The jury for the 18th edition of The Future Awards Africa (TFAA) has been unveiled.
Themed: ‘Celebrating the Great and Daring’, this year’s awards ceremony carries on the tradition of recognising and honouring exceptional young Africans who are pushing boundaries and making a significant impact in their communities.
Since its inception, TFAA has become a beacon of hope and inspiration, often referred to as the ‘Nobel Prize for young Africans’. The awards celebrate young people aged between 18 and 31 who have demonstrated remarkable achievements across various sectors, from public service and entrepreneurship to creativity and social innovation.
These high-achieving individuals are vetted through the TFAA selection process, known for its rigour and transparency. This ensures that only the most deserving young Africans are chosen.
This year’s judging process will commence with the Central Working Committee (CWC), followed by evaluations from the Independent Audit Committee (IAC) before the jury makes the final selections.
On the jury selection, Ayodeji Razaq, Executive Director, The Future Awards Africa, said: “The Future Awards are all about celebrating creativity and excellence, so choosing the right jury is crucial. After thorough consideration, we’re confident we’ve assembled a remarkable group of experts whose unbiased perspectives and deep expertise will play a key role in recognising and honouring Africa’s most deserving talents.”
The extraordinary jury of leaders and innovators include Paul Onwuanibe, Founder/Group CEO, Landmark Group; ID Cabasa, music producer; Omoyemi Akerele, Founder/CEO, Lagos Fashion Week; Nkemdilim Uwaje Begho, Founder/CEO, Future Software Resources Ltd; and Ikenna Ogbudimkpa, development sector professional and youth advocate.
Others are Tega Oghenejobo, COO, Mavin Global; Dr. Yemisi Akinbobola, Co-founder, African Women in Media (AWiM); Olumide Makanjuola, storyteller and Human Rights Activist; Obinna Okerekeocha, Creative/ Content Director; Adetutu Laditan, Brand and Marketing Communications Strategist; and Ifeoma Okonkwo, Director of Finance, Mavin Records.
Expressing the jury’s enthusiasm, Onwuanibe stated: “It is a great honour to serve on the jury for The Future Awards Africa, an inspiring platform renowned for celebrating exceptional young people who have blazed new trails in their respective endeavours across the continent. We are dedicated to a rigorous and impartial selection process, ensuring that this prestigious award accurately represents the exceptional and groundbreaking accomplishments of Africa’s brightest. By harnessing our collective expertise, we aim to honour the outstanding achievements of those redefining Africa’s future.”
The IAC, tasked with ensuring the integrity of the selection process, comprises industry leaders like Cynthia Mbamalu, Director of Programes, Yiaga Africa; Ope Ajayi, Founder/CEO, Cinemax Distribution Limited; Gbemi Olateru-Olagbegi, Co-founder & Co-Executive Producer, TNC Africa; Ayo Mairo-Ese, anchor, Arise News; Oyinkansola Fawehinmi (Foza), Founder, Zaeda Oracle; Bola Lawal, CEO, Premia Business Network (PBN); Damilola Olokesusi, Co-founder/CEO, Shuttlers; Femi Bakre, CEO, Kraks Media; Tolani Alli, photographer; Kayode Kasu, Director/Producer, and Latasha Ngwube, media personality and advocate.