Class of 2025: Ekow Barnes, Rasheedat Ajibade, Fola David, Taaooma and more win big at The Future Awards Africa

On Saturday, November 8, 2025, Africa’s most promising young talents gathered at Landmark Event Centre, Lagos, for the 19th edition of The Future Awards Africa. It was an unforgettable night as the boldest and brightest defining the future of Africa were honoured for their contributions across diverse sectors.

Themed “Threads of Legacy”, it was a glamorous and star-studded affair from the red carpet to the stage. This year’s event was brilliantly co-hosted by the charismatic duo of Nollywood actor Mike Afolarin and media personality Azeezah Hashim, the first-ever East African host, who dazzled the audience with their effortless wit, charm, and on-stage chemistry. Together, they guided attendees through a night of celebration and reflection, spotlighting the stories and achievements of those shaping Africa’s next chapter.

Reflecting on this year’s edition, Ayodeji Razaq, the Executive Director of The Future Awards Africa, said, “We are proud to honour the exceptional young people adding the threads to our collective legacy. Tonight’s winners have proven with their powerful work and impact that legacy is not built in a single moment but through every decision we make.  After tonight, we will keep weaving our collective tapestry to bring Africa into the glorious future we all deserve.”

Here is a rundown of the incredible winners;

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Creativity and Innovation

Taiwo Abisoye Joel (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Photography

Amazing Klef (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Education

John Onuigbo (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Journalism

Madina Dahiru Maishanu (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Content Creation

Mariam Apaokagi (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Health and Wellness

Funmilola Aderemi (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Community Action

Hammed Kayode Alabi (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Arts

Ayobola Kekere-Ekun (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Literature

Adedayo Agarau (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Activism and Advocacy

Solomon Ayodele (Boys Quarters Africa) (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Fashion

Richmond Barnes (Will and Barnes Group) (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Law

Ogenetega Adedipe (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Film

Oluwadamilola Apampa (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Professional Service

Bode Roberts (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Entrepreneurship

Tomike Adeoye (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Technology

Kelvin Umechukwu (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Performing Arts

Big Bimi (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Intrapreneurship

Solomon Ayodele (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for On Air Personality

Azeezah Hashim (Kenya) (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Agriculture

Adetiloye Aiyeola (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Governance

Daniel Otabor (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Music

Okeowo Oladotun Alani (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Sports

Rasheedat Ajibade (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Acting

Adebowale Adedayo (Winner)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Service to Young People

Ali Baba (Honorary)

The Future Awards Africa Prize for Young Person of The Year

Fola David (Winner)