Africa’s prestigious awards platform that celebrates young African excellence, The Future Awards Africa (TFAA), has unveiled nominees for its highly anticipated 19th edition.

This year’s ceremony, themed, “Threads of Legacy,” shines the spotlight on the young change-makers whose work today is shaping the fabric of Africa’s tomorrow. The nominees represent a cross section of the continent’s brightest minds and boldest talents — creators, tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, advocates, innovators, educators, and leaders who are not just breaking boundaries but weaving enduring legacies.

In recognition of the growing diversity of young African achievement, this year’s edition features 25 categories, the most in TFAA history. Arts and Literature have been split into two distinct categories, with Performing Arts introduced to celebrate dynamic expressions on stage and beyond, while Service to Young People (an honorary category) has been added to honour exceptional individuals championing youth causes across the continent.

Speaking on this year’s nominees, Executive Director of The Future Awards Africa, Ayodeji Razaq, said, “the story of Africa’s future is being written today, thread by thread, through the work of these nominees. They are artists, tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, advocates, and innovators whose achievements do more than inspire — they create legacies that others can build on.

“Each name on this list is proof that young Africans are not waiting for the future to happen; they are actively shaping it. This is what The Future Awards Africa exists to celebrate. We are honoured to spotlight their stories, preserve their contributions as part of Africa’s collective memory, and excited for the mark they will leave on generations to come.”

This year’s list of nominees includes notable names such as Rasheedat Ajibade, Fola David, Akinyemi Oluwaseun Omotayo (Asherkine), Victor Ugo, Poco Lee, Gbubemi Ejeye, Tomike Adeoye, Kelvin Umechukwu, Hauwa Shaffii Nuhu, and Dongio Casil (Djec Fashion) from Cameroon, each representing the spirit of youth-led impact that defines TFAA.

The awards will be judged by a distinguished panel of leaders and visionaries who have left indelible marks on their fields, ensuring a rigorous and transparent selection process that reflects the excellence of the nominees. TFAA 2025 promises to be a celebration of innovation, courage, and legacy; a reminder that the future is here, now, and African.