From fintech and health innovation to privacy governance and digital wellness, these founders and leaders are building the infrastructure, platforms, and policy shaping Africa’s digital economy. They are not simply participating in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. They are defining it.
Zolilie Tibane, IT Professional & Tech Advocate, South Africa
Zolilie Tibane’s journey into tech began in childhood after earning the nickname “the tech girl” for fixing a family laptop. She went on to complete a BSc in Computer Science and co-founded an edtech startup before moving into corporate IT to refine her leadership skills. Alongside her professional work, she volunteers in youth development initiatives and is deeply committed to increasing access for girls in tech. For Zolilie, technology is a vehicle for representation, opportunity, and lasting social impact.
Sasha-Leigh Moodley, Privacy Manager & Certified Privacy Technologist, South Africa
Originally trained in law, Sasha-Leigh Moodley transitioned into technology, specialising in privacy, compliance, and regulatory risk. She now oversees data protection frameworks across multiple African jurisdictions, embedding Privacy by Design into product and technology systems. A strong advocate for women in tech, she mentors and champions digital literacy, believing that tech fluency is essential across every industr
Derusha Naidoo, Founder of Boardroom App, South Africa
After eight years in financial services at Allan Gray, Derusha Naidoo pursued an MBA at the University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business, where she co-founded Boardroom App, a dating platform built for professionals. She later contributed to fintech innovation within Momentum Metropolitan Holdings and now consults in the technology division at Absa Group, translating complex systems into strategic insight. Her career reflects the power of non-linear thinking in tech leadership
Nokuthula Mgwebile Founder of Ask Thuli AI, South Africa
Nokuthula Mgwebile is the founder of Ask Thuli AI, a wellness focused artificial intelligence platform offering culturally relevant mental health and personal development support. By merging AI with holistic wellbeing, she is building accessible digital tools designed to centre African users in conversations about healing, growth, and self-awareness.
Iyinoluwa Aboyeji Co-Founder, Flutterwave & Andela, Nigeria
Iyinoluwa Aboyeji has helped build two of Africa’s most influential startups. Flutterwave powers seamless cross- border payments, while Andela connects African software engineers with global employers. His work strengthened Africa’s digital commerce infrastructure and reshaped perceptions of African tech talent worldwide.
Rebecca Enonchong Founder & CEO, AppsTech, Cameroon
Rebecca Enonchong leads a global enterprise software company while actively advocating for startup friendly regulation and digital policy reform across Africa. Her influence extends beyond business, shaping the broader ecosystem that enables innovation to thrive.
Olugbenga Agboola Co-Founder & CEO, Flutterwave, Nigeria
Olugbenga “GB” Agboola leads one of Africa’s most valuable fintech companies. Under his leadership, Flutterwave’s API driven infrastructure enables businesses to transact globally, helping unlock trade and investment across the continent.
Shola Akinlade Co-Founder & CEO, Paystack, Nigeria
Shola Akinlade co-founded Paystack, simplifying digital payments for African merchants before its landmark acquisition by Stripe. The deal signalled global confidence in Africa’s startup ecosystem and accelerated e-commerce growth across the region.
Juliana Rotich Co-Founder, Ushahidi & Founder, BRCK, Kenya
Juliana Rotich co-founded Ushahidi, a civic technology platform that transformed crisis mapping and electoral transparency. She later founded BRCK to address connectivity gaps across emerging markets, demonstrating how African innovation can strengthen democracy and digital access.
Tayo Oviosu Founder & CEO, Paga, Nigeria
Tayo Oviosu founded Paga to expand financial access for millions of Nigerians. By enabling mobile money services beyond traditional banking systems, he has helped close the financial inclusion gap and power everyday digital transactions.
Victoria Weber, Digital Strategist & Media Entrepreneur, South Africa / United States
Now based in Cape Town, Victoria Weber is a global branding strategist who helps businesses design scalable digital strategies and optimise online growth. Through consulting, public speaking, and her podcast platform, she explores how technology, media, and innovation can drive both business expansion and personal freedom.
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