“The glass ceiling will go away when women help other women break through that ceiling.” — Indra Nooyi, Former CEO & Chairperson of PepsiCo.
Africa’s financial future depends on leaders who shape industries, drive investments, and navigate an unpredictable economy.
Chief Finance Officers (CFOs) play a key role in sectors like banking, telecoms, energy, retail, and manufacturing, where their decisions influence entire markets.
Historically, CFO positions have been predominantly held by men. However, recent data shows gradual progress. In Q1-Q3 2024, 60 of 224 new CFO appointments were women, the highest number in the past five years.
In Africa, more women are stepping into these roles, securing billion-dollar deals, driving expansion, and setting the pace for the continent’s economic future.
Today, as we celebrate International Women’s Day, we highlight women, in no particular order, leading industries across West Africa, South Africa, and North Africa.
West Africa
Doris Uzoka-Anite – Minister of State for Finance, Nigeria
Doris Uzoka-Anite has redefined what it means to lead in Nigeria’s financial arena.
Starting her career as a medical doctor before transitioning to a banker, she swiftly emerged as a powerhouse in treasury management, taking charge of the Treasury Department in Zenith Bank in 2017 .
In that role, she not only honed strategies for effective liquidity management and risk mitigation but also set new benchmarks for operational excellence.
Her innovative approach helped streamline treasury functions, making a tangible impact on the bank’s financial stability and market responsiveness.
Her success at Zenith Bank opened the door to public service. In March 2021, Doris was appointed as the Commissioner for Finance and Coordinator of the Economy in Imo State, where she transformed state financial operations by optimizing public expenditure and bolstering fiscal discipline.
This critical role allowed her to implement reforms that revitalized the state’s economic framework, earning her widespread acclaim as a forward-thinking financial strategist.
Doris’s impressive track record in both the private and public sectors led to her appointment as Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment in August 2023.
In this capacity, she spearheaded initiatives designed to attract international investment and foster sustainable economic growth.
By November 2024, her deep expertise and visionary leadership saw her rise to the position of Minister of State for Finance, where she continues to influence policy decisions and shape Nigeria’s economic future.
Oluwatoyin Olaiya — Executive Director, Risk & Compliance, FCMB
Oluwatoyin Olaiya’s tenure as Executive Director, Risk & Compliance at First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has been marked by enhanced financial stability, regulatory compliance, and stronger risk management frameworks.
Appointed in 2020, she brought decades of experience in finance, risk, and compliance, ensuring FCMB remained resilient amid economic shifts.
Recognising the importance of risk governance, Olaiya led the implementation of advanced risk assessment models, enhancing FCMB’s ability to mitigate credit, operational, and market risks.
Under her leadership, the bank lowered its non-performing loan (NPL) ratio, reinforcing financial stability and investor confidence.
Her efforts extended to regulatory compliance, aligning FCMB with evolving financial regulations in Nigeria. By fostering a proactive compliance culture, she strengthened the bank’s governance and positioned it as a well-regulated financial institution.
Beyond internal operations, Olaiya has played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s financial landscape.
As Africa’s first female chartered accountant, she was a founding member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and later served as its second female president.
Before joining FCMB, Olaiya served as Acting Chief Risk Officer at Sterling Bank and held various positions at KPMG, Abacus Merchant Bank, and Magnum Trust Bank.
Her contributions extended to public service when she was appointed by President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2000 to lead the Education Trust Fund, where she oversaw the allocation of resources to educational institutions, improving access to quality education in Nigeria.
Through strategic risk management, financial oversight, and governance reforms, Oluwatoyin Olaiya has cemented her legacy as a driving force in Nigeria’s banking and financial sector.
Maryam Adefarati — CFO, Microsoft’s Africa Cluster
Maryam Adefarati has made significant contributions to Microsoft’s Africa Cluster as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), where she oversees the company’s financial strategy and operations across multiple African markets.
Her leadership has played a pivotal role in strengthening Microsoft’s position in Africa’s rapidly evolving tech ecosystem, particularly within cloud computing and enterprise solutions.
Under her leadership, Maryam has been instrumental in driving revenue growth through strategic financial planning and meticulous resource allocation.
She has steered the company through key digital transformation initiatives that have helped Microsoft maintain its dominance in the African tech landscape.
Her ability to adapt financial strategies to the unique challenges of the African market has been central to Microsoft’s success in the region.
Maryam has also contributed significantly to Microsoft’s efforts in supporting innovation and local talent development across Africa.
She has worked on financial strategies that support the company’s outreach programs, aimed at enhancing Africa’s technological infrastructure and fostering digital literacy.
In addition to her professional success, she has received accolades for her philanthropic efforts, particularly her work in supporting underprivileged communities in Nigeria through her foundation.
This commitment to giving back has earned her recognition as a leader in both the corporate and social sectors.
Maryam’s strategic vision continues to shape Microsoft’s success in Africa, making her a role model for future generations of leaders in both finance and technology.
Funke Ighodaro – CFO, Flour Mills of Nigeria
Funke Ighodaro brings over 22 years of executive-level experience to her role as Chief Financial Officer at Flour Mills of Nigeria.
Before joining the company, she held senior financial leadership positions at prominent firms, including Tiger Brands and Primedia in Johannesburg, and served as CFO designate at Barloworld Limited.
Since her appointment, Funke has played a key role in refining the company’s financial strategy and operations.
She’s focused on optimizing cost management and improving operational efficiency, helping Flour Mills of Nigeria navigate economic challenges while maintaining profitability.
Her work has been vital in ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and strengthening the company’s financial governance.
Funke’s leadership has been crucial during periods of transformation and growth, enabling Flour Mills of Nigeria to expand while staying financially stable.
Her decisions around financial planning and risk management continue to support the company’s success in a competitive market.
In addition, Funke serves as an independent non-executive director and chairs the audit and risk committees at The SPAR Group Ltd, further showcasing her leadership in corporate governance.
Grace Darkwa Buaka — Partner & Investment Director, Oasis Capital Ghana
Grace Darkwa Buaka is a seasoned investment professional at Oasis Capital Ghana, where she serves as Partner and Investment Director.
With over a decade of experience in asset management, corporate development, and investment advisory, Buaka has significantly influenced private equity in West Africa.
Under her leadership, Oasis Capital Ghana has expanded its portfolio to include investments that drive innovation and entrepreneurship.
A notable example is the firm’s 2021 investment in the Joyce Ababio College of Creative Design (JACCD). This funding facilitated the expansion of the institution’s facilities and programs, enhancing creative education in Ghana and empowering emerging designers and entrepreneurs.
Buaka has been a vocal advocate for investing in the creative economy, recognizing its potential to diversify the economy and create jobs.
Beyond the creative sector, Buaka has championed investments that provide SMEs with both financial backing and strategic support, particularly in Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire.
By ensuring businesses receive not just funding but also the support they need to grow sustainably, she has reinforced Oasis Capital Ghana’s position as a key player in the region’s investment landscape.
In July 2024, Oasis Capital Ghana successfully closed its first round of funding for the Oasis Africa Fund II (OAF II), raising US$33.3 million towards its US$100 million target.
OAF II focuses on SMEs in critical sectors that contribute to the development of a strong middle class, such as education, healthcare, finance, housing, hospitality, and food services.
The fund’s focus on Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire reflects Buaka’s commitment to regional economic growth and her strategic vision for West Africa’s future.
Through her leadership, Grace Darkwa Buaka continues to play an integral role in shaping the future of private equity in West Africa, ensuring that both financial returns and long-term economic impact remain at the heart of Oasis Capital Ghana’s investments.
Felicity Osafo-Sampong — CRO, Stanbic Bank Ghana
Felicity Osafo-Sampong serves as the Chief Risk Officer (CRO) at Stanbic Bank Ghana, a subsidiary of the Standard Bank Group.
She has substantial experience in risk management within the banking sector, having held leadership positions in Tanzania in 2014 and South Africa in 2017, where she led initiatives in acquisition finance, project finance, syndications, and trade-structured loans.
At Stanbic Bank Ghana, she oversees various aspects of risk management, including credit, market, operational risk, and compliance.
Her leadership has been instrumental in enhancing the bank’s risk management strategies, ensuring regulatory compliance, and maintaining financial stability.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Felicity is committed to corporate social responsibility. She led the bank’s Risk Department in donating desks, stationery, and other essential items to the Graceland Needy Childcare Shelter in Bawjiase, Central Region, and has pledged ongoing support to the facility.
Additionally, she spearheaded a tree-planting exercise at the Chipa Forest Reserve in Agomeda, Greater Accra, as part of the bank’s environmental sustainability initiatives, contributing to Ghana’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2030.
Shirley-Ann Awuletey-Williams — CRO, Fidelity Bank Ghana
Shirley-Ann Awuletey-Williams serves as the Chief Risk Officer (CRO) at Fidelity Bank Ghana, one of the leading banks in the country.
She brings a wealth of experience in the banking sector, particularly in risk management and governance.
Shirley-Ann’s journey in financial services began with her academic foundation in business administration and finance.
Over the years, she honed her expertise in risk management and held various key positions in the banking sector, eventually leading to her appointment as CRO at Fidelity Bank.
At Fidelity Bank, Shirley-Ann oversees the management of risks across various dimensions, including credit, operational, market, and regulatory risks.
Her role involves designing and implementing effective risk management policies that align with the bank’s strategic goals.
She is responsible for ensuring that the bank remains compliant with all financial regulations while mitigating potential risks that could threaten its stability.
Under Shirley-Ann’s leadership, Fidelity Bank has successfully navigated numerous challenges in the ever-changing financial landscape.
Her focus on strengthening risk management frameworks has contributed significantly to the bank’s resilience and overall growth.
She is widely regarded for her ability to balance risk and reward, enabling the bank to pursue strategic objectives with confidence while safeguarding its assets.
Shirley-Ann’s leadership continues to play a crucial role in Fidelity Bank’s success in Ghana’s competitive banking industry.
East Africa
Risper Alaro – Group Finance Director, Centum Investments
Risper Alaro has spent years shaping Centum Investments into one of Kenya’s most dynamic investment firms.
As Group Finance Director since March 2022, she has helped the company navigate a complex financial landscape, ensuring steady growth across real estate, energy, and agriculture.
Her journey with Centum spans nearly two decades, though she took a break in 2018 before returning to lead its finance team.
Before that, she held key roles, including Director of Finance and Operations and Managing Director of Centum Business Solutions Limited, where she streamlined financial processes and strengthened operations.
One of her biggest achievements has been reducing the company’s long-term debt. By March 2022, Centum had repaid KES 13 billion, cutting its debt from KES 16 billion in 2019 to just KES 3 billion.
This move, which achieved 81% of Centum’s debt reduction target, strengthened its ability to withstand economic challenges.
At the same time, Centum maintained a strong asset base, reaching 86% of its Net Asset Value (NAV) target, with KES 41 billion recorded as of March 31, 2022.
Alaro also ensured steady shareholder returns, between 2020 and 2022, Centum paid out KES 1.4 billion in dividends, meeting 87% of its payout goal. This reinforced investor confidence and showed the company’s financial strength.
Beyond balance sheets, Alaro has helped Centum expand in real estate, energy, and agriculture, balancing risks while seizing profitable opportunities.
Under her financial leadership, Centum has pushed forward major projects like the Vipingo development, a massive 10,254-acre real estate venture on Kenya’s coast.
This was designed to host homes, businesses, and industries with essential infrastructure like a desalination plant and power substation.
In the energy sector, she has overseen Centum’s investment in Akiira Geothermal, a project set to add 140MW of clean power to Kenya’s grid.
With over 20 years at Centum, she has also built a high-performance work culture, inspiring young professionals in finance.
Through her leadership, Centum remains a major force in Africa’s investment space, proving that with the right financial strategy, businesses can thrive even in uncertain times.
Orge Godana – Chief Financial Officer, Java House Africa
Orge Godana is a seasoned finance leader driving Java House Africa’s strategic growth and financial sustainability.
As the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Java House Africa, she plays a crucial role in overseeing the company’s financial operations across multiple markets.
Since joining in December 2021, she has been instrumental in strengthening financial structures, ensuring operational efficiency, and positioning the company for long-term success.
Before her tenure at Java House, Orge led the internal audit function at KFC East Africa, where she was responsible for establishing and enhancing financial controls.
Her expertise in risk management and governance helped solidify the franchise’s financial integrity in a competitive industry.
At Java House, she has been at the forefront of major strategic initiatives, including plans for a potential initial public offering (IPO). She has emphasized the company’s readiness for the public markets, highlighting the opportunities that a listing could bring.
Under her financial leadership, Java House has also expanded its market presence through key partnerships, such as its collaboration with TotalEnergies to launch Java House On-the-Go outlets, catering to mobile consumers.
Orge’s leadership philosophy revolves around decisiveness and continuous learning. She believes that taking action, even if mistakes are made, is more valuable than stagnation.
This mindset has shaped her approach to financial strategy and decision-making, allowing Java House to navigate industry shifts with confidence.
Beyond her corporate success, she draws inspiration from business leaders like Indra Nooyi, advocating for a balanced approach to professional and personal growth.
Her strategic vision continues to reinforce Java House Africa’s reputation as a dominant force in the East African hospitality industry.
Agnes N. Majanya – Former CFO, dfcu Bank
Agnes Namyalo Mayanja has been a driving force in Uganda’s banking sector, shaping financial risk management and strategic growth at KCB Bank Uganda since her appointment as Executive Director in March 2021.
Her leadership has strengthened risk frameworks, ensured regulatory compliance, and expanded the bank’s institutional banking portfolio, positioning KCB as a trusted financial partner for businesses.
Before joining KCB, she built an extensive career at dfcu Bank, where she spent over two decades refining credit and compliance structures.
Rising to Chief Risk Officer, she played a critical role in enhancing the bank’s financial stability, mitigating exposure to non-performing assets, and reinforcing governance frameworks.
At KCB, she has driven operational efficiency, risk mitigation, and sustainable lending practices, ensuring that the bank balances growth with financial discipline.
Her strategic initiatives have not only improved service delivery but also strengthened KCB’s resilience in a rapidly evolving economic landscape.
A staunch advocate for corporate governance, Agnes continues to shape policies that promote stability and long-term value creation in Uganda’s financial sector.
Alice Wathika – CFO, Lake Turkana Wind Power
Alice Wathika has spent over two decades shaping financial strategies across diverse industries, from manufacturing to energy.
Before becoming the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Lake Turkana Wind Power (LTWP), she had already established herself as a leader in managing high-value projects across East and West Africa.
Her career is defined by her deep understanding of financial operations, risk management, and strategic planning.
One of her standout achievements was overseeing the launch of LTWP, a 310MW wind energy production project, making it Africa’s largest wind farm.
This success is a testament to her ability to execute large-scale renewable energy initiatives with precision.
Since stepping into her role at LTWP, Alice has played a key role in ensuring the financial stability of the company, which now contributes up to 20% of Kenya’s electricity supply.
Under her leadership, LTWP has reinforced Kenya’s position as a leader in renewable energy within Africa.
Alice’s ability to drive efficiency, foster long-term financial sustainability, and navigate complex financial landscapes continues to shape the company’s future in the clean energy sector.
Hope Lorna Nakhayenze — CFO, dfcu Bank
Hope Lorna Nakhayenze has made a significant impact in Uganda’s financial sector through her leadership in risk management and governance.
She has held several key roles, and was appointed as Chief Risk Officer of dfcu Bank where she plays a pivotal role in strengthening the bank’s risk frameworks.
Her leadership extended to launching the GROW initiative, a program aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs in Eastern Uganda with business training and financial resources, empowering them to scale their businesses and contribute to the local economy.
Prior to her time at dfcu Bank, Hope gained valuable experience at Ecobank Uganda, where she served as Head of Risk & Internal Control and implemented robust risk management strategies that enhanced the bank’s financial stability.
She also held the role of Head of Risk at I&M Bank Uganda, where she worked to strengthen the bank’s governance framework and mitigate financial risks.
Hope’s leadership is characterized by her ability to inspire growth, drive operational efficiency, and foster financial integrity.
Her strategic vision continues to influence the financial sector in Uganda, as she remains committed to empowering businesses and communities across the country.
South Africa
Christine Ramon – Former CFO & Interim CEO, AngloGold Ashanti
Mining is a tough industry, and finance within it is even tougher but Christine Ramon thrived in both.
During her time as CFO (2014–2021) and Interim CEO (2020), she succeeded in playing a vital role in strengthening AngloGold Ashanti’s financial position
In an industry known for price fluctuations and economic uncertainty, her strategic decisions helped the company remain stable and profitable.
One of her biggest achievements was cutting AngloGold Ashanti’s debt. By 2020, the company had reduced its net debt to $597 million, a 62% drop from $1.57 billion in 2017.
This move strengthened its financial health and allowed reinvestment in mining projects across Africa, Australia, and the Americas.
She also focused on capital discipline, leading the company to achieve $1 billion in free cash flow in 2020, the highest in nearly a decade.
These financial gains increased shareholder returns and supported sustainable mining projects, reinforcing AngloGold Ashanti’s status as a global leader.
Beyond finances, Ramon improved operational efficiency and cut costs while boosting production output. She also prioritised sustainability and ethical mining practices, ensuring the company’s long-term success.
Her leadership was widely recognised, and in 2018, she was named South Africa’s CFO of the Year. Her ability to tackle financial challenges while making bold, strategic moves has cemented her as one of Africa’s top financial leaders.
In February 2022, Ramon announced her early retirement from AngloGold Ashanti, effective at the end of June 2022, to dedicate more time to her family following the loss of her husband to COVID-19.
Mpolaheng Mohlopi — CFO, Lanseria International Airport
Mpolaheng Mohlopi’s leadership as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Lanseria International Airport has been marked by notable achievements that have significantly impacted the airport’s financial and operational landscape.
Appointed in 2018, Mohlopi took charge at a time when the aviation industry was recovering from the challenges posed by the pandemic.
Her strategic insights and financial acumen played a pivotal role in stabilizing the airport’s finances, optimizing operational costs, and implementing key risk management strategies.
Under her guidance, Lanseria has navigated the complexities of the aviation sector, maintaining a strong financial footing while focusing on long-term sustainability and growth.
In recognition of her outstanding leadership, Mohlopi was nominated for the prestigious CFO of the Year award at the 2022 CFO Awards, often referred to as the “Oscars for South African finance professionals.”
Additionally, she was honored with the Young CFO of the Year award in 2022, highlighting her exceptional contributions to the South African aviation industry.
This award not only celebrated her individual accomplishments but also highlighted her dedication to driving transformation within the South African aviation sector.
Her ability to combine sound financial management with a clear strategic vision has positioned her as a role model for emerging female leaders in finance.
Her approach to leadership goes beyond financial strategy. Mohlopi is also a strong advocate for mentorship and empowering other women in the workplace.
She continues to inspire by demonstrating that effective leadership, paired with resilience and a forward-thinking approach, can drive significant change in even the most challenging environments.
Bongi Ngoma — Former CFO of Auditor-General South Africa
Bongi Ngoma’s tenure as a leader in the public sector has been marked by outstanding achievements that have positioned her as one of South Africa’s most influential financial experts.
Serving as the national head of audit at the Auditor-General of South Africa, Ngoma has driven significant changes in public sector financial management, ensuring that government funds are utilized effectively and efficiently.
Her leadership played a crucial role in enhancing the transparency and accountability of South Africa’s public finances, earning her recognition in the field of financial management.
Ngoma was awarded the prestigious CFO of the Year Award in 2021, becoming the first public sector CFO to receive this honor.
This milestone reflected not only her technical expertise but also her ability to influence change within the public sector.
Ngoma’s commitment to public service and financial excellence was further recognized with the Public Sector CFO of the Year Award and the Transformation & Empowerment Award.
Her work has been pivotal in modernizing auditing processes and promoting ethical financial practices within government institutions.
Beyond her professional achievements, Ngoma is deeply committed to driving transformation and empowerment within South Africa’s financial sector.
Her efforts to create more inclusive opportunities for women in leadership roles have made her a role model for aspiring financial leaders.
Through her guidance, she continues to inspire a new generation of women in finance, demonstrating that effective leadership in the public sector can drive both change and progress.
Aneshree Naidoo — CFO, Webber Wentzel
Aneshree Naidoo has demonstrated exceptional leadership in her role as CFO at Webber Wentzel, and her achievements can be measured through both her financial impact and her contributions to the firm’s strategic growth.
Under Naidoo’s leadership, Webber Wentzel saw significant financial improvements, including the optimization of the firm’s cost structure and the successful implementation of strategic investments that bolstered its market position.
Her work contributed to enhancing the firm’s profitability and operational efficiency, driving sustainable growth.
One of Naidoo’s key accomplishments was streamlining the firm’s financial processes, leading to a notable reduction in operational expenses.
This improvement was a result of her strategic oversight in financial planning and her ability to identify cost-saving opportunities across the organization.
Her expertise in financial risk management also led to Webber Wentzel maintaining strong financial stability through periods of market uncertainty.
She has played a pivotal role in ensuring the firm’s financial resilience, even as it navigated the challenges of a competitive legal industry.
In terms of industry recognition, Naidoo’s accomplishments were highlighted when she received accolades for her leadership, including being named one of South Africa’s top young CFOs.
Her work is frequently cited as a model for finance professionals seeking to combine financial expertise with innovation and leadership in a complex industry.
Through her strategic decisions and her emphasis on sustainable financial practices, Naidoo has left a measurable mark on Webber Wentzel’s success.
North Africa
Miriem Bensalah Chaqroun – Vice-chairwoman and Managing Director of Morocco’s leading beverage company
Miriem Bensalah Chaqroun is a key figure in Morocco’s business world. As Vice-Chairwoman and Managing Director of Eaux Minérales d’Oulmès, she has helped the company grow and lead in the Moroccan beverage market.
Under her leadership, the company has focused on sustainability and modern business practices.
Her influence reaches beyond Morocco. Miriem serves on the Board of Directors of the Renault Group and the International Advisory Board of IE University in Madrid.
She is also a board member at Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane, supporting education and innovation.
Miriem’s expertise was recognized when the UN Secretary-General appointed her to the Global Investors for Sustainable Development (GISD) Alliance.
This role highlights her global influence in driving sustainable development and her leadership in business.
She is currently ranked 21st in Forbes Middle East’s ranking of the most influential business women.
Rasha El-Azhary – Chief Financial Officer, Vodafone Egypt
Rasha El-Azhary has played a pivotal role in shaping Vodafone Egypt’s financial strategy and growth.
With over 20 years of experience in finance and strategic planning, she has been at the forefront of key financial decisions since becoming the company’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in 2017.
Her journey with Vodafone started in 2003, where she held senior leadership roles across different markets, including serving as Consumer Business Unit Director and Strategy Director at Vodafone Qatar.
These positions equipped her with the expertise to drive business expansion and financial sustainability in the telecom industry.
As CFO, she has led critical financial initiatives, streamlined cost structures, and ensured Vodafone Egypt’s strong financial performance. Her strategic oversight has helped the company navigate market challenges while maintaining a competitive edge.
A defining moment of her leadership came in November 2024, when Vodafone Egypt, under her financial guidance, secured $609 million in strategic partnership agreements with Telecom Egypt.
These agreements were aimed at expanding network infrastructure and accelerating the adoption of 5G technology, reinforcing Vodafone’s position as a leader in Egypt’s telecommunications space.
Her impact has been widely recognized. In 2025, Forbes Middle East ranked her 79th on its list of “100 Most Powerful Businesswomen”, a testament to her influence and success in the corporate world.
Through her tenure, she has strengthened Vodafone Egypt’s financial resilience, driven innovation in telecom finance, and positioned the company for sustainable growth in a rapidly evolving industry.
Najwa El Iraki — Founder & Managing Partner of AfricaDev Consulting
Najwa El Iraki’s journey in Africa’s business and financial sectors has been nothing short of extraordinary.
From her early days as a chartered accountant to becoming a prominent figure in the continent’s business landscape, Najwa has led with both vision and determination, paving the way for future generations of women in leadership.
As the Founder and Managing Partner of AfricaDev Consulting, Najwa created a consultancy firm dedicated to helping businesses navigate the complexities of the African market, with a particular focus on the insurance sector.
Her expertise has also extended to Lloyd’s of London, where she serves as the General Representative for North and West Africa, championing the expansion of one of the world’s largest insurance markets in the region.
But her impact doesn’t stop there. Najwa’s leadership took another leap when she joined Opportunity Network as Managing Director for North and West Africa.
In this role, she worked tirelessly to connect CEOs and entrepreneurs across the globe, bridging the gap between Africa’s burgeoning markets and the international business community.
Najwa’s work has earned her recognition on numerous prestigious platforms. In 2016, she was named one of the “60 Most Influential Women of Africa” by New African Woman Magazine, and she was also honoured with the “Financial Advisor North Africa of the Year” award by Corporate Vision Magazine.
Her leadership was further highlighted when she earned a spot in the Choiseul 100 Africa list, which ranks Africa’s top business leaders under 40.
And in 2020, she was awarded “Business Woman of the Year Africa” by the Global Banking & Finance Awards, solidifying her position as one of Africa’s most influential female leaders.
Throughout her career, Najwa has been a powerful advocate for women’s leadership.
Through her work, she continues to inspire countless others to take bold steps in business and beyond, leaving an indelible mark on Africa’s future.