Shaping Africa’s Future. Meet the 2025 African Genius Finalists

After a rigorous judging process and months of anticipation, the African Genius Awards(AGA) proudly announces the 2025 finalists. This prestigious recognition, spearheaded by Plus 94 Research and adjudicated by an independent panel of experts, celebrates individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Africa’s self-determination, dignity, and exceptionalism.

Nominations for the 2025 cycle officially closed on 31 January, having received a remarkable number of submissions from across the continent and the diaspora. Submissions for the next cycle will reopen on 1 August, offering another opportunity to spotlight Africa’s finest problem-solvers and visionaries.

The process is highly competitive, with each nominee evaluated on criteria including problem-solving, global competitiveness, promotion of Africa, and promotion of self-acceptance and personal growth. Importantly, the genius status is only awarded to those whose performance is undoubtedly extraordinary.

To be considered, nominees must demonstrate exceptional talents or skills and a distinctive application of these abilities in addressing Africa-specific challenges, as well as alignment with the continent’s broader development needs. Nominations are open every year on 1 August and close on 31 January, and although only one nomination per individual is allowed, quality far outweighs quantity.

After a meticulous selection process, we are thrilled to announce the 2025 African Genius Award Finalists.

The 2025 AGA Finalists

• Professor Patricia Mawuli Porter – Ghana / USA
• Senator Crystal Asige – Kenya
• Professor Deji Akinwande – Nigeria / USA
• Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng – South Africa
• Beth Koigi – Kenya
• Lucky Mashudu Netshidzati – South Africa
• Margaret Hirsch – South Africa
• Maxwell Chikumbutso – Zimbabwe
• Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard – Gabon
• Daisy Mmabatho Molefhi – Botswana
• Professor Collen Masimirembwa – Zimbabwe
• Mutshidzi Mulondo – South Africa
• Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan – Liberia
• Lorna Rutto – Kenya
• Gisela Van Houcke – Democratic Republic of Congo
• Claude Grunitzky – Togo
• Dr. Chinasa T. Okolo – Nigeria / USA
• Nomso Kana – South Africa

Inspired by the extraordinary talent and determination found across the continent, Dr. Sifiso Falala, founder of the African Genius Awards, urges all Africans to keep striving for a greater future: “We have the land, the people, the weather, the culture—and yes, the genius—to make this continent everything we dream it to be.”

We congratulate these phenomenal individuals on their nomination and extend heartfelt gratitude to every person who was nominated. Your contributions are shaping a better, bolder, and more self-sufficient Africa. Thank you for the hard work, vision, and excellence you bring to our continent.

To the finalists: this recognition is a testament to your ingenuity, perseverance, and the transformative impact of your work. You are beacons of what it means to be an African genius.

The winners of the 2025 African Genius Awards will be announced on Saturday, 6 September, a date we invite all Africans to mark with pride. Let us come together to honour and celebrate those working tirelessly to make Africa great.

And remember: nominations open every year on 1 August and close on 31 January. If you know someone who exemplifies African genius, don’t wait—nominate them. The world needs to see what Africa can do.

Read more about the AGA: https://www.priorityperformance.co.za/africangenius/