The African Business Heroes Prize went to Ikpeme Neto of WellaHealth, a digital health insurance company based in Nigeria.
The startup was awarded $300,000 for its role in creating more than 123,000 employees, both directly and indirectly.
Congratulations to our 2023 top three heroes for reshaping the narrative of African business and impacting millions in the communities they serve:
🌟 Dr. Ikpeme Neto @docneto, the 1st Prize Winner of ABH and Founder/CEO of WellaHealth, is revolutionizing healthcare with… pic.twitter.com/IdSqW0z69q
— Africa’s Business Heroes (@africa_heroes) December 1, 2023
Not only that, but Ayman Bazaraa of Sprints (Egypt) received $150,000 and Thomas Njeru of Pula Advisors (Kenya) received $250,000.
Out of an unprecedented 27,267 applications from all 54 African nations, the top three recipients were chosen following a series of interviews and evaluations.
Their remarkable resourcefulness and determination have made a lasting impression on their communities and beyond.
In Kigali, Rwanda, at an AR-enabled Grand Finale, the winners were announced.
A final panel of judges, including Dr Diane Karusisi, CEO of Bank of Kigali, Ibukun Awosika, Founder and CEO of The Chair Centre Group, and Joe Tsai, Chairman of Alibaba Group, heard pitches from the shortlisted startups.
In addition to the three grand prize winners, ABH is offering $100,000 to the top ten finalists. Each of the top ten finalists will also get an additional $10,000 to use towards training programmes after the tournament.
“I am deeply honoured to be named this year’s Africa’s Business Heroes winner. This award energizes my commitment to driving positive change through innovation. I extend heartfelt gratitude to ABH for empowering entrepreneurs like me, and I am dedicated to shaping a brighter future for our continent through entrepreneurship. I am excited for the recognition of Wellahealth Technologies’ work and grateful for my team, family and the ABH team for making this impact in healthcare across Africa possible,” said Ikpeme Neto, CEO and Founder, Wellahealth Technologies, ABH 2023 First Prize Winner.
“The winners of this year’s ABH competition embody bold ambition and innovation, exemplifying the true essence of entrepreneurial spirit and a deep commitment to addressing societal challenges. The judges recognized them for their remarkable ability to turn challenges into opportunities, unwavering commitment to community betterment, and innovative approaches to solving pressing issues. Their resilience, passion and impactful contributions make them not just business leaders, but true champions of change,” said Jason Pau, Executive Director of International Programmes, at Jack Ma Foundation.
With a combined investment of more than US$153 million and the fulfilment of more than 37.5 million customers or users, the recipients of the ABH Prize Competition grants have accomplished tremendous accomplishments since 2019.
This group of business owners has been able to expand their businesses to 52 different African countries because of the $7 million in prize money they won.
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