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The Anzisha Prize celebrated its 2024 Prize winners at the annual Entrepreneurship Education in Africa Awards (EEA) gala event in Johannesburg, South Africa. Four exceptional young entrepreneurs were recognized for their innovative businesses, collectively winning $40,000 in prize money.
The Anzisha Prize is Africa’s foremost youth entrepreneurship initiative.
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The winners—Mathias Yabe (Ghana), Nzinga Antonio (Angola), Sharon Alyorneku (Ghana), and Ivo Bonfirm (Angola)—each received $10,000. They also gain access to a comprehensive support package including coaching, mentorship, training, and networking opportunities.
Award Highlights
- Mathias Yabe won for job creation with Ako Fresh, a company that provides solar-powered cold storage for farmers, reducing post-harvest losses and generating employment.
- Nzinga António was honored for outstanding system delivery with Confeitaria Gailza, her bakery that streamlines operations to deliver fresh products to customers more efficiently.
- Sharon Alyorneku received recognition for storytelling with Peng Street, a fashion house redefining African youth fashion.
- Ivo Bonfirm was awarded for revenue growth with Óptica Ipris, a vision center producing eyeglasses in Angola.
Record number of applications
The Anzisha Prize held in collaboration with the African Leadership Academy and Mastercard Foundation. The Prize seeks to identify and nurture young African entrepreneurs who are making a significant impact in their communities.
This year saw a record number of over 1,000 applications from across the continent. Finalists were chosen through a rigorous evaluation process.
‘Young entrepreneurs represent future of Africa’
“These young entrepreneurs represent the future of Africa’s economic growth and development. Their innovative approaches and resilience are truly inspiring,” said Dave Tait, Senior Director of Entrepreneurial Education Programs at the Anzisha Prize.
The EEA Awards also provided a platform for networking and knowledge-sharing among stakeholders from various sectors, all committed to advancing youth entrepreneurship in Africa.
