The 2024 and 10th editions of Forbes Africa’s annual 30 Under 30 list feature a well-diverse pool of African talents. The list contains some of the youngest and brightest in various fields, including entertainment, education, sports, technology, healthcare, art, and other industries.
On the list, we have talented Nigerians like the founder of Veekee James, Ruth Erikan James, singer-songwriter Adedamola Oyinlola Adefolahan (Fireboy DML), Super Eagles footballer Victor Osimhen, track and field athlete Tobi Amusan, and founder and CEO of Mainlogix Technology, Josiah Akinloye, amongst others.
This year’s edition theme is “Passion, Purpose, and A Decade of the 30 Under 30 List,” celebrating the passion, creativity, and impact of Africans globally.
According to Forbes, Africa’s influence globally is on the rise, with 1.45 billion people across 54 countries driving its economies, largely propelled by its youthful demographic. The United Nations reports that 70% of sub-Saharan Africa is under 30, and by 2050, over a third of the world’s youth will reside in Africa. Experts predict that the continent’s wealth lies in its young, predominantly female population, making them prime investment prospects for the future.
Nigerians featured on the list
- Adedamola Oyinlola Adefolahan (Fireboy DML), 28, Nigeria
Singer-songwriter
Industry: Entertainment - Victor Osimhen, 25, Nigeria
Footballer and Striker for Super Eagles
Industry: Sport (Football) - Tobi Amusan, 26, Nigeria
Track and Field Athlete
Industry: Sport-Athletics - Ruth Erikan James, 29, Nigeria
Founder, Veekee James
Industry: Fashion - Josiah Akinloye, 29, Nigeria
Founder and CEO, Mainlogix Technology
Industry: Automation and Technology
“For a decade, we have unpacked the unmistakable potential and story of Africa’s youth. And Forbes Africa’s 10th 30 Under 30 list too has ambition and adrenaline packed into this special issue. These purpose-minded 20-something achievers are on the way up, overcoming the odds in their quest to become tomorrow’s titans and billionaires, making a huge difference in the countries, companies, and communities they serve,” Forbes Africa, Managing Editor, Renuka Methil.
To get featured on the list, applications need to be submitted via official channels. Part of the rigorous reporting and vetting process also involved going through social media profiles, police clearance reports, reference letters from financial institutions, and testimonials from colleagues, collaborators, business partners, and employees of the short-listed nominees.
Background checks were conducted on potential candidates, which included reviewing documentation to ensure there are no criminal records, troubling lawsuits or bankruptcy, and/or allegations of crime, misconduct, sexual harassment, abuse, or fraud.
