Over the weekend, Lagos hosted one of Africa’s most anticipated youth events “The Future Awards Africa 2025”. The 19th edition, themed “Threads of Legacy,” gathered some of the brightest young minds shaping the continent’s future in style and purpose.
Held at the Landmark Event Centre, the night was a fusion of glamour, culture and inspiration. Guests walked the red carpet in breathtaking looks before settling in for a ceremony that delivered heartfelt speeches and unforgettable moments.
Hosting duties were handled by Mike Afolarin, the ever-charismatic Nollywood actor and Azeezah Hashin, the Kenyan media star who made history as the first East African to co-host the awards.
Speaking at the event, Ayodeji Razaq, Executive Director of The Future Awards Africa, said:
“We are proud to honour the exceptional young people adding the threads to our collective legacy. Tonight’s winners have proven with their powerful work and impact that legacy is not built in a single moment but through every decision we make.”
And now, the moment everyone’s been waiting for, here’s the full list of winners who took home the prestigious plaques this year:
The Future Awards Africa 2025: Full Winners List
1. Young Person of the Year – Fola David
The artist-doctor combo we didn’t know we needed. Fola David has been using art to create awareness about health and social issues, and now he’s the Future Awards Young Person of the Year. Well deserved, King!
2. Content Creation – Mariam Apaokagi (Taaooma)
The queen of multiple characters strikes again! From “Kehinde” to “Iya Tao,” Taaooma continues to make us laugh while keeping it clean, smart and wildly Nigerian.
3. Entrepreneurship – Tomike Adeoye
TV host, influencer, businesswoman and all-round sweetheart. Tomike is proof that you can build a brand, stay consistent and still make everyone smile while doing it.
4. Performing Arts – Big Bimi
Energy. Talent. Stage presence. Big Bimi came with the vibes this year and took home the award for Performing Arts. The stage clearly belongs to her now.
5. Acting – Adebowale Adedayo (Mr Macaroni)
Debo keeps evolving , from skits to screen to serious roles, and now this. Future Awards, you did well. Freaky Freaky Daddy has range!
6. Creativity and Innovation- Taiwo Abisoye Joel
7. Photography- Amazing Klef
8. Education – John Onuigbo
9. Journalism – Madina Dahiru Maishanu
10. Health and Wellness – Funmilola Aderemi
11. Community Action – Hammed Kayode Alabi
12. Arts – Ayobola Kekere-Ekun
13. Literature – Adedayo Agarau
14. Activism and Advocacy – Solomon Ayodele (Boys Quarters Africa)
15. Fashion – Richmond Barnes (Will and Barnes Group)
16. Law – Ogenetega Adedipe
17. Film – Oluwadamilola Apampa
18. Professional Service – Bode Roberts
19. Technology – Kelvin Umechukwu
20. Performing Arts – Big Bimi
21. Intrapreneurship – Solomon Ayodele
22. On-Air Personality – Azeezah Hashim (Kenya)
23. Agriculture – Adetiloye Aiyeola
24. Governance – Daniel Otabor
25. Music – Okeowo Oladotun Alani
26. Sports – Rasheedat Ajibade
27. Service to Young People (Honorary) – Ali Baba
Final thoughts
From doctors to digital creators, artists to activists, the 2025 edition truly celebrated the new wave of African excellence. Each awardee represents a reminder that the continent’s future is not just bright, it’s already here and it’s young.
Stay tuned for next week’s roundup because, in Nigeria, the news never sleeps. Follow Lists NG on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok for more.
