Ellen Named Among Forbes Africa 15 Icons

Former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has been named among 15 influential African personalities featured in the special 15th-anniversary edition of Forbes Africa magazine.

The magazine has recognized individuals whose contributions have helped shape the continent development and global influence.

The selection celebrates leaders and changemakers across business, politics, entertainment, culture, sports and other sectors whose achievements have made lasting economic, social and cultural impacts on Africa over the past 15 years.

Sirleaf, Africa’s first elected female head of state, is recognized for her place in the continent’s political history and her contribution to advancing women’s leadership.

Her inclusion places Liberia among the countries represented in the magazine’s collection of influential African figures.

According to Forbes Africa, the anniversary edition highlights 15 individuals whose ideas, innovations, leadership and determination have helped reshape perceptions of Africa.

The magazine said its selection goes beyond wealth, fame or professional accomplishments to recognize enduring influence and contributions that continue to inspire future generations.

The publication noted that Africa’s global influence extends beyond its natural resources and economic growth to include culture, diplomacy, business and creative industries.

It cited the continent’s growing soft power, which influences how African countries and their people are perceived internationally.

The magazine also highlighted several prominent African personalities from different fields, including Nigerian media entrepreneur Mo Abudu, South African comedian Trevor Noah, Beninese music star Angélique Kidjo, Tanzanian-born novelist Abdulrazak Gurnah, Kenyan-Mexican actress Lupita Nyong’o and Nigerian musician Burna Boy.

In business, the list recognizes influential entrepreneurs and corporate leaders, including Patrice Motsepe, Strive Masiyiwa, Aliko Dangote and Johann Rupert, whose activities have contributed to shaping Africa’s commercial landscape.

South African businessman Adrian Gore was also mentioned among figures whose work has helped demonstrate the continent’s economic potential.

The publication further acknowledged the contributions of athletes such as Ethiopian long-distance runner Haile Gebrselassie and former Ivorian football star Didier Drogba, whose achievements have brought international recognition to African sports and inspired young people across the continent.

In the policy and governance sector, Forbes Africa also highlighted Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the first woman and first African to serve as Director-General of the World Trade Organization.

Her work has focused on international trade, economic reform and the need for African countries to reduce excessive dependence on raw commodity exports.

The magazine’s anniversary edition reflects its original mission, launched 15 years ago, to tell a broader story about Africa beyond narratives dominated by aid and crises.

 It emphasizes the achievements of individuals whose influence has helped reshape the continent’s image and expand opportunities for future generations.

Sirleaf’s recognition comes as Liberia continues to reflect on its political history and the role of women in national leadership.

Her inclusion among the 15 icons offers international recognition of her place in Africa’s political narrative, alongside personalities who have made their mark in business, culture, sports and global affairs.

The publication said the individuals featured have helped expand perceptions of what Africans can achieve through leadership, innovation, discipline and determination.

 Their influence, it added, extends beyond personal success to include meaningful contributions to Africa’s economic, social, cultural and international standing.