Top 10 Inspiring Africans

Top 10 Inspiring Africans

Do you want to know about Africa’s top ten inspirational people? If yes, you have landed on the right page. Here is what you need to know!


Top Inspiring Africans

Inspiration is vital for people from all walks of life to achieve their goals and strive for greatness Africans have been the source of tremendous inspiration, innovation, and leadership throughout history. It awakens new possibilities and allows people to surpass their limitations and make their dreams come true.

Immensely inspiring African figures have given the world a glimpse into their lives, and this has inspired many to dream bigger and push themselves further. From heads of state to entrepreneurs, activists, and even athletes, all raised by the land of Africa. Today’s article will list the top ten inspiring Africans and how they made a fortune. Read on!

1. Abiy Ahmed

Abiy Ahamed made substantial efforts to release over 60,000 political prisoners, initiate reforms in the country’s economic system, and end decades of conflict with neighbouring Eritrea. In addition, Ahmed also opened up the economy and created a more democratic system by allowing opposition parties to operate freely.

Ahmed brought peace to the region, prevented ethnic violence, and signed a multi-million dollar deal to establish infrastructure in the country. Therefore, Abiy Ahamed is the most inspiring leader in Ethiopia. He has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, becoming the first Ethiopian and African to receive the award

2. Kumi Naidoo

Kumi Naidoo is an inspiring environmental and social justice advocate. He has dedicated his life to fighting poverty, human rights violations, and climate change. Naidoo campaigns for responsible business practices and works to build a more equitable, sustainable, and just world.

Kumi Naidoo was appointed as the secretary general of Amnesty International. Naidoo was an activist in the young during the South African apartheid and the first leader of Greenpeace. He is also the founding Executive Director of the Africa Earth Observatory Network and serves as Chair of Climate Justice Now. Naidoo is an inspiration for young people to promote peace and harmony and prevent human rights abuses and environmental crimes.

3. Enoch Adeboye

Enoch Adeboye is one of the highest-profile pastors in Nigeria who made substantial efforts to bring religious peace to the country. He is the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the most influential churches in Nigeria. Adeboye has become an inspiration not only to his own flock but also to millions of people from all around the world who have heard his words and followed his teachings.

Adeboye has been a major proponent of education, urging his followers to pursue education and achieve success. His work has also been influential in promoting peace, reducing poverty, and fighting against corruption in the country. He is also a strong advocate for women’s rights and works to promote gender equality. 

Enoch runs various non-profit organizations that develop stability, inspire the young generation to adopt leadership roles, and make the country prosperous. His beliefs have inspired millions around the world, making him one of the most inspiring Africans of our time.

4. Davido

Davido is one of the wealthiest Africans, with a net worth of 16 million dollars. He is a famous Nigerian singer, songwriter, and music producer. His melodic voice has touched the hearts of millions, not just in Nigeria but all around the world. Davido’s songs have become anthems for a generation, inspiring them to work hard and make their dreams come true. He has collaborated with many international artists and released several hit singles that have topped the music charts in Nigeria and abroad.

Davido has also used his fame and influence to promote social change in Nigeria. Davido inspired young Nigerians to vote during the 2019 elections through inspirational music. Davido aims to reach the U.S. markets and set on gigs in western countries. He has been outspoken about the need for good governance and an end to corruption and has used his platform to spread awareness about important social issues. The young music fans loved the passionate performance at Madison Square Gardens and O2 Arena. His message of hope and resilience is an inspiration to many on the African continent.

5. Tidjane Thiam

Tidjane Thiam is another inspirational personality in Africa. He is an Ivorian businessman who served as the Group Chief Executive of Credit Suisse from 2015 to 2019. He became the head of numerous global organizations, including a prominent member of the International Olympic Committee. Thiam is the executive chairman of Freedom Acquisition, an international investment company.

His achievements as the CEO of Credit Suisse include improving the bank’s financial position and overseeing its successful restructuring. Thiam is a powerful voice for change and progress in Africa. He has consistently pushed for greater transparency, ethical practices, and responsible banking.

Thiam is also a vocal advocate for gender equality and is an active member of the 30% Club, which promotes board diversity in corporate governance. He has also served as the Co-Chairman of the United Nations Global Compact in Africa and was appointed to the board of directors of the World Bank Group. 

Thiam is an inspiration for young professionals in Africa, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and strive for success. He is also a role model for ethical leadership and corporate governance.

6. Trevor Noah

Trevor Noah is a South African comedian, writer, producer, political commentator, and television host. He is among the most inspirational African leaders with millennial-inspired thinking and vision. Although Noah lives in America, he has African roots and prominent skills in comedy. Noah appeared as a contestant on a dance competition show in 2008 and performed his first comedy show in 2009. He hosts the Emmy Award-winning show “The Daily Show,” which is a satirical news program that gives voice to his country’s current political and social issues. Noah has used his platform to educate and entertain millions of people around the world, including in Africa. 

Noah has made a major impact on the African continent through his inspiring speeches and comedic skits. He has also shared his story of hardship and perseverance, inspiring millions to never give up on their dreams. His success is a testament to the power of hard work and determination. He is an inspiration to many on the African continent, showing them that it is possible to succeed if they follow their passion.

7. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a Nigerian novelist, author, and feminist. She has written several books that have been widely acclaimed and translated into over thirty languages. Some of her works include “Half Of A Yellow Sun,” “Americanah,” and “We Should All Be Feminists”. Her books explore gender, race, and identity in Africa. She is an influential voice for the equality and empowerment of women, especially in the African continent. Adichie has been featured in many articles and interviews, including with the BBC and Forbes Magazine.

Adichie is an inspiring figure for women in Africa. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie inspired women globally to break gender stereotypes, promote human rights, and prevent the subjugation of sexualities and women in society. Adiche says feminism is an integral part of human rights, and the world can never achieve peace and prosperity without the role of women. Her presence in the literary world is a beacon of hope and strength for women in Africa. Adichie is a role model for young African girls, empowering them to find their voice and stand up against oppression.

8. Koos Bekker

Koos Bekker is a South African media mogul, investor, and philanthropist. He is the former CEO of Naspers. Bekker has made significant contributions to the African technology sector, investing in companies such as MultiChoice and Showmax. He has also been a strong advocate for the development of digital infrastructure in Africa through his investments and philanthropic activities.

Koos Bekker is famous for transforming the media industry and newspaper publisher Naspers and developing innovative eCommerce solutions, including investment opportunities for people. Bekker is the founder of Naspers, an international media and entertainment group, and invested more than 34 million dollars in a Chinese internet firm to promote technological innovations in South Africa.Koos Bekker is a powerful example of an African leader and entrepreneur. He has shown that with hard work and dedication, anyone can achieve success and make a positive impact. His contributions have helped to shape the digital landscape of Africa, and he is an inspiration for African entrepreneurs.

9. Elon Musk

Elon Musk is one of the world’s most famous entrepreneurs and billionaires, competing with Bill Gates, Jeff Bezos, and other billionaires. He is a business magnate, investor, and philanthropist who owns an electric car manufacturing company and Space X, the best space exploration platform. Musk has had a great impact on the African continent, as he inspired many Africans to become entrepreneurs and break through the traditional boundaries of business. In addition, Musk has enabled access to affordable energy with his revolutionary solar panel technology, Powerwall, and has invested millions in other renewable energy initiatives in Africa.

Through his philanthropic efforts, Musk has provided access to food, water, and educational aid for impoverished communities in Africa. Musk is a leader and innovator whose work serves as an inspiration to many Africans, showing them that they can make a real difference in their society and the world. The best thing about Musk is that this brilliant mind belongs to the African continent.

10. Aliko Dangote

Aliko Dangote is among the wealthiest African men, with an estimated 10.3 billion dollars. He is the founder and CEO of Dangote Group, a conglomerate that holds numerous business interests across multiple industries. Dangote has invested in a multi-billion dollar oil refinery, probably the most significant infrastructure in Africa. Dangote has also invested in the agricultural sector and launched the London IPO of Dangote Cement in 2019.

He is a source of inspiration for many African entrepreneurs and has made enormous contributions to the continent. He has invested his time, money, and resources in various philanthropic activities to make a significant impact on the lives of people in Africa. Dangote is a symbol of hope and aspiration for many African youths, showing them that anything is possible through hard work and dedication.

Final Words

Many inspirational people living all around the world has African roots. The personalities mentioned in this article don’t just talk about their dreams and goals but also act upon them. These inspirational personalities have made significant efforts to overcome every obstacle through their innovation and forward-thinking.


FAQs

Who was the most powerful person in Africa in 2022?

Yoweri Museveni of Uganda and Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, who are now ranked 18 and 29, respectively, are the two leaders after Ruto in the international rankings.

Who is Africa’s most famous person?

Mr. Nelson Mandela, he was one of the greatest leaders of the 20th century, showed incredible bravery, perseverance, and will to set his country free from the chains of apartheid.

Who is the richest man in Africa?

Aliko Dangote was the wealthiest person in Africa as of November 2022. He was 144th in the world and had a net worth of almost $12 billion. His business, Dangote Group, is the largest conglomerate in Africa.


  • Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
  • Photos from Unsplash & canva.