Technology entrepreneur and fintech executive, Benjamin Oyemonlan, has hit the ground running in the new year by winning two awards at the CoolWealth Awards held in Lagos.

The founder and chief executive officer of Platnova, a financial technology company focused on cross-border payments and digital banking services for users in Africa, won the Young Entrepreneur of the Year and Humanitarian Personality of the Year awards in bold demonstration of his contributions to the development of the technology space

Benjamin Oyemonlan started his career in software development and financial technology, working on digital payment systems and blockchain-related projects. He gained recognition in parts of the African technology community under the name “Trillbjm” for his involvement in early cryptocurrency and fintech initiatives aimed at young users and small businesses.

According to the award organisers, the recognitions were based on his role in building financial technology products and his involvement in community-focused initiatives.

Reports in Nigerian media have described his early work in software engineering and digital finance, as well as his involvement in projects aimed at improving access to online payments and alternative financial tools for underserved users.

Since its launch, Platnova has operated in several African markets, positioning itself within the growing sector of digital financial services that supports remote work and online commerce.

He was involved in educational support projects, digital-skills training programmes, and community development initiatives aimed at young people and low-income communities. These activities contributed to his selection for the Humanitarian Personality of the Year award in 2026.

Past recipients of the Coolwealth Awards include Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, Ondo State Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, and entertainers such as Jide Kosoko, Yemi Solade, Mr Macaroni, Broda Shaggi and Kenny Blaq