The Folklore 50 Africa: Entrepreneurs Shaping African Creativity and Commerce

Across Africa, a new wave of entrepreneurs is leading a powerful evolution in creative business. These visionaries are not only building thriving companies—they’re architecting ecosystems that amplify African stories, innovation, and excellence on the global stage.

As part of The Folklore 50 Africa, we’re proud to spotlight five founders and founding teams whose businesses are transforming how beauty, fashion, media, and art are made, shared, and celebrated across the continent and beyond.

✨ Subuola Oyeleye – Founder, Beauty Hut Africa (Nigeria)
Subuola Oyeleye is reimagining beauty distribution in Africa. Through Beauty Hut Africa, she champions African-made cosmetics and makes them widely accessible—bridging local brands with consumers across Nigeria and beyond.

✨ Moulaye Taboure, Kadry Diallo & Luc B. Perussault Diall – Co-Founders, ANKA (Ivory Coast)
Originally known for Afrikrea, this founding trio evolved their e-commerce vision into ANKA—a powerful SaaS platform enabling African brands to sell globally. With solutions spanning payments, shipping, and storefronts, ANKA is fueling Africa’s creative export economy.

✨ Adaora Oramah – Founder, Amaka Studio (Nigeria)
Adaora Oramah launched Amaka Studio as a digital media platform dedicated to amplifying the voices and stories of Black women. From curated newsletters to viral interviews, the brand is pushing media boundaries and creating space for nuanced, empowering narratives.

✨ Tokini Peterside-Schwebig – Founder, ART X Lagos (Nigeria)
Through ART X Lagos, Tokini Peterside-Schwebig has built West Africa’s premier international art fair. Her work has elevated African contemporary art on the global scene, while nurturing local collectors and cultural dialogue.

✨ Nandi Dlepu – Founder, Mamakashaka (South Africa)
With Mamakashaka, Nandi Dlepu curates lifestyle experiences that connect people and purpose—from Joburg's must-attend creative gatherings to content celebrating African cultural cool. Her work weaves together community, art, and storytelling.

Why These Entrepreneurs Matter

These leaders are not simply reacting to market trends—they're creating new models for success rooted in African identity, collaboration, and ambition. Their companies foster platforms, pipelines, and pride. They are builders of a more inclusive, creative global economy.

The Folklore is proud to honor these changemakers who are laying the foundation for generations of African creatives to rise and thrive.