The African Diaspora Network (ADN) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 African Diaspora Luminaire Awards, recognizing visionary leaders from Africa and the diaspora who have made high-level impact in philanthropy, entrepreneurship, global health, and economic development. Presented during the 10th Annual African Diaspora Investment Symposium (ADIS25), the Luminaire Awards honor individuals whose work reflects a deep commitment to advancing the African continent and uplifting global communities.
The 2025 Luminaire Award honorees include:
Motaz Attalla
A systems thinker and champion of equity-centered philanthropy, Attalla is recognized for his commitment to innovation, collaboration, and diaspora-led transformation.
Dr. Menghis Bairu
A visionary in global health and medical innovation, Dr. Bairu bridges diaspora expertise with African health systems to improve access, equity, and outcomes.
Thelma Ekiyor-Solanke
A trailblazer in the fields of impact investing and women’s economic empowerment, Ekiyor’s leadership has helped unlock capital for inclusive growth and gender equity in Africa.
Ali Garba
A quiet philanthropist whose steadfast support for community development across the Sahel region exemplifies the spirit of giving and long-term investment in local resilience.
Roland Pearson
A long-time champion of financial inclusion and African economic development, Pearson has led innovative efforts to expand access to capital and opportunity across the continent.
Rahama Wright
A pioneering entrepreneur and advocate for sustainable enterprise in Africa, Wright has built social impact ventures that empower women and promote ethical sourcing.
PAST LUMINAIRE AWARDS WINNERS
2024 WINNERS
Stanley Anigbogu
Founder, LightEd
Thomas DeBass
Managing Director of the Office of Global Partnerships, U.S. Department of State
Ali Diallo
Founder of Aurion Capital and Managing Director of Nova Prime Fund
Latanya Mapp
President and CEO, Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors
Joyce Msuya
United Nations Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator
Kady Sylla
Director - Africa, Myriad USA (Formerly KBFUS)
2023 WINNERS
Yohannes Assefa
Director of Market Systems,
Stalwart Management Consultancy Services
Twum Djin
Head of Engineering, Payments Conversion at Stripe
