30 Most Famous Africans Under 30 Years (2023)


 

In a world where youth are frequently disregarded, Africa is loudly expressing itself. Rising talent on the continent is shattering stereotypes and making a name for itself at the forefront of advancement in innovation, culture, and society. As we approach the end of 2023, we encounter a dynamic group of under-30-year-old visionaries, trailblazers, and change-makers.

These young Africans are turning their ideas into action and their passions into purpose, wherever they may be found from the busy streets of Lagos to the tranquil landscapes of Rwanda and all points in between. They are the designers of cutting-edge technology, the producers of captivating art, the defenders of social justice, and the businesspeople propelling the continent鈥檚 economic expansion. These thirty young Africans represent the living embodiment of Africa today, a continent full of vitality, inventiveness, and unrealized potential.

Let鈥檚 take you on an engrossing journey as we take a look at the engaging stories and astounding accomplishments of these young, well-known Africans. They serve as an example of the limitless opportunities that lie ahead in the African story of 2023 and beyond, demonstrating that age is no longer a barrier to impact.

1. Davido (David Adedeji Adeleke OON)

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Nigerian music sensation Davido comes in number one in the list of the 鈥30 Most Famous Africans Under 30 in 2023.鈥 He has become an international Afrobeat music icon thanks to his natural ability to write singles that reach the top of the charts and enthrall fans everywhere.

Born David Adedeji Adeleke, this multi-talented singer has succeeded in business and philanthropy in addition to dominating the music world. His business endeavors and charity endeavors are changing the story of African youth.

Davido, who is just under 30, personifies the African Renaissance and shows that being older does not prevent one from becoming well-known and successful worldwide. His reputation is indelible in the history of African entertainment.

2. Tems (Temilade Openiyi)

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Tems, whose real name is Temilade Openiyi, is a rising star in the music business who embodies the contemporary R&B and Afrobeat trends. This gifted Nigerian singer-songwriter has become well-known for her deep, melodic voice, which enthralls listeners with her dreamy, emotional soundscapes. She has captured the attention of listeners all over the world with songs like 鈥淢r. Rebel鈥 and 鈥淒amages,鈥 solidifying her status as one of the most promising new voices in modern African music.

Beyond just her singing ability, Tems represents freedom, empowerment, and a new voice in the music business. She is an interesting musician to watch as she continues to create new ground in the music industry thanks to her distinctive blend of genres and thought-provoking lyrics.

3. Lethabo 鈥楩ocalistic鈥 Sebetso

Lethabo 鈥楩ocalistic鈥 Sebetso, a rising star in South Africa鈥檚 music scene, has been sweeping the market with his distinct amapiano and hip-hop fusion. Focalistic was born in Pretoria, and his poetic skill and captivating stage presence have made him a household name.

His hit songs like 鈥淜e Star鈥 and 鈥淕upta,鈥 which have become national youth anthems, are among his best-known compositions. Focalistic has garnered a devoted following and multiple acclaims thanks to his unique approach, which is defined by his infectious tunes and clever wordplay. He is a cultural icon as well as a musician, embodying the dynamic synthesis of musical genres that characterizes contemporary South African music.

4. Ayra Starr (Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe)

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Ayra Starr is a rising talent in the music industry who captivates listeners with her passionate lyrics and distinctive style. She is a Nigerian native who rose to fame after being discovered for her extraordinary talent. Afrobeats, soul, and R&B are all expertly blended in Ayra鈥檚 music to create a unique and contemporary sound that appeals to listeners all over the world.

She demonstrated her versatility in her career with her debut self-titled EP, which included 鈥淎way鈥 and 鈥淚ja.鈥 Ayra鈥檚 songwriting abilities are what set her apart; she writes songs that explore themes of empowerment, love, and self-discovery. Ayra Starr is an artist to watch, with a bright future and a tonne of promise.

5. Kay Yarms (Khethokuhle Ngonyama)

Born on 5th April 1994, Khethokuhle Ngonyama, popularly known as Kay Yarms, is a gifted South African beauty influencer. She has years of experience in the beauty sector. Many upcoming and aspiring makeup artists find inspiration in her narrative.

She gave up her studies to pursue her passion. Many are astonished by Kay鈥檚 work, particularly how she managed to acquire the magical touch of what she does best.

In addition, the self-taught beauty personality provides detailed instructions on how she applied certain cosmetic looks on her YouTube channel. She is active on social media, posting her artwork there. Saxx Beauty is a beauty brand that she founded and owns.

6. Dr. Wedu Tose Somolekae

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29 years old Dr Wedu from Botswana is another inspiration that has to be on this list. She studied medicine to become a paediatrician but she decided to take another path which made her renowned globally.

In 2021, Dr Wedu decided to quit her job as a Medical Officer in Masunga to take part in something that she never knew would make her a success. She began Botswana鈥檚 first full-time Medical Aesthetics Practice.

In two years, Dr. Wedu became a self-made young innovator and leader who got listed in the Forbes Africa 20 Under 30. She became the first Motswana female to be listed in such a renowned magazine in which she appeared on the cover.

鈥淚t is a complete honor to be considered as part of the young innovators and wave makers on the African continent. I feel encouraged and affirmed about the path I鈥檝e chosen, which is not often taken.鈥 Dr Wedu stated.

7. Rosalia Nghitalesheni Joseph

Rosalia is a public health researcher and medical entomologist from Namibia. She has more than five years of expertise in research, consulting, laboratory work, and pest management making her Namibia鈥檚 first female medical entomologist. Her immense support for Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG3) and ensuring that everyone has access to high-quality healthcare services are two of her dedications.

Rosalia is presently serving as the Pan-African Mosquito Control Association鈥檚 Women in Vector Control Regional Coordinator for Central and Southern Africa. She is also a part of the Roll Back Malaria Youth Workstream and the ALMA country lead for champions of the Malaria Youth Army in Namibia.

For her efforts and dedication to vector control, Rosalia was awarded the Pan-African Mosquito Control Association鈥檚 Women in Vector Control Excellence Award (Early-career runner-up) in 2021. She is a huge supporter of having more women involved in vector control. Rosalia thinks that women鈥檚 participation in the sector is crucial to success since they contribute special views and ideas to it.

8. Dr Olivier Uwishema

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Dr. Olivier Uwishema is an amazing scientist, an aspiring doctor, and the founder and chairman of the Oli Health Magazine Organisation (OHMO). OHMO is a non-profit organization and worldwide scientific research academy whose mission is to involve youth in scientific research and professional health education.

Dr. Uwishema has received recognition for his exceptional work in infectious illnesses, public health, and neuro-oncology, and he is one of Forbes 30 Under 30 in Medicine and Research. In addition, he is a member of The Queen鈥檚 Commonwealth Trust Network and the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. Along with his accomplishments in academia and research, Dr. Uwishema is a committed volunteer in health care and a leader in global health.

9. Joel Embiid

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One of the biggest names in the NBA is Joel Embiid, a titan of the basketball world. He is from Cameroon, and his remarkable abilities and adaptability on the court helped him become well-known very fast. Embiid鈥檚 intimidating presence, shot-blocking skills, and offensive ability define his domination as a center.

He is a multi-time NBA All-Star who is essential to the Philadelphia 76ers, leading by example and exhibiting sportsmanship. Joel Embiid has won over admirers all around the world with his captivating and engaging demeanor, which extends beyond his accomplishments on the court. He is regarded and adored in the basketball community as a result of his transformation from a bright prospect to a superstar.

10. Nompumelelo 鈥楳poomy鈥 Ledwaba

Nompumelelo Ledwaba, also known as Mpoomy, is a multi-talented businesswoman, wife, mother, speaker, podcaster, YouTuber, and content creator. She was born in Middelburg, Mpumalanga, on 23rd January 1994, and later moved to Johannesburg, where she enrolled in the University of Johannesburg (UJ) to study accounting.

Her true aspiration was to pursue a career in singing. Her primary objective was to bring value to people鈥檚 lives, and it was this road that made her a household brand and a leader in the digital economy, which has helped many businesses flourish. Her sincere connections were mostly the outcome of this desire.

11. Yvette Ishimwe

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Yvette took the experience of lack of water in her society to university, where she learned that the issue of water access extended much beyond her neighborhood. At a business competition, she pitched the solution she had developed for her family, and she won $10,000 to carry out the concept more broadly. Instead of having water trucked in from the Lake, the kitty was able to construct a solar-powered water plant that would pump water from the valley鈥檚 natural spring and pipe it upward into water kiosks where people could conveniently obtain it.

Motivated by her village鈥檚 achievements, Yvette founded Iriba Water Group, a social enterprise addressing the issue of drinking water scarcity in Rwanda and other economically disadvantaged African nations. The Tap and drink systems manufactured by the company are situated in public areas such as parking lots, schools, and marketplaces.

They are designed to purify municipal tap water. A 鈥渨ater ATM card鈥 allows the general public to access water, and Iriba uses a software management system to monitor usage. The systems are operated by franchisees, who also contribute to the company鈥檚 primary goal by creating jobs locally.

12. Oluwabusayo Victoria Abiri

Oluwabusayo Victoria Abiri is the brains behind The Kokobykhloe. The BBNaija 2018 housemate is not only a successful fashion and beauty brand owner, but she also works as an actress and model. And represents several major businesses as an influencer and brand ambassador.

Talking about her success, Victoria stated that life in Africa is not for the fainthearted as she started small and grew to become a famous young African. She always works hard to ensure that African ladies appreciate their dark complexity.

13. Hansel Ndu Okeke

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Hansel is a creative, performance-focused businessman who has a strong interest in business and technology. He is the founder and CEO of the purpose-driven technology consulting firm Weevil Company in Nigeria, which specializes in digital transformation and data analytics for businesses.

He has guided his team to complete significant projects that have a significant influence on both national and international government organizations. Hansel is a skilled multitasker and a strong leader with improved communication skills.

14. Germain Ndu-Okeke

Young Africans are in the tech industry which has made them much influential in the world. 24-year-old Germain Ndu-Okeke, brother to 28-year-old Hansel is one of the bright minds in the tech industry. He is the co-founder of Weevil Company alongside his brother.

15. Victor Osimhen

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Victor Osimhen, who rose to prominence in the football world, has become one of Africa鈥檚 most renowned individuals. Osimhen, a prolific striker from Nigeria, is well-known throughout the world for his extraordinary talent, quickness, and scoring prowess. His remarkable rise from humble origins to prominent European clubs, such as Napoli in Serie A, has served as an inspiration to a great number of youthful football fans throughout the continent.

In addition to his skill in the field, Osimhen is well-known for his charitable work, supporting causes like youth empowerment and access to healthcare in Africa. His reputation as one of Africa鈥檚 most well-known and significant figures has been cemented by his charisma and commitment to humanitarian causes and sports.

16. Asisat Oshoala

Asisat Oshoala is a professional football player from Nigeria who plays as the striker for both the Nigeria women鈥檚 national team and FC Barcelona, a team in the Spanish Liga F. She is considered by many to be among the best female African football players ever and the best in the world.

Over her career, Oshoala has received multiple honors for both herself and her team. In addition to winning the Women鈥檚 Africa Cup of Nations three times, she holds the record for most African Women鈥檚 Footballer of the Year wins with five. She was added to FIFA鈥檚 technical advisory group on the development and advancement of women鈥檚 football in 2021, and she was listed as one of Forbes 30 Under 30.

Oshoala is an ardent supporter of girls鈥 education and women鈥檚 football. The Asisat Oshoala Foundation, which she started, aims to empower female football players throughout Africa. She also serves as a role model for young people everywhere in the world.

17. Mohammed Kudus

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Mohammed Kudus is a rising star in the football world whose extraordinary talent and bright future are amazing to both fans and analysts. Kudus, a Ghanaian native, has quickly gained recognition for his exceptional abilities and adaptability on the field.

His career was paved with his early development at the Right to Dream Academy in Ghana. Since then, he has thrived in Europe, playing for elite clubs with West Ham United being his current team. Kudus is a player to watch because of his ability to manage the midfield, his skill at dribbling, and his eye for goal. Mohammed Kudus is already playing for his country, and he has a bright future in the game of football.

18. Jessica Mshama

Jessica Mshama is a 25-year-old Tanzanian native who works as the CEO of J Sisters Company, a sister-owned company that operates a grocery, a mini-industry, and a beauty salon. The lack of a strong foundation for females鈥 economic independence in her Tanzanian village is what motivated her to make a change.

The idea that girls need assistance and support to be financially independent is a result of society鈥檚 treatment of girls as inferior and second-class citizens. She disagreed with such a worldview, and the disagreement inspired her to demonstrate to the rest of society that women can succeed economically and lead. Her current focus is raising the understanding of business, leadership, and social actions among young, women, and girls.

19. Thembi Kgatlana

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With her extraordinary talent, South African women football sensation Thembi Kgatlana has made a lasting impression on the world stage. Recognized for her explosive pace, top-notch dribbling technique, and excellent eye for the goal, she is a formidable opponent on the pitch. Kgatlana is a rising star from a nation where football is becoming increasingly popular.

She has received attention and awards for her outstanding accomplishments. Along the way, she has impressed elite clubs throughout the globe and won the CAF African Women鈥檚 Player of the Year award. Thembi Kgatlana is an example to aspiring female athletes everywhere because of her love for the sport and her tenacity.

20. Emmanuel Whajah

Emmanuel is a renowned German-Ghanian photographer and creative director. He founded the social media company Play The Game which is based in Germany. Whajah is passionate about telling stories and producing eye-catching material.

He has collaborated with a wide range of people, such as athletes, brands, and artists. His work has appeared in Forbes, GQ, and Vogue, among other magazines. Emmanuel was the recipient of the German High-Performance Award (HIPE Award) in 2021. Additionally, he received the Forbes 30 Under 30 Africa award.

21. Cheslin Denman

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Cheslin Denman is an entrepreneur and AI engineer from South Africa. He is the CEO and creator of Innoble, an AI startup that creates cutting-edge products for the African market. Denman has a strong commitment to applying AI to practical issues.

He has worked on several AI initiatives, such as creating a tool to assist farmers in increasing crop yields and a system to identify insects that carry malaria. Denman was listed as one of Forbes Africa鈥檚 30 Under 30 in 2021. The MIT Technology Review Innovators Under 35 Africa Award was also given to him.

22. Mutethia Mbaabu

When Facebook first debuted in 2008 and the world was in awe of this intriguing new platform that was going to revolutionize mass communication, Mutethia 鈥淭esh鈥 Mbaabu鈥檚 only idea about it was, 鈥淲ho constructed this platform and what is their background? And how may I carry out a comparable action?” Mbaabu read up on entrepreneur biographies and profiles, as well as news about the most successful firms worldwide.

It was in his quest to learn everything he could about technology and starting startups. He developed an idea for creating a Facebook-like platform that was focused on Africa.

This is how MarketForce came to be a B2B commerce platform that enables more than 200,000 local retailers in five African countries to find, order, and pay for inventory. It is Mbaabu鈥檚 innovation that enabled people to obtain financing and increase their revenue by reselling financial services to their local communities.

23. Alessandrio Bergman

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29-year-old Alessandrio Bergman is a definition of faith and believes in establishing what they are now. Born in the Soweto area of South Africa, Alessandrio worked hard to achieve all the success he currently enjoys.

He established one of South Africa鈥檚 most successful modeling agencies, SYNC Model Management. His facility has booked and worked on close to 1.3 million jobs up to date. Alessandrio鈥檚 major achievement is being the youngest colored and gay agency owner in South Africa.

24. Rema (Divine Ikubor)

Divine Ikubor, better known by his stage name Rema, is a Nigerian singer and composer who has made significant contributions to the Afrobeat and Afro-pop genres. Rema, who was born in Benin City, Nigeria, on 1st May 2000, rose to fame in the music business in 2019 after releasing his debut EP, 鈥淩ema,鈥 which included singles like 鈥淒umebi.鈥

His music combines elements of hip-hop, R&B, and African rhythms, and his unique, melodic voice has made him a rising sensation in the world of music. His captivating performances and young vitality have won him praise from critics and a devoted following in the music business.

25. Fireboy DML (Adedamola Oyinlola Adefolahan)

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Adedamola Adefolahan, a Nigerian singer-songwriter of Afrobeats, performs under the stage name Fireboy DML. Fireboy, who had his breakthrough in 2019 with the hit song 鈥淛ealous,鈥 has a distinct sound that combines R&B melodies, contemplative lyricism, and modern Afrobeats.

Fireboy, who is still in his early 20s, is a representative of the younger Nigerian musicians influencing the Afrobeats genre worldwide. His phenomenally successful album 鈥淎pollo鈥 in 2020 brought him praise from all around the world and partnerships with celebrities like Chris Brown. Fireboy DML is ready to introduce his unique style of Afro-fusion to the globe with his catchy beats, poignant lyrics, and biting social critique.

26. Nasty C (Nsikayesizwe David Junior Ngcobo)

Nasty C is one of the most well-known and prosperous rappers in Africa. He has received multiple honors for his work, including the BET Award for Best International Act: Africa and the South African Music Award for Best Hip Hop Album.

Nasty C is renowned for its distinct sound and style, which combines African music, trap, and trap soul components with classic hip hop. In addition, he is well-known for his insightful and provocative lyrics, many of which touch on social and political themes.

Nasty C is not just a successful musician but also a successful businessman. He owns Tall Racks Records, a record label, and Nasty C Apparel, a clothing line. He also represents several well-known companies as a brand ambassador, such as Adidas and Puma. He is among the most influential young Africans.

27. Blessing Joel Abeng

28-year-old Blessing Abeng is the founder of several businesses, including Einsteinette Limited, a branding and communications agency for entrepreneurs, and Startup Grind Lagos. As the CMO and co-founder of Disha, a tech firm that assists creatives in showcasing their works, she has contributed to the development of two successful platforms.

Flutterwave has since bought Disha. Currently serving as director of communications, Abeng is also a co-founder of Ingressive for Good (I4G), an initiative that develops young talent in Africa and the African Diaspora into techies.

28. Dricus 鈥楽till Knocks鈥 du Plessis

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Professional mixed martial artist Dricus 鈥淪till Knocks鈥 du Plessis, a native of South Africa, is presently a competitor in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Middleweight category. He was the former Middleweight and Welterweight Champion of the Extreme Fighting Championship (EFC).

One of the most entertaining competitors in the Middleweight class, Du Plessis is a rising star in the UFC. Favored by many, he is renowned for both his modest demeanor and his thrilling battles.

Throughout the world, young athletes look up to Du Plessis. He demonstrates that with perseverance, hard effort, and dedication, it is possible to realize your dreams.

29. Mhlengi Mluleki Ngcobo

Mhlengi Mluleki Ngcobo is the founder of CoffeeMM, a gourmet coffee roastery situated in Stellenbosch. He established the company in 2017.

His idea of venturing into the coffee business came when he was diagnosed with high blood pressure at a young age. It was believed that high caffeine consumption got him this disease and pushed him to come up with the idea of processing coffee without high caffeine levels. According to Ngcobo, he sources coffee beans from many parts of Africa, including Uganda, to make specialty coffees that are made locally.

30. Sheila Kwamboka

Sheila Kwamboka is a renowned Kenyan climate activist who has always fought for environmental justice. Even at the young age of 24, she has already created a stir by promoting local and worldwide climate action. Kwamboka encourages young people to demand climate responsibility and create sustainable green enterprises after being named one of Africa鈥檚 top 30 under 30 sustainability entrepreneurs in 2020. Her grass-roots leadership gives the environmental movement in Africa hope for the future.

 

The immense potential of Africa is demonstrated by this diverse collection of gifted young leaders. These under-30 change makers represent the future of Africa, whether they are battling poverty via entrepreneurship, fighting for justice and equality, innovating in science and technology, or producing ground-breaking art and culture. Their enthusiasm, ingenuity, and vision portend significant advancements and successes on the continent in the ensuing decades. Under the leadership of such rising talent, Africa has a bright future.

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