CAPE TOWN, South Africa, November 3, /APO Group: The Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) celebrated African women’s excellence at the 2025 AWIEF Awards, held in Cape Town, South Africa.
The glittering gala, considered by organisers to be a spectacular event honoring women entrepreneurs and leaders driving innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth across the continent, where 8 exceptional winners were announced, each representing the transformative power heralded by women-led initiatives in Africa.
Since its inception in 2016, the AWIEF Awards have been a beacon of recognition and inspiration for women in business and leadership. Beyond celebrating success, the awards aim to empower the next generation of innovators and changemakers, fostering a vibrant pan-African community of collaboration and impact.
This year’s winners and finalists hailed from across Africa, showcasing diverse industries including technology, agriculture, energy, creative arts, and social entrepreneurship — united by a shared vision of advancing Africa’s growth through innovation.
The winners are: Norah Kimathi – Zerobionic, Kenya (Young Entrepreneur Award); Mampho Sotshongaye – Golden Rewards 1981, South Africa (Empowerment Award); Nidal Tafah – MIRRIAH, Morocco (Energy Entrepreneur Award); Soraya da Piedade – Soraya da Piedade LDA, Angola (Creative Industry Award); Farana Boodhram – MiDesk Global, South Africa (Social Entrepreneur Award); Linda Davis – Giraffe Bioenergy, Kenya (Agri Entrepreneur Award-Sponsored by OCP Africa); Maryanne Gichanga – AgriTech Analytics, Kenya (Tech Entrepreneur Award); Audrey Joe-Ezigbo – CEO, Falcon Corporation, Nigeria (Lifetime Achievement Award).
Founder of Soraya da Piedade LDA and winner of the Creative Industry Award, Soraya da Piedade, the recognition marks a defining moment in her journey as a designer and entrepreneur. “I’m deeply honoured and grateful to AWIEF for creating platforms like this, where we celebrate women’s creativity and leadership,” said Soraya. “This award reminds me that when we create from a place of passion and purpose, we not only build brands but also inspire others to dream bigger.”
Founder and CEO of Giraffe Bioenergy and winner of the Agri Entrepreneur Award, Linda Davis, hailing from Kenya, described the moment as “surreal.” “It’s my first time winning an award like this, and I am beyond excited,” said Davis. “AWIEF has given women like me a powerful space to share our work, connect with others, and be recognized for driving change in our communities. This win belongs to every woman farmer and entrepreneur working to build a sustainable Africa.”
