Four entrepreneurs win $40,000 in continental award

Africa’s youth entrepreneurship initiative, Anzisha Prize, announced four entrepreneurs as the winners of the 2024 Entrepreneurship Education in Africa Awards on Thursday.

A statement from the organisers of the award revealed that the winners emerged at a gala event held in Johannesburg, South Africa.

The overall winners were Mathias Yabe, Nzinga Antonio, Sharon Alyorneku and Ivo Bonfirm.

According to the organisers, in addition to the prize money of $10,000 for each winner, they will also enjoy access to a comprehensive support package that includes coaching, mentorship, training, and networking opportunities.

Yabe from Ghana won the prize for job creation.

Through his business, Ako Fresh, Yabe offers farmers food preservation and cold storage services to help extend the shelf life of crops.

Angolan António won the award for outstanding system delivery for her business, Confeitaria Gailza, a small bakery that specialises in selling cakes and pastry products.

The award recognised her ability to successfully improve her operations by streamlining her manufacturing process, ensuring her goods get into the hands of consumers faster.

Alyorneku from Ghana was bestowed with the award for storytelling. Her business, Peng Street, is a fashion house selling trendy clothes that meet the fashion needs of university students across her country and on the continent.

It was recognised for changing the story of African fashion for young people and Bonfirm, the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Óptica Ipris Vision Centre in Angola, which manufactures lenses and frames for eyeglasses, won the award for revenue.

The Anzisha Prize, in partnership with the African Leadership Academy and Mastercard Foundation, identifies and recognises exceptional young entrepreneurs who are driving change and making a positive impact in their communities.

The Senior Director of Entrepreneurial Education Programmes at the Anzisha Prize, Dave Tait, said, “We are thrilled to announce the winners for this fellowship round. These young entrepreneurs are the future of Africa’s economic growth, development and job creation. Their dedication, creativity, and resilience are truly inspiring.”

The Anzisha Prize received a record number of applications for this fellowship period ending this year, with over 1000 young entrepreneurs from across the continent vying for entry into the prestigious programme.

“This is not about recognising individual achievements, but also about fostering a supportive ecosystem for young entrepreneurs in Africa.

“Through mentorship, coaching, training, and access to networks, we aim to empower these young leaders to scale their businesses and create sustainable change in their communities,” said the Managing Editor of the Anzisha Prize, Didi Onwu.