YALI Honours Oluwafunke Kofoworade as “Next-Generation Talent in Digital Tech Product Management” at 2022 International Youth Day Event
At this year’s International Youth Day celebration, the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Network has named Oluwafunke Kofoworade with a prestigious title of “Next-Generation Talent in Digital Tech Product Management” in recognition of her outstanding impact in Africa’s fast-evolving digital economy.
The award was presented during a high-level YALI event held on August 24, 2022, themed “Intergenerational Solidarity: Creating a World for All Ages.”
“Oluwafunke earned recognition as a rising leader for her role in driving inclusive digital innovation across multiple sectors, from financial services to technology-driven solutions that empower entrepreneurs and communities, shaping Africa’s emerging digital economy.”
The award, presented by YALI Network, recognises individuals who are shaping the future of technology and leadership in Africa. According to the YALI selection panel,
“Oluwafunke’s vision is to make digital technology a driver of inclusion and sustainable innovation, rather than a privilege for the few. Her work stands out not only for its strategic clarity but also for its tangible impact in under-resourced markets, where scalable and accessible solutions are often deprioritised. She brings together deep product expertise and a talent for translating complex systems into practical, real-world solutions that empower entrepreneurs and teams at the grassroots of Africa’s digital economy.”
“We are proud to recognise Oluwafunke’s impact in driving inclusive digital innovation and empowering younger generations to harness technology for sustainable growth,” said one of the award organisers. “She exemplifies the spirit of creativity, resilience, and youth empowerment that YALI stands for.”
Through her thought leadership and knowledge-sharing initiatives, Oluwafunke continues to strengthen the digital ecosystem by equipping emerging innovators with practical insights and strategies to build scalable, user-centered solutions that address Africa’s unique challenges.
Oluwafunke played a pivotal role in supporting the rapid growth of a digital platforms serving users across Africa. She led efforts to scale fintech operations that expanded financial access to over 2,000 businesses and facilitated more than $180,000 in monthly loans. Beyond this, through her initiative in knowledge-sharing and mentoring, she continues to strengthen Africa’s digital ecosystem by equipping emerging innovators with practical insights and strategies to build scalable, user-focused solutions
The platform’s impact is already being felt across multiple markets, enabling business owners to digitise their processes, access credit, and scale with greater efficiency. Oluwafunke’s use of agile delivery frameworks, combined with a deep understanding of user behavior, has been credited with the product’s early success.
Reacting to the award, Oluwafunke expressed gratitude to the YALI Network and reaffirmed her commitment to building inclusive technology that empowers underserved communities.
“This recognition fuels my belief in African-built solutions. I am honoured to be part of a generation that’s shaping the future of digital technology and entrepreneurship on the continent,” she said.
The YALI Network, launched by the U.S. Department of State, is one of Africa’s most influential platforms for emerging leaders, providing world-class leadership training and spotlighting game-changers in policy, business, and technology.
As digital transformation accelerates across Africa, leaders like Oluwafunke Kofoworade are proving that youth-led innovation is not just the future it’s already here.
