GOLD
Eileen Akbaraly: Founder, Made For A Woman
Eileen Akbaraly is the founder of Made For A Woman, Madagascar’s first women-led social enterprise using fashion as a tool for empowerment, sustainability and systemic change.
Rooted in Eileen’s deep connection to the country, the project has, since 2019, supported over 750 employees – 91% women from underserved communities – through dignified work, healthcare, childcare, education, mental health support and personal development.
Eileen’s leadership challenges traditional luxury fashion by centering people over products and building a transparent, inclusive, and community-focused supply chain. Her SHAPE model – Social entrepreneurship, Human-first approach, Awareness, Personal growth, and Empowerment – offers a scalable framework for ethical, regenerative business, embedding ethics into the global fashion scenario.
Under her guidance, Made For A Woman is reshaping how we define success in business and fashion: Eileen’s work proves that purpose, equity and sustainability are not only compatible with profit and growth – they are essential to it.
SILVER
Kwabena Osei-Sarpong: RIFE International
Kwabena Osei-Sarpong is a globally recognized leader in sustainability and clean energy, serving as President & CEO of RIFE International. He leads innovative climate tech initiatives in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainable development across multiple continents. A strong advocate for equitable clean energy access, Kwabena works closely with policymakers and mentors emerging entrepreneurs and students. He serves on several high-level advisory councils, including the U.S. President’s Advisory Council on Doing Business in Africa and the U.S. Department of Commerce Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Advisory Committee (REEEAC), among others. A sought-after global speaker, he regularly engages audiences at universities, international summits, and industry forums sharing insights on climate innovation, leadership, and inclusive development. His work has earned numerous prestigious awards, celebrating his impact on clean energy, sustainability, and global development. Kwabena continues to empower underserved communities and inspire future climate leaders.
BRONZE
Nuri Kino: Founder, A Demand For Action
Nuri is Founder & President of A Demand For Action (ADFA) – a volunteer-driven humanitarian organization.
Rapid Emergency Response: Led ADFA’s crisis interventions, including:
- Turkey-Syria Earthquake (2023): Rescued 19 people, coordinated emergency C-sections, and delivered 200+ tons of aid.
- Ukraine Refugee Crisis (2022-2024): Relocated 3,800 refugees, delivered 500 tons of aid, and provided specialized tech for visually impaired refugees.
- Armenian Refugee Support (2023): Established shelters, provided sustainable agriculture support, and gained international media recognition.
Policy Influence & Advocacy: Contributed to U.S. State Department reports, influenced Congressional resolutions, and shaped Sweden’s foreign aid policies.
Sustainability & Innovation: Created long-term support models (health clinics, sustainable agriculture, food security programs).
Recognition & Leadership: Named “Sweden’s Most Powerful in Aid Debate” (2023), secured key partnerships with Google & major institutions.
Impact: 150,000+ lives directly affected, from disaster zones to refugee camps to policy forums.
ONE-TO-WATCH
Bello M. Tongo: Founder, Tongston
Engr. Bello M. Tongo is a multi-award-winning executive with 14+ years’ experience in construction, design, education, business & entrepreneurship. He is the Founder & CEO of Tongston, a global award-winning group focused on education, enterprise, media & finance. He has been recognized by FUELD, Global Meaningful Business, GFEL, Education 2.0, Education Influence & more. As a consultant and educator, he has worked with PURD Consulting, ICICE Academy, and co-founded the NTIC Alumni Association. Bello regularly speaks at major platforms including E-Learning Africa, QS Reimagine Education, AFSIC London, Africa SDGs Outlet, CNBC Africa, Education 2.0 UAE & more! He holds degrees in Civil Engineering (University of Birmingham), PGCE in Construction Management, and a PGDE in Innovation in Teaching & Learning. He is a TRCN-certified educator, board member at Skills Outside School Foundation and Educators’ Community – Global, and a member of IOD YDF, ACCI Young CEOs Club, and VC4A.