LAGOS, Nigeria – April 4, 2025 – Resilience, resourcefulness, and collaboration are the building blocks of enduring enterprises, says Ibukun Awosika, prominent African business leader and judge at the 6th edition of the Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) Grand Finale. Speaking during her keynote address at the prestigious event, Awosika urged African entrepreneurs to rise beyond individual success and forge lasting legacies that will outlive their founders.
Held under the theme of “African Intelligence”, the 2025 ABH Summit celebrated the grit, innovation, and foresight of African entrepreneurs striving to make a difference across the continent. In her powerful address, Awosika emphasized that success is not solely defined by immediate achievement but by the courage to show up, the willingness to learn, and the tenacity to continue building despite setbacks.
“This was more than a platform to celebrate achievement; it was a testament to tenacity and the indomitable spirit of African entrepreneurship,” said Ibukun Awosika, keynote speaker and ABH judge. “The boldest entrepreneurs understand that resilience is not just about survival—it’s the foundation for sustainable success and legacy.”
Two compelling examples stood out during the finale:
- Henri Ousmane Gueye of Senegal, crowned the 2025 ABH Grand Prize Winner, triumphed on his third attempt after two previous applications.
- Alexander Odhiambo of Kenya, named Second Runner-Up, also returned stronger after an earlier application that didn’t make it past the initial stages.
Their stories reflect a vital truth at the heart of the ABH mission: resilience is a winning strategy. Entrepreneurs who keep pushing forward often build the most meaningful, long-term impact.
Awosika also lauded ABH’s evolution into a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem that not only supports business growth but also transforms leadership across Africa. “It has been immensely rewarding to witness this process transform businesses, but more importantly, transform leaders,” she remarked.
As the 2025 edition of Africa’s Business Heroes officially opens for applications, Awosika issued a call-to-action to both returning and first-time applicants:
“Let Henri and Alexander’s stories remind you that perseverance pays off. If you have the drive to do, to be, and to become—then now is your time.”
