Seventeen visionary professionals are redefining the contours of African leadership through the Elevate Africa Fellowship, embarking on an unprecedented journey of discovery, innovation, and continental transformation. Selected from a pool of 3,447 applicants spanning 37 countries, these exceptional individuals represent a beacon of hope, strategically positioned to address the complex challenges facing the African continent, Apple’s Bite International Magazine reports.
The inaugural cohort, comprising 17 exceptional professionals from 13 African nations, began their transformative journey with a powerful welcome dinner featuring former Vice President Professor Yemi Osinbajo. During this intimate gathering, Professor Osinbajo shared profound insights into governance, emphasizing the critical importance of integrity and principled leadership.
On Monday, the fellows visited Sahara Group, a leading African energy conglomerate. The immersive experience provided unprecedented access to the company’s diverse investment portfolio spanning energy, power, technology, and data processing. Fellows were introduced to the Sahara Verse, a corporate philosophy driven by their “Making A Difference” (MAD) mantra.
The afternoon saw the cohort exploring the dynamic intersection of trade, fintech, and innovation at Providus Bank. By engaging with the bank’s collaborative ecosystem and witnessing their partnership with Paystack, a prominent fintech platform, fellows gained invaluable insights into financial innovation and strategic collaboration.
Vuyelwa Nyakaza, an economic strategist from South Africa, described the experience as overwhelming and profoundly impactful. “This journey is too incredible to process in one moment,” she shared. “I’ll need quiet reflection to fully absorb the wealth of knowledge and inspiration.”
CEO Daniel Ikuenobe outlined the comprehensive approach of the Elevate Africa Fellowship. Following the one-week experiential tour in Nigeria, the cohort will proceed to Mauritius for an intensive one-week academic classroom training focused on leadership development. The program is set to culminate in an exhibition in October, providing fellows with a platform to showcase their insights and potential transformative projects.
Ikuenobe articulated the program’s core philosophy: “…The African story did not begin with slavery. Before then we were warriors, and innovators. We want to reclaim that story of who we truly are. The Elevate Africa Fellowship is rooted in the belief that African leaders are best positioned to address the continent’s unique challenges through collaborative leadership, innovation, and community engagement.”
The 2025 Elevate Africa Fellows represent a diverse range of sectors and expertise, from climate advocacy and public health to technology and creative industries. Selected from over 3,447 applicants across 37 countries, these 17 professionals embody excellence, integrity, and a commitment to continental transformation.
This immersive tour is just the first phase of a comprehensive leadership development program. The fellows will engage in structured modules, executive coaching, and network-building opportunities, all designed to equip them with tools to drive meaningful change across Africa.
Elevate Africa Fellowship is a brainchild of Royal Majesties Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, the 21st Olu of Warri, and Olori Atuwatse III, Queen Consort of the Warri Kingdom. this initiative affirms a measured and intentional investment in Africa’s future through a carefully curated fellowship programme supported by a $1 million commitment.
As Olori Atuwatse III, Queen Consort of the Warri Kingdom and a key architect of the initiative, previously stated, “This wasn’t just work—it was a bet on the future of Africa.”
The Elevate Africa Fellowship continues to illuminate the path for a new generation of African leaders, promising a future shaped by innovation, collaboration, and transformative action.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
