On October 2nd, 2023, the 8th edition of the 25Under25 Awards took place at Jogor Center in Ibadan, Nigeria. This event aimed to acknowledge the exceptional achievements of young individuals in various fields. It has become an annual symbol of inspiration and recognition for the remarkable talent emerging from our youth. The event featured a photo session for the nominees, a red carpet event, an exclusive reception for the nominees, with special guest appearance, and the grand award ceremony. The 25Under25 Awards 2023 was an unforgettable celebration of young excellence.
Nominees’ Photo Session
The event began with a captivating photo session for the nominees, where each one got the opportunity to shine. Dressed in their best outfits, they displayed confidence and enthusiasm. The session not only captured the essence of their accomplishments but also provided a beautiful memory for them to treasure.
Red Carpet Glamour
The red carpet was a lively scene, with nominees displaying their elegant fashion choices. It was a vibrant showcase of colors, styles, and personalities. The red carpet was abuzz with interviews and photo opportunities, setting the tone for the grand event that was to follow.
Nominees’ Reception
After the red carpet event, there was a special reception exclusively for the nominees. This was a more personal gathering where the nominees could connect, share their experiences, and make new friends. It was a time for them to think back on their journeys and celebrate their shared accomplishments.
Special Guest Appearance
The day became even more special as distinguished guests, including Honorable Adegoke Wasilat Adefemi (the Youth Commissioner of Oyo State), Mr. Deji Macaulay (representing Truthware Solutions), and Mr. Chidera Ejiofor (of Greenforce Energy), Aunty Debbie (100women) and Rotimi Peters(Head of Operations, SME100 Africa), graced the occasion. These dignitaries are all respected experts in their fields, and their presence inspired and motivated both the nominees and attendees. They shared their experiences and insights, offering valuable advice to the young nominees. Their words left a lasting impression, profoundly impacting the audience.
Host and Co-Host
Victory Wilson and Lumee made an excellent team on stage, bringing charisma, wit, and charm to the event. They effortlessly put the audience at ease and injected the evening with energy and enthusiasm. Their camaraderie was contagious, and their interactions with nominees and winners made the night truly unforgettable. They conducted themselves with grace and professionalism, ensuring that every moment was special.
Executive Director’s Inspiring Remarks
Remi Ademiju, Executive Director of SME100 Africa, delivered an inspiring speech emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and supporting youth achievements.
A talented musician enchanted the audience with soul-stirring melodies, creating a vibrant and celebratory atmosphere
Remarks from Past Winners
At the 25Under25 Awards, previous winners shared their experiences and provided valuable advice to the new nominees. Their stories demonstrated how persistence, creativity, and resilience can lead to remarkable achievements through the power of determination and dedication.
The Award Ceremony
The most important moment of the day was undoubtedly the award ceremony. The impressive hall was full of excitement as the nominees, guests, and sponsors gathered to see who the winners would be. Awards were given in different categories, each representing a unique aspect of excellence, ranging from entrepreneurship to social impact and more.
The hall was filled with joy, pride, and tears of happiness as the winners were announced. They were celebrated not only for their achievements but also for their potential to drive positive change in society, which was truly heartwarming to witness.
And now, the 25Under25 Awards 2023 Winners: (Click here to read their bio)
- Busayo Ademuyiwa – (Active Citizenship & Government Engagement)
- Mariam Adebayo – (Agriculture)
- Testimony Ipaye – (Arts, Craft & Culture)
- Akinselure Oluwatoni – (Beauty & Makeup)
- Olawumi Loye – (Creative Writing & Content Creation)
- Doyinsola Abike Okunola – (E-commerce)
- Frank Samuel Chigozirim – (Education)
- Isiaka Taiwo & Kehinde – (Energy & Sustainability)
- Zainab Abike Kadiri-Lawal – (Environment & Interior Decor)
- Eseoghene Oghenerhoro – (Event Planning)
- Oladimeji Olasunkanmi (Fashion)
- Okunade Boluwaduro – (Finance & Financial Technology)
- Shekoni Jemima Oluwagbemisola – (Food & Drinks)
- Vivian Arinze – (Health & Skincare)
- Maryam Adebusola Adeola – (Hospitality & Tourism)
- Ojapinwa Racheal Olamide – (Manufacturing & Logistics)
- Pamela Godwin Williams – (Media & Communications)
- David Bolaji – (Music)
- Arinze Chinonso – (Performing Arts)
- Faturoti Ayodeji – (Photography)
- Victor Njoku – (Professional Services)
- Oluwadunsin Bolaji – (Social Entrepreneurship)
- Eniola Robert – (Software & Design)
- Inidara I. Uwa – (Sports)
- Ezeabasilim Chiemerie Emzor – (Technology)
The 2023 25Under25 Awards were a wonderful showcase of the amazing talent, passion, and dedication of young individuals under the age of 25. The event had many memorable moments, from the Nominees’ photo session and red-carpet glamour to the exclusive reception, the inspiring special guest appearance, and the grand award ceremony. Overall, the awards truly embodied the spirit of celebration and recognition.
Reflecting on this unforgettable day, we are reminded that the future is bright and the youth of today are shaping it in remarkable ways. The 25Under25 Awards serve as a platform to recognize and celebrate young excellence, inspiring countless others to dream big and achieve greatness.
Stay tuned for the upcoming 25Under25 Awards edition where we will honor young visionaries and change-makers who are making a difference in our world.
