Top 10 Prestigious International Awards in Africa You Should Know About

 Africa is rising fast—and so is global recognition of its talent.

From trailblazing entrepreneurs to world-class innovators, African professionals are making waves on international platforms. And what better way to spotlight this brilliance than through prestigious international business professional awards in Africa?

If you're in the events organization space or simply love attending high-profile international events, this list will give you the inside scoop on the awards that matter.

Let’s dive into the top 10 you should definitely know about.

1. All Africa Business Leaders Awards (AABLA)

One of the continent’s most respected awards. AABLA honors business excellence and leadership in innovation, social impact, and entrepreneurship across regions.

2. African Banker Awards

Celebrating the finest in Africa’s finance sector, this award highlights banks, fintech startups, and financial leaders reshaping the continent’s economic future.

It’s a must-watch international event for anyone involved in African economic development.

3. Forbes Africa Person of the Year

Recognizing individuals with game-changing contributions to Africa’s growth, this award brings global attention to homegrown talent across business, tech, and philanthropy.

4. Africa CEO Forum Awards

This event brings together top CEOs from across Africa and beyond. Their awards celebrate visionaries who drive performance and create impact in their sectors.

It’s not just about prestige—it’s a strategic networking opportunity too.

5. Innovation Prize for Africa (IPA)

Organized by the African Innovation Foundation, this award spotlights tech and science innovation solving real-world African challenges.

Perfect for startups and innovators looking to scale globally.

6. Future Africa Awards (TFAA)

Focused on young changemakers under 40, TFAA celebrates rising African stars making a mark in business, media, and governance.

If you’re organizing youth-focused events, this one offers powerful inspiration.

7. African Leadership Magazine Awards

Held in various cities worldwide, these awards recognize outstanding African leaders and organizations shaping the continent’s future.

It’s one of the most prominent international business professional awards in Africa.

8. South African Small Business Awards

This national award puts the spotlight on SMEs, celebrating resilience, creativity, and local impact—making it ideal for entrepreneurs and small business forums.

9. Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) Awards

Focused on women-led innovation and entrepreneurship, this award uplifts female leaders changing industries across Africa.

Great for inclusive events organization planning and women empowerment initiatives.

10. Global African Business Awards (GABA)

GABA offers a pan-African platform that recognizes outstanding achievements in business, marketing, and leadership.

Its international reach and credibility make it a top-tier international event for professionals across industries.

Why These Awards Matter

These awards don’t just celebrate achievement—they open doors. Whether you’re a rising entrepreneur, a company looking for exposure, or a professional in events organization, being part of these events connects you with Africa’s most dynamic thinkers and doers.

They also attract media attention, global investors, and policy influencers, making them critical networking and brand-building platforms.

Final Thoughts

Africa’s business scene is buzzing with energy, innovation, and impact. These international business professional awards in Africa are more than trophies—they’re milestones that elevate careers and inspire new leaders.

So, whether you plan to attend, support, or host any of these incredible international events, now’s the time to plug into Africa’s winning moment.