The Future is Africa: Stories of Leadership, Impact, and Global Influence

Welcome to Leading Africa Forward, our monthly newsletter featuring insightful conversations about corporate leadership and entrepreneurship in Africa. We focus on how to drive inclusive and sustainable growth on the continent. We will also showcase trailblazing female leaders driving impactful change on the continent and share updates on our activities. 

Africa Ascends: Leading the Global Stage

Africa’s transformation into a geopolitical powerhouse is undeniable. With Egypt and Ethiopia joining South Africa in BRICS and the African Union’s historic induction as a permanent G20 member, the continent’s influence is solidifying like never before.

As South African President Cyril Ramaphosa assumes the G20 presidency, he is poised to champion Africa’s priorities on the global stage, reinforcing the continent’s emergence as a key partner and driving force for multilateralism and economic inclusion.

This momentum is echoed across the continent. In Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has just ended a landmark state visit to France, welcomed by President Emmanuel Macron —the first by a Nigerian leader in over two decades. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden visits Angola, fulfilling his pledge to engage Sub-Saharan Africa before the end of his term as US President

Africa is no longer a bystander but a central player, reshaping the global order with its immense economic potential. Fueled by a dynamic youth population, abundant natural resources, a surge in tech entrepreneurship, and an expanding consumer market, the continent is positioning itself as a global powerhouse. The stakes are high, and the time is now for Africa to ensure that its seat at the table translates into tangible, transformative outcomes.

Africa isn’t just rising—the continent is leading!

Our News

Women in Philanthropy and Impact Africa (WIPIA) Reception, Lagos

(In photos include: Adenike Adebayo, Alexandra Ekpiken , Bunmi Lawson, Chidinma Lawanson , Chimdindu Onwudiegwu, Comfort Arousa-Osemwegie, Doris Okechukwu Mbadiwe Esq. ACIS , Dr. Olajumoke Akiode PhD , Dr. Kemi Dasilva-Ibru , Dr. Dr Simisola Alabi MBBS MRCGP MSc , Elvira Salleras, Fabia Ogunmekan , Funke Okoya , Nkem Okocha, Odunayo Sanya , Olajumoke Akinwa, Osayi Alile , Rosy Fynn , Somachi Chris-Asoluka , Tochi Ginigeme , Adaobi Okoye , Edith Nnosiri, Chidinma Ezeonyeasi , and Ekanem Ejike .)

Conceived under the auspices of AWCN and following a successful official launch in New York on the sidelines of the UNGA79. WIPIA held a reception alongside the 2nd West Africa Deal Summit 2024 in Lagos. The event brought together influential women leaders and stakeholders in the philanthropy and impact investing sectors. Co-hosted by Dr. Toyin F Sanni , founder of Emerging Africa Group and member of WIPIA’s Advisory Council; Etemore Glover - (MBA) , CEO of Impact Investors’ Foundation; and Dr. Sindy Zemura -Bernard, co-founder of WIPIA, CEO of Southern Africa Embrace Foundation, the event highlighted the collective power of women in driving Africa’s development.

AWCN Paris Hosts Dr. Oduwole

(In photos including: President Emmanuel Macron, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Liliane da Cruz, Fatou Ndiaye, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, and Dr. Anino Emuwa)

Our community in Paris had the honour of hosting Nigeria’s newly appointed Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole , to an intimate luncheon during her time in France as part of PresidentBola Tinubu's delegation on his state visit.

The luncheon was enriched by thought-provoking discussions on inclusive leadership and Nigeria’s trade and investment agenda as pivotal drivers of growth and development. Congratulations once again to Dr. Oduwole, a valued member of our community; we wish her continued success as she drives impactful change in Nigeria and beyond!

We were also present at the France-Nigeria Business Forum, held at the MEDEF Headquarters, where ministers, state governors, and business leaders engaged directly with the French business community. AWCN was pleased to connect with trailblazing female business leaders.

Congratulations to Hon. Bogolo Joy Kenewendo on her appointment as Botswana's Minister of Minerals and Energy! 

She is a renowned economist and trade expert, celebrated globally for her expertise and impact, including being named a Time100 Next Honouree in 2022. Her leadership spans government, advisory roles, and advocacy for gender equality.

We deeply value her support for the Africa Women CEOs Network, especially for honouring us as a guest speaker during our Kigali Business Mission. We wish her continued success in shaping Africa’s future!

What is AWCN?

We are a community of women leading businesses. This peer network helps women combat the “lonely-at-the-top" syndrome by supporting their professional growth through the provision of bespoke leadership development and access to business opportunities. Click here to join us To participate in our events, subscribe to our newsletter and follow Africa Women CEOs Network on LinkedIn.