Future Awards Africa Unveils Jury for 19th Edition
The Future Awards Africa (TFAA), often described as the “Nobel Prize for young Africans,” has announced its jury for the 19th edition. This year’s theme, “Threads of Legacy,” emphasizes the footprints young leaders are leaving for future generations.
For nearly 20 years, TFAA has celebrated exceptional Africans between the ages of 18 and 33 who are redefining leadership, creativity, and impact in areas such as public service, entrepreneurship, innovation, culture, and social change.
Why TFAA Matters for Young Africans
TFAA is not just an award; it is a platform that empowers African youth to showcase their ideas and work on a global stage. The awards highlight individuals who are solving problems in their communities, inspiring change, and creating opportunities for others.
Young people can benefit from TFAA in several ways:
Recognition and Visibility: Being nominated or shortlisted opens doors for collaborations, partnerships, and funding.
Networking Opportunities: Finalists and winners often connect with influential leaders across industries.
Inspiration: Even if you are not a nominee, following the stories of past and current winners provides practical lessons on resilience, leadership, and innovation.
Encouragement to Act: TFAA reminds young people that age is not a limitation to making impact.
A Rigorous and Transparent Process
The awards follow a structured system that ensures credibility. Nominations are first reviewed by the Central Working Committee, then evaluated by the Independent Audit Committee, before final decisions are made by the jury.
This year’s jury includes accomplished professionals like:
Ikenna Ogbudimkpa – Policy Lead, LEAP Africa
Paul Onwuanibe – Founder & Group CEO, Landmark Group
Dr Ifeanyi Nsofor – Co-Founder, Africa Behavioural Science Network
Damilola Olokesusi – Co-founder/CEO, Shuttlers
Dr Yemisi Akinbobola – CEO, African Women in Media, among others.
“Serving on this jury is an opportunity to honour young people who are not only excelling in their fields but also leaving footprints for others to follow. The Future Awards Africa is about continuity, ensuring that today’s brilliance inspires tomorrow’s leaders.”- Ikenna Ogbudimkpa
How You Can Benefit from TFAA
Nominate Yourself or Others: If you or someone you know is doing impactful work, ensure they are nominated. Recognition often brings resources to scale up their efforts.
Learn from the Nominees: Study the success stories of nominees and winners to apply practical strategies to your own goals.
Engage with the Platform: Follow TFAA updates, attend events, and participate in conversations online to grow your network and visibility.
Be Inspired to Act: Use TFAA stories as motivation to start your own journey of impact, no matter how small.
The Future Awards Africa continues to stand as a beacon of hope and inspiration for young Africans. By recognizing and celebrating excellence, it not only honors today’s leaders but also motivates others to dream bigger and act. For every young African, TFAA is a reminder that your work today can become the legacy that shapes tomorrow.
