LAGOS, Nigeria — A new generation of African innovators, entrepreneurs, and social leaders was recognized this week at the 2023 Changemaker Awards, hosted by RankBank.org. Ten distinguished individuals received top honors for their groundbreaking work across technology, education, healthcare, women empowerment, and youth development—each shaping a more inclusive and dynamic future for the continent.
The annual ceremony, held in Lagos, celebrated changemakers who are not only transforming industries but also improving lives through bold, empathetic, and innovative leadership.
“These changemakers don’t just build products or platforms—they build hope, equity, and a new narrative for Africa,” the RankBank Awards Committee said in a statement. “The 2023 Changemaker Awards spotlight those leading with boldness, empathy, and innovation.”
The honorees were chosen for their tangible impact in advancing access, opportunity, and empowerment in their respective fields. Here are the award recipients:
2023 Changemaker Award Honorees
- Oluwafunke Kofoworade
Digital Innovation Changemaker of the Year
Lead Product Manager, Meter.ng
Recognized for her leadership in delivering scalable, user-first digital solutions that serve communities across Africa’s tech ecosystem. - Dr. Aisha Bello
Tech Inclusion Advocate of the Year
Founder, SheCodesAfrica
Honored for her commitment to closing the gender gap in STEM by building accessible, community-driven learning platforms for young African women. - Obinna Okwodu
Proptech Disruptor of the Year
CEO, Fibre
Awarded for reshaping Nigeria’s rental market by leveraging technology to deliver flexible and affordable housing options. - Oyinlola Sale
Women Empowerment Champion
Founder, Women Connect
Celebrated for building an entrepreneurial ecosystem that supports and equips women-led ventures across Nigeria. - Tunde Onakoya
Education Impact Leader
Founder, Chess in Slums Africa
Recognized for transforming the lives of underprivileged children by using chess as a gateway to literacy, critical thinking, and self-confidence. - Adewale Yusuf
Media & Innovation Trailblazer
CEO, AltSchool Africa
Acknowledged for pioneering tech-driven education models that are equipping young Africans with future-ready skills. - Chika Uwazie
Future of Work Pioneer
Founder, Koree
Commended for creating new pathways for Africans to access global remote work opportunities and digital income streams. - Ife Durosinmi-Etti
Green Entrepreneurship Advocate
CEO, Herconomy
Recognized for championing financial inclusion and sustainable business practices among African women entrepreneurs. - Samuel Ilubaba
Youth Impact Voice of the Year
Host, The Nigeria Youth Podcast
Honored for elevating youth voices and sparking civic engagement through compelling media and storytelling. - Dr. Ugochukwu Amobi
Health Tech Leader of the Year
Co-Founder, MedBridge
Celebrated for advancing patient-centered healthcare in Africa through digital diagnostics and telemedicine platforms.
In a year defined by global uncertainty and regional transformation, the 2023 Changemaker Class exemplifies the power of African leadership to drive solutions that are both scalable and deeply human.
RankBank.org, a platform committed to spotlighting impact-driven leadership, said the awards are more than recognition—they are a rallying call for a new era of African excellence.
“At RankBank.org, we believe in elevating those who elevate us all,” the organization said. “Tonight, we do just that.”
As these ten changemakers light the path forward, their stories stand as a testament to the potential of vision, action, and purpose—redefining what it means to lead in Africa today.
