In the words of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, “Never ever accept ‘Because you are a woman’ as a reason for doing or not doing anything.”
Across industries, African women are breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and redefining success. From Film & Entertainment to Politics & Journalism, Music & Media, Fashion & Creativity, Tech & Business, and Food & Lifestyle. These women are not just pushing boundaries. There are setting new standards, building legacies, and showing that being bold, fearless, and excellent is the only way forward.
For International Women’s Day, we celebrate these remarkable changemakers who are shaking up industries across the African continent.
Jade Osiberu
When you think of modern Nollywood’s biggest films, Jade Osiberu is a name that stands out. As the mastermind behind Gangs of Lagos, Brotherhood, Sugar Rush, Christmas in Lagos, and Isoken, she has redefined Nigerian storytelling, blending culture, action, and emotional depth in a way that captivates global audiences.
Through Greoh Studios, Jade is pushing Nollywood beyond borders, proving that Nigerian cinema is not just thriving—it’s making its mark worldwide. With every film, she cements her legacy as a trailblazer, ensuring that African stories are told boldly, brilliantly, and without limits.
Praise Onyeagwalam
In an industry dominated by men, Praise Onyeagwalam known as Director Pink, stands out as one of Nigeria’s most promising cinematographers and video directors. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for visual storytelling, she has carved a space for herself in the world of music and film. Having worked with top artists like Davido, Chike, and Funke Akindele, her portfolio speaks volumes.
In 2023, she won the Afrimma Award for Best Video Director, a recognition of her impact in shaping the visual narrative of African music, film, and culture. She stands in the gap and symbolic representation that African women are not just part of the industry. They are redefining it.
Deola Art Alade
Deola Art Alade is the visionary force behind some of Africa’s most iconic entertainment experiences. As the driving mind behind Livespot X Festival, she has delivered unforgettable concerts featuring global superstars. She is also the mastermind behind Entertainment Week Lagos (EWL) and the producer of The Real Housewives of Lagos, a show that has placed Nigeria’s pop culture firmly on the global reality TV map.
Whether behind the scenes or in the boardroom, Deola is proof that African women don’t just participate in the entertainment industry. They run the show!
Adesuwa Giwa-Osagie
Adesuwa Osagie is one of the strongest voices of political consciousness in the new generation, using journalism as a tool for enlightenment. Whether managing podcasts, anchoring the news at Arise TV, or running Untold Stories Nigeria, a platform dedicated to deep diving into overlooked people and issues. She brings depth, clarity, and fearlessness to her reporting.
Beyond journalism, she is also the founder of Tipsy Treats, proving that women can be multidimensional and thrive in multiple spaces. Her work is a testament to the power of informed storytelling and bold, impactful journalism.
Tshwenlo Marendi
For over a decade, Tshwenlo Marendi has been a driving force behind the scenes, shaping the African music industry with expertise and innovation. From holding key roles at MultiChoice Group, Showmax, and Trace as a Marketing and Music Programming Specialist to her current position at Apple, her influence is undeniable.
At Apple, where she recently celebrated five years, Tshwenlo has been instrumental in pushing African music to the forefront. Dedicating a category page to Afrobeats, curating playlists that amplify African artists, and ensuring that African music not only belongs but thrives on the global stage. Her work is proof that the world is finally tuning in to Africa’s sound
Antoinette Boama
Where music meets intellectual property, contracts, and rights protection, Antoinette Boama is leading the charge. As one of Ghana’s female foremost music industry lawyers, she has been instrumental in bridging the gap between law and music, ensuring that African artists, producers, and creatives receive the legal protection and deals they deserve.
Her work is shaping a fairer and more structured music industry, safeguarding the rights of those who bring African music to the world
Renike Olusanya
Renike Olusanya is a multifaceted artist making her mark across industries, from book covers to digital art and fashion. She first gained recognition as an illustrator, creating stunning works like the cover for Instructions for Dancing by Nicola Yoon.
Now, she’s proving that art and business can coexist beautifully. Recently, she expanded into fashion, launching Shop Bawsty, a ready-to-wear brand in collaboration with Damilola Onasowo. Loved by the girlies for its effortless blend of efficiency and chic design, Shop Bawsty is redefining everyday fashion, making women feel both beautiful and comfortable.
Tosin Olaseinde
If money had a best friend, it would be Tosin Olaseinde. As the founder of Money Africa and Ladda Nigeria, she has revolutionized financial literacy by making finance, investing, and wealth-building accessible to young Africans.
Her work goes beyond teaching people how to make money. She ensures they learn how to grow and sustain it. Through her platforms, Tosin is empowering a new generation to take control of their financial future with confidence and knowledge.
Ada Nduka Oyom
Ada Nduka Oyom is a driving force behind the growth of women in STEM, rooted in the belief that women not only belong in tech, engineering, and coding, but should thrive there.
As the founder of She Code Africa, she has built a vibrant community of African women in STEM, providing mentorship, training, and job opportunities. Through her work, she is not only bridging the gender gap in technology but also paving the way for the next generation of women to excel in groundbreaking career paths.
Ohema Akuaka
Creativity flourishes in supportive communities, and Ohema Akuaku is ensuring that African creatives have the spaces and resources they need to thrive. As the co-founder of Jambo Spaces, she has built a dynamic creative hub in Ghana, providing a space for artists, writers, designers, and content creators to collaborate, network, and grow.
Beyond building creative spaces, she is also the manager of Moliy, one of Ghana’s finest voices and rising stars. Through her expertise in talent management and community-building, she continues to play a crucial role in shaping Ghana’s creative and music landscapes.
Through her work, Ohema Akuaku is fostering a culture of innovation, empowering the next generation of African creatives to push boundaries and make their mark on the global stage.
Charlotte Bwana
Few people understand the business of music streaming in Africa like Charlotte Bwana. As Vice President of Marketing and Brand Strategy at Audiomack, she has played a key role in expanding the platform’s presence across the continent.
Her expertise in marketing and partnerships has led to major collaborations, ensuring that African artists receive the global exposure they deserve. In 2022, her impact was recognized on Billboard’s International Power Players List, cementing her influence in shaping the future of African music as well as streaming platforms for their benefits.
Anyiko Owoko
For over a decade, Anyiko Owoko has been at the forefront of East Africa’s music and entertainment industry. Beginning her career as a TV host, she seamlessly transitioned into music PR and talent management, playing a vital role in amplifying African artists on the global stage.
Beyond artist management, Owoko runs a music and culture podcast and a VIP travel and tour booking service, further solidifying her influence in the industry. With an unwavering commitment to elevating African talent, she has cemented her reputation as one of East Africa’s most powerful voices in music and entertainment
Ifedayo Nupo
The world is Ifedayo Nupo’s runway, and she’s making sure it’s bold, colorful, and unforgettable. As the founder of Moye Africa, she creates instantly recognizable prints and statement pieces that celebrate the richness of African fashion.
In addition to her work with Moye Africa, she runs Idiol Nupo, a bridal and occasion-wear brand that fuses modern silhouettes with African elegance, leaving a lasting impression. Through her visionary designs, Nupo continues to push the boundaries of African fashion, ensuring its beauty resonates culturally as well as globally.
Monica Kemoli
Monica Kemoli is a monumental figure shaping Africa’s music industry through her work at Spotify. As Spotify’s East Africa Label Partnerships Manager, she has played a crucial role in expanding the reach of African music on a global scale.
Beyond her corporate contributions, she is the founder of Tangaza Magazine, a Kenyan media publication dedicated to spotlighting emerging artists and celebrating culture. Through her efforts, Kemoli has facilitated key partnerships for fast-rising African artists, ensuring they gain the visibility and recognition they deserve.
Beenewah Boateng
Beenewah Boateng is a visionary media and music innovator dedicated to shaping the future of African artistry. As the founder of Harmattan Rain and Rain Labs, she has built a pioneering media agency committed to spotlighting and nurturing emerging African artists.
Beyond her entrepreneurial impact, Boateng serves as a Senior Editor at Spotify Africa, where she continues to amplify African voices and drive the continent’s music culture forward. Through her work, she is redefining how African talent is discovered, supported, and celebrated on global stages.
Stefi Adamu
Stefi Adamu, known as Stefi K, is a leading advocate for championing gender inclusion at the heart of Afrobeats. With over a decade of experience in the industry, she has held key positions at Universal Music Group (UMG) Nigeria and EMPIRE, playing a pivotal role in bringing African music to global stages.
Beyond her corporate impact, Stefi is the founder of Girls in Afrobeats, a platform dedicated to empowering women and fostering gender inclusivity within the African music space. Through her work, she is dedicated to ensuring that women have a lasting and influential presence in the industry.
Rima Tahini Ighodaro
Rima Tahini Ighodaro is a pivotal force shaping the African music industry, seamlessly bridging the worlds of business and artistry. From spotlighting fast-rising stars to shaping the success of Afrobeats’ most impactful newcomers, she plays a crucial role in driving the genre’s global influence.
Currently, at the pinnacle of her career, Tahini balances the demands of leadership as she manages Rema & Ayra Starr with the beauty of motherhood, proving that women can excel in every sphere. Through her vision and expertise, she continues to redefine the landscape of African music, ensuring its evolution and lasting impact
Fifi Osinubi
Fifi Osinubi is a dedicated advocate for women’s empowerment, using the media as a tool for change. As the founder of 21 Magazine, she has created a platform that amplifies the voices of African women, shedding light on stories often overlooked by mainstream press.
Through 21 Mag, Fifi Osinubi goes beyond storytelling, her work extends into community service, advocacy, and initiatives that uplift and inspire. The publication has become the go-to media platform for the “girl’s girl,” championing women’s achievements and fostering a strong sense of sisterhood.
She stands in the gap as a fearless voice for African women, breaking records, making history, and shaping Africa’s future.
Saraf Diouf
Sarah Diouf is a trailblazer in the African fashion industry, redefining luxury with her Senegalese heritage. As the founder of Tongoro, a high-end fashion brand based in Dakar, she is known for her regal aesthetic and striking, culturally infused designs.
Inspired by multiculturalism and the rich artistry of Africa, Diouf has positioned Tongoro as a beacon of contemporary African fashion. Her designs have graced global icons, most notably Beyoncé, who wore a custom Tongoro piece during her Renaissance tour.
Beyond fashion, Diouf is a champion of Black women’s empowerment, using her platform to celebrate African craftsmanship and promote sustainable, locally made designs. Through her visionary work, she continues to shape the narrative of African luxury on the world stage.
Adama Ndiaye
Adama Ndiaye is an innovative fashion designer and entrepreneur, spearheading global projects that elevate African fashion on the world stage. She is passionate about showcasing the richness of African design, and has dedicated her career to bridging the gap between tradition and modernity.
As the founder of Dakar Fashion Week, Adama has played a pivotal role in positioning Senegal as a hub for fashion excellence. She is also the visionary behind Adama Paris, a brand that embodies the fusion of African heritage with contemporary style, and Saargale, a multi-brand retail store that supports and promotes African designers.
Through her innovative work, she continues to shape the narrative of African fashion, ensuring its place in both the global market and mainstream fashion conversations.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let’s continue to support, and uplift the women leading Africa into the future.
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