Across Africa and the diaspora, women continue to shape the future through education, innovation, advocacy, technology, and storytelling. This week’s selection celebrates five remarkable women whose work reflects intellect, creativity, resilience, and purpose-driven leadership, each leaving a lasting imprint on communities and industries alike.
Genevieve Partington – Human Rights Activist and Disability Inclusion Advocate
Genevieve Partington is a Ghanaian human rights advocate recognised for her work advancing disability inclusion and accessibility. As founder of Autism Awareness Care and Training Centre, she has championed support systems for children with autism and developmental disabilities while advocating for stronger inclusion policies within education and healthcare systems. Her work has helped amplify awareness around disability rights in Ghana and across Africa, positioning her as a leading voice for inclusive social development and human dignity.
Miss Techy (Tobi Ayeni) – Technology Content Creator and Digital Educator
Widely known as “Miss Techy,” Tobi Ayeni has established herself as one of Nigeria’s most recognisable female tech content creators. Through simplified gadget reviews, tech explainers, and consumer-focused digital content, she has made technology more accessible to everyday users across Africa. Her influence extends beyond entertainment into digital literacy and consumer education, particularly among young audiences navigating the rapidly evolving tech landscape. By blending innovation with relatable storytelling, she continues to shape conversations around technology adoption and digital culture.
Ify Aniebo Rhodes-Vivour – Public Health Expert and Development Advocate
Dr. Ify Aniebo Rhodes-Vivour is a respected public health professional, researcher, and development advocate whose work focuses on healthcare systems, policy, and social impact. Holding both a PhD and Master of Public Health degree, she has contributed to conversations around healthcare equity, sustainable development, and evidence-based policy implementation. Her work reflects a multidisciplinary approach that combines research, advocacy, and strategic engagement aimed at improving health outcomes and community wellbeing across Africa.
Mamokgethi Phakeng – 10th Vice Chancellor, University of Cape Town
Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng is one of Africa’s most celebrated academic leaders and mathematicians. As the 10th Vice Chancellor of the University of Cape Town, she made history as the first Black African woman to lead the institution. Renowned for her contributions to mathematics education and academic transformation, she has received numerous international awards recognising her impact on education, research, and leadership. Her work continues to inspire conversations around inclusion, excellence, and the future of African higher education on the global stage.
Ify Mogekwu – Founder, Ify’s Kitchen
Popularly known as the “Kitchen Queen,” Ify Mogekwu has become one of Nigeria’s most beloved culinary creators through Ify’s Kitchen, a digital food platform celebrating African cuisine and home cooking. Her engaging cooking content has built a loyal audience across social media, where she combines storytelling, culture, and accessible recipes that resonate with audiences globally. Beyond food content, Mogekwu has helped elevate African culinary culture within the digital creator economy, turning traditional dishes into modern lifestyle experiences while inspiring a new generation of food entrepreneurs and creators.
Why SHE Matters
Together, these five women reflect the power of African excellence across academia, public health, technology, advocacy, and culture. Their work continues to influence how knowledge is shared, how communities are empowered, and how African voices shape the global conversation with authenticity, innovation, and purpose.
