Africa’s leading youth entrepreneurship initiative, the Anzisha Prize, recently announced the 2024 winners during the Entrepreneurship Education in Africa Awards (EEA) gala held in Johannesburg, South Africa. The event celebrated the achievements of Mathias Yabe, Nzinga Antonio, Sharon Alyorneku, and Ivo Bonfirm, each of whom received a prize of $10,000 and a comprehensive support package, including mentorship, coaching, training, and networking opportunities.
Highlighting Exceptional Impact
Mathias Charles Yabe from Ghana was honored for his innovative job creation efforts through his business, Ako Fresh. His company provides farmers with solar-powered cold storage services, extending the shelf life of crops and minimizing post-harvest losses. This initiative not only creates jobs across its supply chain but also supports sustainable agricultural practices.
Nzinga António from Angola received the award for outstanding system delivery for her bakery, Confeitaria Gailza. By streamlining her production process, she has significantly improved her operations, ensuring faster delivery of cakes and pastry products to consumers.
Sharon Alyorneku from Ghana was recognized for her storytelling through Peng Street, a fashion house catering to the style needs of university students across Africa. Her business is celebrated for redefining African fashion for young people.
Ivo Bonfirm, founder and CEO of Óptica Ipris Vision Centre in Angola, was awarded for revenue growth. His company, which manufactures lenses and frames for eyeglasses, has made significant strides in the eyewear industry.
Fostering Africa’s Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
The Anzisha Prize, in partnership with the African Leadership Academy and Mastercard Foundation, continues to identify and support exceptional young entrepreneurs who are driving positive change in their communities. This year, the Prize received a record number of applications, with over 1,000 young entrepreneurs across the continent competing for a spot in the prestigious program.
Dave Tait, Senior Director of Entrepreneurial Education Programs at the Anzisha Prize, emphasized the significance of the awards: “These young entrepreneurs are the future of Africa’s economic growth, development, and job creation. Their dedication, creativity, and resilience are truly inspiring.”
The EEA Gala brought together key stakeholders from various sectors, providing a platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and celebrating the accomplishments of young African entrepreneurs. Hatim Eltayeb, CEO of the African Leadership Academy, noted the event’s importance in showcasing the talent and potential of Africa’s youth and driving the necessary change in entrepreneurship education across the continent.
For more information on the Anzisha Prize and the Entrepreneurship Education in Africa (EEA) Summit/Gala, visit [www.anzishaprize.org](http://www.anzishaprize.org).
