FORBES AFRICA is searching for the continent’s most ambitious young entrepreneurs, innovators and trailblazers under the age of 30 who are challenging convention, disrupting industries and shaping Africa’s future.

As we look ahead to 2027, we are seeking young leaders who question the status quo, challenge established ways of thinking and dare to imagine a different future for Africa. At a time when artificial intelligence is transforming industries and creating new possibilities, we are eager to uncover how young innovators are rethinking the rules, building homegrown solutions and addressing the continent’s most pressing problems.

The FORBES AFRICA 30 Under 30 list celebrates young leaders across sectors who are turning bold ideas into meaningful, measurable, lasting impact. Whether in their communities, countries or across the continent, these individuals embody the entrepreneurial spirit and ambition at the heart of the African growth story.

Previous honorees have demonstrated how they can create opportunities, transform industries and position the continent as a driving force for global innovation.

As we prepare for the 13th edition of the FORBES AFRICA 30 Under 30 list in 2027, our selection process remains rigorous. Nominees must provide all the necessary documentation to support their applications and verify their credentials.

This will include a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) or an equivalent official document from their country of residence. Nominees must also disclose any ongoing or pending legal/court cases, as also provide proof of citizenship. Letters from attorneys or legal representatives will not be accepted as proof of citizenship.

In addition, nominees must provide a recommendation/reference letter from their financial institution, such as a bank, confirming the legitimacy of their business or brand, and responsible financial management. We encourage nominees to contact their financial institutions or financial advisors in advance for this requirement. All financial details will be audited by a recognized knowledge partner at our end to ensure transparency, accuracy and credibility throughout the selection process.

The judging process will take place in four stages:

The first stage will be the evaluation of your motivation. If you do not hear back from us, your nomination has been deemed unsuccessful.

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

The third stage will include an assessment of your financial statements, revenue model and credibility, and research into your company/team (no criminal records, troubling lawsuits/bankruptcies, allegations of crime, bad behavior, sexual harassment/abuse cases or fraud).

The final stage will see an expert panel of judges assess shortlisted candidates, whittling the list 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 APPLICATION CRITERIA:

Please read the following carefully before applying.

Business and Technology categories

Must be an entrepreneur/founder aged 29 or younger as on May 31, 2027

Should have a legitimate REGISTERED business on the continent

Business/businesses should be two years or older (please ensure you have your audited financial documents for at least two years as well as your company’s registration documents; should you make the second stage, this will be required)

The more innovative the business the better (as it speaks to Africa’s growth story)

Have you/your company created social impact on the African continent?

The company must be profit-generating

Must employ people in Africa

All applications must be in English

Sports category

Must be a sports person aged 29 or younger as on May 31, 2027

Must be representing an African team

Should have a proven track-record of no less than two years

Should have significant earnings

Endorsement deals and/or awards of any kind would be a bonus

Entrepreneurship and social impact are a plus, especially if applying under the Business/Technology category. However, must follow the same criteria as under Business/Technology

All applications must be in English

Creatives category

Must be a creative aged 29 or younger as on May 31, 2027

Must be from or based in Africa

Should have significant earnings

Should have a proven creative record of no less than two years

Awards/recognition of any kind should be mentioned

Social media presence will be taken into consideration

Entrepreneurship and social impact are a plus, especially if applying under the Business/Technology category. However, the business must be legitimate, registered and also two years or older

All applications must be in English

Health/Science category

Must be a creative aged 29 or younger as on May 31, 2027

Must be from or based in Africa

Should have a proven track-record in the field of health and/or science for no less than two years

Must have social influence and impact

If the nominee is a doctor/professor, please provide documentation and a reference letter from the institution where the applicant received a doctorate or Ph.D.

Entrepreneurship and social impact are a plus, especially if applying under the Business/Technology category. However, the business must be legitimate, registered, and also two years or older

All applications must be in English

Nominate here: https://forbesafrica.typeform.com/africaunder3027

For more information, email editorial@forbesafrica.com

FORBES AFRICA SOCIAL MEDIA

The 13th Annual List–Call For Nominations To FORBES AFRICA’s 30 Under 30 Class Of 2027