When Afua Kyei walked into the male-dominated halls of the Bank of England as its Chief Financial Officer, she carried more than her portfolio—she bore the hopes of countless others who dared to dream of breaking barriers.
Hers is just one of the remarkable stories celebrated in the African Business Chamber’s (AfBC) 2024 Top 100 African Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders in the UK, a list that shines a spotlight on individuals whose resilience, vision, and grit have redefined the UK Economy.
Behind every growing economy is an army of resilient, visionary and inspiring entrepreneurs, professionals and changemakers.
This year’s honorees have not only broken barriers but have redefined leadership across industries—from finance to technology, healthcare, and beyond.
With over 425 nominations and a rigorous selection process, these individuals represent the best of innovation, influence, and impact.
This year's list showcase an array of professionals across different sectors, reflecting the immense contribution of African talent to the UK’s economic and social fabric.
Some of the leaders include Afua Kyei, Chief Financial Officer of the Bank of England as one of the few Black women in such a high-ranking financial role.
On the legal side, Grace Ononiwu CBE, Director of Legal Services at the Crown Prosecution Service who has paved the way for underrepresented groups in the legal profession, earning her a reputation as a mentor and role model.
George Imafidon MBE, CEO of Motivez, has empowered young Black talent through mentorship and education, opening doors for hundreds of aspiring professionals in STEM fields.
Meanwhile, Tommie Edwards FRSA, Co-Founder and CEO of Tech1M, brings innovaton to the HRTech space, connecting global talent with opportunities while fostering equity in recruitment practices.
“The AfBC Top 100 Initiative isn’t just about celebrating achievements,” explains Eugene Nizeyimana, CEO of the African Business Chamber (AfBC). “It’s about sharing stories that ignite change and empower others to believe in their potential.”
This year’s honorees represent more than personal success—they embody the transformative power of African leadership in the UK economy. Their contributions span from creating jobs and fostering inclusive growth to inspiring the next generation of leaders.
The full list of honorees, including changemakers like Vanessa Kingori OBE of Google and Dr. Raphael Sofoluke of the UK Black Business Show, can be found on the AfBC website.
The celebration continues with the AfBC Annual African Business Awards and Gala, scheduled for Thursday, 29 May 2025, in London. This prestigious event promises to spotlight the remarkable impact of African business leaders on the UK’s economy while inspiring the next generation to dream bigger.
