5 INSPIRING WINNERS OF THE AFRICAN BUSINESS LEADERSHIP AWARDS
Africa has always been a place of immense opportunities for entrepreneurs and business leaders. Despite facing numerous challenges, African entrepreneurs have continued to thrive and expand their businesses while creating new jobs and contributing to the continent’s economic growth.
That being said, the African Business Leadership Awards (ABLA) was established to recognize and celebrate the achievements of these successful entrepreneurs and business leaders. The ABLA recognises outstanding individuals who have contributed significantly to Africa’s growth and development across multiple sectors.
Over the years, many outstanding Africans have been recognised for their exceptional contributions to their respective industries. Here, we highlight five inspiring winners of the African Business Leadership Awards:
Tony Elumelu
Tony Elumelu, a Nigerian entrepreneur, was awarded the African Business Leader of the Year award at the 2013 ABLA ceremony. Mr. Elumelu is the founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, which provides funding, training, and mentorship to African entrepreneurs. He is also the Chairman of Heirs Holdings, a pan-African investment company with interests in banking, energy, and real estate.
Strive Masiyiwa
Strive Masiyiwa, a Zimbabwean businessman, won the ABLA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019. He is the founder and executive chairman of Econet Group, a telecommunications and technology company with operations in more than 20 countries in Africa, Europe, and Asia. Mr. Masiyiwa has also been involved in several philanthropic activities and is a strong advocate for social responsibility.
Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu
Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu, an Ethiopian entrepreneur, won the ABLA Outstanding Women in Business Award in 2016. She is the founder and CEO of soleRebels, a footwear company that uses recycled and sustainable materials. The company has provided employment opportunities for local artisans in Ethiopia and has expanded its operations to several other countries.
Ashish Thakkar
Ashish Thakkar, a Ugandan entrepreneur, won the ABLA Young Business Leader of the Year Award in 2013. He is the founder and CEO of Mara Group, a pan-African conglomerate with interests in finance, technology, and manufacturing. Mr. Thakkar is also the founder of Mara Foundation, which provides mentorship and funding to young entrepreneurs in Africa.
Mohammed Dewji
Mohammed Dewji, a Tanzanian businessman and philanthropist, won the ABLA Philanthropist of the Year Award in 2015. He is the CEO of MeTL Group, a conglomerate with interests in manufacturing, agriculture, and real estate. Mr. Dewji has also been actively involved in several philanthropic activities, such as supporting education and healthcare initiatives in Tanzania.
In conclusion, the African Business Leadership Awards have recognised the achievements of several outstanding entrepreneurs and business leaders across Africa. These individuals have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and have made significant contributions to their respective industries while creating jobs and boosting economic growth. Their stories are truly inspiring and serve as a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that exists in Africa.
