/01/30under30-business-category-2019/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="#30Under30: Business Category 2019 (opens in a new tab)">#30Under30: Business Category 2019</a></h5>



<h5 class="wp-block-heading">&#8211;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="30Under30: Creatives Category 2019 (opens in a new tab)" href="https://www.forbesafrica.com/30-under-30/2019/07/01/30under30-creatives-category-2019/" target="_blank">#30Under30: Creatives Category 2019</a></h5>



<h5 class="wp-block-heading">&#8211;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="#30Under30: Technology Category 2019 (opens in a new tab)" href="https://www.forbesafrica.com/30-under-30/2019/07/01/30under30-technology-category-2019/" target="_blank">#30Under30: Technology Category 2019</a></h5>



<h5 class="wp-block-heading">&#8211;<a href="https://www.forbesafrica.com/cover-story/2019/07/01/30under30-sport-category-2019/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="#30Under30: Sport Category 2019 (opens in a new tab)">#30Under30: Sport Category 2019</a></h5>



<ul><li>Words: Karen Mwendera&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </li></ul>



<ul><li>Edited by: Unathi Shologu</li></ul>



<ul><li>&nbsp;Assistant: Garreth Mtuwa&nbsp;&nbsp; </li></ul>



<ul><li>Creative direction by: Lucy Nkosi&nbsp;&nbsp; </li></ul>



<ul><li>Lead photography by: Motlabana Monnakgotla</li></ul>



<ul><li>Co-photography by: Gypseenia Lion&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </li></ul>



Judges of the 30 Under 30 class of 2019



The category experts whose role it was to survey all finalists of the 2019 30 Under 30 list, rank them and provide commentary on each candidate:



<ul><li>Business: Anthea Gardner, Founder and Managing Partner at Cartesian Capital</li></ul>



<ul><li>Technology: Professor Tshilidzi Marwala, Vice-Chancellor and Principal at University of Johannesburg; he also deputises President Cyril Ramaphosa on the South African Presidential Commission on the Fourth Industrial Revolution. </li></ul>



<ul><li>Creatives: Yasmin Furmie, creative and business partner of fashion brand SiSi The Collection, South Africa</li></ul>



<ul><li>Sport: Nick Said, the Africa sports correspondent for Thomson Reuters </li></ul>



<ul><li>Audit partner: SNG Grant Thornton</li></ul>

30under30

Forbes Africa #30Under30 list: Business, Technology, Creatives and Sport

sport

#30Under30: Sport Category 2019

Creatives

#30Under30: Creatives Category 2019

tech

#30Under30: Technology Category 2019

Business

#30Under30: Business Category 2019

Forbes Africa is on the hunt for Africans under the age of 30, who are building brands, creating jobs and representing and transforming the continent.



<hr class="wp-block-separator"/>



FORBES AFRICA is
on the hunt for Africans under the age of 30, who are building brands, creating
jobs and representing and transforming the continent, to join the Under 30
community for 2019.



Each year,
FORBES AFRICA looks for resilient self-starters, innovators, entrepreneurs and
disruptors who have the acumen to stay the course in their chosen field, come
what may. 



Past honorees
include Kwesta, Nomzamo Mbatha, Ink Eze, Isaya Yunge, Jokate Mwegelo, Yannick
Nzonde, Gilbert Eugene Peters, Yemi Alade, Vere Shaba, Kevin Lubega, Davido,
Rivo Mhlari, Nasty C and Wiz Kid.



&nbsp;“2019 will
be the fifth anniversary of the FORBES AFRICA Under 30 list. Every year, there
emerges, in the continent of a billion-plus people, young luminaries who are
blazing a trail to the finish line, and the idea of the list is to unearth and
uncover them on their way up,” says FORBES AFRICA’s Managing Editor, Methil
Renuka.



In addition to
the three categories – Creatives, Technology and Business in 2018, this year, FORBES
AFRICA introduces a new category — Sports.



&nbsp;“Leaders
are also born in the world of sport. It requires grit and determination to be a
game-changer and they definitely need to be celebrated early,” says Renuka.



If you think you
have what it takes to be on this year’s list or know an entrepreneur, creative,
technology entrepreneur or sports star under 30 with a proven track-record on
the continent – introduce them to FORBES AFRICA by submitting your nomination.



Nominations
close on 15 February 2019.



NOMINATIONS
CRITERIA:



Business and
Technology categories



<ol><li>Must bean entrepreneur aged 29 or younger on 30 June 2019</li><li>Should have a legitimate REGISTERED business on the continent</li><li>Business or businesses should be two years or older</li><li>Nominees must have risked own money and have a social impact</li><li>Must be profit generating</li><li>Must employ people in Africa</li><li>All applications must be in English</li><li>Should be available and prepared to participate in the Under 30 Meet-Up</li></ol>



Sports
Category



<ol><li>Must be a sports person aged 29 or younger on 30 June 2019</li><li>Must be representing an African team</li><li>Should have a proven track record of no less than two years</li><li>Should be making significant earnings</li><li>Should have some endorsement deals</li><li>Entrepreneurship and social impact is a plus</li><li>All applications must be in English</li><li>Should be available and prepared to participate in the Under 30 Meet-Up</li></ol>



Creatives



<ol><li>Must be a creative aged 29 or younger on 30 June 2019</li><li>Must be from or based in Africa</li><li>Should be making significant earnings</li><li>Should have a proven creative record of no less than two years</li><li>Must have social influence</li><li>Entrepreneurship and social impact is a plus</li><li>All applications must be in English</li><li>Should be available and prepared to participate in the Under 30 Meet-Up</li></ol>



Your entry should include:



<ul><li>Country</li><li>Full Name</li><li>Company name/Team</li><li>A short reason why they should be an Under 30</li><li>Links of published material about nominee</li><li>Contact information</li></ul>



Share your photographs, via email. 



Nominations must be sent to: 



 <a href="mailto:Karen.Mwendera@abn360.com">Karen.Mwendera@abn360.com</a> and<a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)" href="mailto:30under30@abn360.com" target="_blank">30under30@abn360.com</a>



All nominees
will be vetted by a panel, FORBES AFRICA editors and the editorial team.

Tag: 30 under 30

FORBES AFRICA SOCIAL MEDIA

#FORBESAFRICA30Under30 Class of 2023: Meet COVER STAR Mutethia Mbaabu“…build a company that operates several African companies.”