Nissi Ogulu wins ICON Award at Forbes Women Summit

Admin I Friday, March 07, 2025

 

LAGOS, Nigeria – Nissi Ogulu took the stage at the Forbes Woman Africa Leading Women Summit 2025, delivering a compelling speech that resonated deeply with global leaders, innovators, and change-makers while being honoured with the prestigious ‘Youth Icon Award.

‘As a true polymath bridging the worlds of music, visual arts, engineering, and entrepreneurship Nissi shared an inspiring message on the power of creativity, resilience, and innovation in shaping Africa’s future.

Her address championed the rise of women in leadership, the evolution of sustainable technology, and the responsibility of African creatives to own their narratives.

In her speech, Nissi highlighted her work with Kemet Automotive, the pioneering electric vehicle company she co-founded to revolutionise mobility in Africa.

She emphasised the urgent need for sustainable innovation, infrastructure investment, and policies that empower African entrepreneurs to drive lasting change.

Drawing from her own experiences as an engineer who contributed to the design of the 2023 Range Rover model, she challenged young women to step into industries traditionally dominated by men, reminding them that true leadership is born at the intersection of creativity and courage.

“We are not waiting for a seat at the table anymore; we are building our own tables,” she declared, igniting a wave of applause from the audience.

Beyond technology and business, Nissi’s speech reinforced the interconnectedness of creativity and innovation, illustrating how art, music, and engineering are powerful tools for progress. She encouraged young women to embrace multifaceted identities, reject limitations, and forge paths that redefine what success looks like. Her presence at the summit was not just as a speaker but as a symbol of the limitless potential African women possess when they dare to dream beyond convention.

As an artist, visionary behind Creele Animation Studios and co-founder of Kemet Automotive with a global presence, Nissi Ogulu continues to challenge norms and redefine industries, making her one of the most influential voices of her generation. Her speech and receipt of the ‘Youth Icon Award’ at Forbes Woman Africa’s Leading Women Summit 2025 will be remembered as a defining moment that champions a new era of bold, fearless, and innovative African leadership.