Open call: Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 class of 2024

Now in its 10th year, the list is an annual selection of 30 of the continent’s brightest achievers under the age of 30 across various fields including creative arts, business, technology, sport and health. 

“It has been 10 years of showcasing tomorrow’s titans and billionaires,” Forbes Africa managing editor Renuka Methil said. “This list continues to draw great interest from our readers, young and old. And on a continent with the world’s youngest population, it’s more pertinent than ever to unravel these young movers and shakers who will be tomorrow’s global newsmakers.” 

Past honourees of the Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 list include musicians Tems, Mr Eazi, Davido, Wizkid, Sho Madjozi, Nasty C, Kabza De Small and Burna Boy, among others.

Eligibility

• Nominees must be 29 or younger on 30 March and have never appeared on an Under 30 list before.
• The company/business/brand must be profit-generating 
• Social impact is a very important part of Africa’s Under 30 list. 
• All applications must be in English (this will include the nomination process, financial documents etc).
• Nominees cannot choose more than two categories. 
• Candidates entering with a business must note that: 
  • Nominees must reside in, or be from or have their business/brand based in Africa.
  • The more innovative the business the better (as it contributes to Africa’s growth story!)
  • Business(es) should be two years or older (applicants must ensure to have their audited financial documents for at least two years as well as their company’s registration documents. Should they make the second stage, this will be required).
• The company must be profit-generating.
• Those applying in the creative or health/science and/or sport must:
  • Have a proven track record of two or more years. 
  • Forbes Africa will need an indicator, in the form of documentation, of substantial earnings and/or robust net worth.

Judging process

The judging process will take place in four stages:

• The first stage will be the evaluation of candidates' motivation. In the event of no communication from Forbes Africa within a specified period, applicants should consider their nomination unsuccessful.
• The second stage necessitates potential candidates to submit additional documentation for further assessment.
• In the third stage, a comprehensive analysis of financials, revenue models, and overall credibility will be conducted. Thorough research will delve into the backgrounds of both individuals and their company/team, checking for any criminal records, lawsuits, bankruptcies, allegations of crime, instances of bad behaviour, sexual harassment/abuse, or fraud.
• The final stage involves an expert panel of judges assessing the strongest candidates, narrowing them down to the final 30. The editorial and research team then makes the ultimate selection, taking into account judges' scoring and remarks while ensuring diversity across company type, gender, background, etc.

Nominations can be made here.

View the original call here.