This year’s honorees span diverse sectors from digital product innovation and education, to health tech, financial inclusion, and women empowerment each exemplifying what is possible when bold leadership meets purpose-driven action.
“The 2023 Changemaker Awards spotlight those leading with boldness, empathy, and innovation,” the Awards Committee said in a statement. “These changemakers don’t just build products or platforms they build hope, equity, and a new narrative for Africa.”
The ceremony, held in Lagos on Monday evening, highlighted a new generation of African leaders forging inclusive futures and redefining what leadership looks like in today’s rapidly evolving landscape.
Meet the 2023 Changemaker Class:
Oluwafunke Kofoworade – Digital Innovation Changemaker of the Year
Lead Product Manager at FastaMoni Technologies
Recognized for developing scalable, user-first digital solutions within Africa’s growing tech ecosystem.
Dr. Aisha Bello – Tech Inclusion Advocate of the Year
Founder, SheCodesAfrica
Honored for her work in closing the gender gap in STEM through grassroots education and mentorship.
Obinna Okwodu – Proptech Disruptor of the Year
CEO, Fibre
Credited with revolutionizing Nigeria’s housing sector through flexible, tech-enabled rental solutions.
Oyinlola Sale – Women Empowerment Champion
Founder, Women Connect
Celebrated for creating platforms that empower and equip female entrepreneurs across Nigeria.
Tunde Onakoya – Education Impact Leader
Founder, Chess in Slums Africa
Recognized for using chess as a transformative tool for education and social mobility among marginalized youth.
Adewale Yusuf – Media & Innovation Trailblazer
CEO, AltSchool Africa
Applauded for reimagining learning through tech-forward education models for African learners.
Chika Uwazie – Future of Work Pioneer
Founder, Koree
Honored for creating access to global remote work opportunities for African talent.
Ife Durosinmi-Etti – Green Entrepreneurship Advocate
CEO, Herconomy
Acknowledged for her efforts in promoting financial inclusion and sustainable entrepreneurship for women.
Samuel Ilubaba – Youth Impact Voice of the Year
Host, The Nigeria Youth Podcast
Celebrated for fostering critical discourse and youth engagement through media.
Dr. Ugochukwu Amobi – Health Tech Leader of the Year
Co-Founder, MedBridge
Recognized for pioneering patient-centered care through telemedicine and digital diagnostics.
As the continent navigates rapid technological, social, and economic change, these honorees stand at the forefront bridging divides, challenging norms, and lighting a path forward for millions.
At RankBank.org, the mission remains clear: to elevate those who elevate us all. And with this year’s Changemaker Class, the future of Africa has never looked brighter.