In his welcome address at the inDrive Safety Education Summit 2.0 held on Friday, June 20, 2025, Timothy Oladimeji, country representative, inDrive Nigeria, stated that the summit was conceived with the aim of fashioning out insights that would help the platform to work with other stakeholders with a view to ensuring safety of both drivers and riders while also bridging users’ education gap about its safety features.

Oladimeji explained that safety remains a collective responsibility which all stakeholders including riders and drivers must take cognizance of.

He disclosed that inDrive has invested heavily on technology to improve its safety features such that even before a rider gets on a trip, safety is already guaranteed.

Delivering his keynote address, Commissioner for Transportation, Lagos State, Oluwaseun Osiyemi who was represented by the Director, Public Transport and Commuter Services (PTCS), Engr. Adebayo Olusoji described the gathering convened by inDrive as a testament to the collective commitment of stakeholders to creating safer environments for citizens.

At a panel session titled, ”Strengthening Driver & Passenger Trust”, Osiyemi explained that it has become imperative to strengthen collaborations, and address the challenges faced in the journey towards safer urban mobility.

Highlighting some of the steps necessary to make urban mobility safe, he identified the need to prioritize strengthening of interagency coordination through concerted efforts of various government bodies, transport authorities, law enforcement, and even private sector players must come together

According to him, creating streamlined communication channels and fostering a spirit of collaboration among these entities would open doors to innovative solutions that address the pressing issues of traffic congestion, road safety, and emergency response.

“We have seen the impact that enhanced coordination can have in mitigating crises and ensuring quick and effective responses to emergencies. Whether it’s through shared data systems, joint training exercises, or collaborative policy-making, the benefits of interagency coordination are vast. It is time we leverage our collective knowledge and resources to create a harmonized approach to urban mobility,” he said.

He also pointed out the need to standardize safety regulations across boards adding that by doing so, all operators and transport systems will be held to the same high level of safety, regardless of location or mode of transport.

“In our quest for standardization, we must also remain adaptive, as technology continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace. Our regulations must incorporate modern advancements such as smart mobility solutions and emerging safety technologies to ensure that we are not only reactive but proactive in our approach to improving urban mobility and safety,” he said.

He also identified the need for inclusive stakeholder engagement in the policymaking process, stating that insights and perspectives from transportation stakeholders are instrumental in crafting policies that are both effective and empathetic to the needs of diverse populations.

Making his submission during the panel session, Superintendent Route Commander, Federal Road Safety Corp, Lagos Command, Ayodele Ologun revealed that the law enforcement agency is doing a lot within its power to ensure that passengers, riders and drivers are safe.

Ologun stated that the Lagos command has been quite responsive in reporting incidents or crashes and providing post-crash inspection to victims post-crash and post-crash monitoring as the need arises.

He disclosed that the agency has upscaled its service delivery to Nigerians especially with the introduction of the FRSC app for any individual to report if there is an accident or determine the speed of the vehicle in question.

Also speaking at the session, Public Relations Officer, Nigerian Police Force, Lagos Command), Benjamin Hundeyin who was represented by the Deputy Superintendent of Police, Rapid Response Squad, Lagos Command, Adedayo Abu Sadiq explained that the Nigeria Police Force is doing everything within the ambit of the law to guarantee the safety of every Nigerian.

According to Abu Sodiq, the current Nigerian Police Force has been quite responsive in protecting the citizen especially as it relates to any case of emergency.

He stated that the Force would continue to collaborate with ride-hailing platforms, transport stakeholders as well as other law enforcement agencies  in ensuring the safety of citizens.

Also speaking during the session, Country Public Policy & Government Affairs manager, inDrive Nigeria, Maryanne Momoh-Ige stressed the need for the government to formulate public policy that protects ethical disclosure of data noting that doing so serves as an appropriate framework needed to protect the passengers, the companies, and  their fundamental rights to data privacy.

The event also featured a fireside chat titled “Innovation in App-Based Mobility Safety” and involving the winner of 2023 Aurora Tech award, Folake Owodunni.

Globally, women make up 14% of tech leaders, and this figure rises slightly to 20% in Africa. Nonetheless, there are individuals sleeplessly fighting to ensure inclusion, and women in tech whose vision, innovation, and hardwork are changing what has been for so long.

These fighters—women who achieved a lot in 2024, are joining the likes of Ifeoluwa Dare-Johnson, Adaora Nwodo, Honey Ogundeyi, Ruth Iselema and many others to tackle local and global challenges, while driving resilience in their respective fields. 

Some of these women in tech to watch in 2025 include:

1. Fara Ashiru Jituboh

As the co-founder and CEO of Okra, Fara Ashiru Jituboh has helped build solutions to enhance Nigeria’s financial technology sector. In 2024, she was recognised as one of Bridge Africa Technologies’ Most Influential Women in Tech in Nigeria. 

This accolade came in the same year that saw her company launch Nebula, a cloud service specifically built for African businesses.

Nebula is a movement towards self-sufficiency in the tech industry, addressing the challenges of foreign exchange rates by allowing payments in local currencies like the naira. With its secure, scalable infrastructure and compliance with African data regulations, the platform has become a very important tool for businesses seeking cost-effective cloud solutions. 

With the introduction of Nebula, Okra has strengthened the local cloud computing market and is continually working to provide locally-targeted tech solutions.

Jituboh’s vision for Okra has always been to bridge the gap between technology and financial inclusion. Since its inception, the company has partnered with over 100 organisations, including major banks and enterprises, offering tools that enable businesses to achieve full digital transformation. 

Her impact on the company has helped secure over $4.5 million in funding from top-tier global investors and made financial data more accessible, directly addressing the challenges of financial inclusion in Nigeria.

[LinkedIn Page]

2. Bukola Ajayi

With over two decades of experience in the telecommunications industry, Bukola Ajayi is a disruptive mind in technology and business management. Currently serving as the General Manager of Architecture and Engineering at MTN Nigeria, she has played a huge role in enhancing the company’s network infrastructure and operations.

In 2024, Ajayi was at the fore of MTN Nigeria’s Agile transformation initiative, M-Agile. This multi-functional framework incorporated methodologies like Lean, Kanban, and Scrum, leading to a 40% reduction in turnaround time, a 25% cost savings, and a 50% increase in project deliveries. 

Her ability to blend technical expertise with strategic planning has consistently driven operational success within the organisation.

Ajayi was a key speaker at the International Project Management Day 2024, hosted by MTN Nigeria, where she highlighted the role of project managers in driving innovation and delivering dynamic solutions. Her contributions to MTN’s initiatives have endured efficiency and effectiveness in the telecommunications sector, making her one of the top women in tech to watch in 2025.

[LinkedIn Page]

3. Efe Ukala

As the founder of ImpactHER, Efe Ukala has dedicated her career to empowering women entrepreneurs across Africa. Her works were recognised in 2024 when she was honoured in Involve People’s Heroes Role Model list, celebrating her leadership and focus on women’s inclusion in the tech industry.

Under Ukala’s leadership, ImpactHER has supported over 130,000 women-led businesses across 53 African countries. In 2024, the organisation completed three cohorts of intensive learning programmes, training female entrepreneurs with digital skills to grow their enterprises. 

Ukala’s advocacy for digital inclusion also saw her addressing the African Union, where she emphasised the importance of technology access and Startup Acts for women-led SMEs.

Ukala’s professional journey as an investment attorney and her tenure at organisations like J.P. Morgan Chase and Kuramo Capital Management has prepared her for a unique perspective on cross-border investments and compliance. Her ability to merge her legal expertise with her passion for gender equity has made ImpactHER a top organisation in driving economic empowerment for African women. These and more have placed her among the top women in tech to watch in 2025.

[LinkedIn Page]

4. Chisom Nwokwu

Chisom Nwokwu, a Software Engineer specializing in Big Data, had an extraordinary year in 2024, achieving milestones that set her apart in the tech industry. Her team’s work in sustainable technology was spotlighted in Microsoft’s 2024 Sustainability Report, showcasing their contribution to eco-friendly innovations. 

Again, her influence within the tech community was recognised globally when she was named a finalist for the Rising Star of the Year and the WomenTech Community Award at the Women in Tech Global Awards 2025.

Beyond engineering, Chisom authored A Techie’s Guide into Big Tech Companies, a must-read for aspiring software engineers aiming for roles in top international firms. Her digital presence, with over 140,000 followers across platforms, became a hub for tech insights, career advice, and job opportunities. She was also invited to over 40 tech events worldwide, speaking on topics such as data engineering, artificial intelligence, and gender inclusion in tech.

Chisom’s relatable content, shared via her growing YouTube channel and other platforms, coupled with her passion for lifting others, has placed her among the top women in tech doing great work. With her community-centric approach and technical expertise, she is undoubtedly one to watch in 2025.

[LinkedIn Page]

5. Chioma Ekeh

Mrs. Chioma Ekeh, the CEO of TD Africa, stands as a towering figure in technology distribution across Africa. In 2024, she continued to ensure initiatives that empowered women and young girls through programs like The Herwakening and Girls in ICT, promoting inclusivity in STEM fields. 

Under her leadership, TD Africa’s training program, TDAcademy, built participants with essential tech skills, reiterating her seamless focus on talent development.

Chioma’s journey from being one of the first Nigerian women to pursue a Mathematics degree in India to becoming a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Certified Accountants in the UK is totally inspiring. She co-founded the Zinox Group alongside her husband, Leo Stan Ekeh. Together, they built a tech empire, with TD Africa as a leader in ICT distribution, representing global brands like HP, Microsoft, and Cisco.

Her exceptional memory, analytical skills, and unrelenting drive for greatness have made her an icon in the Nigerian technology space. In 2024, she also celebrated TD Africa’s annual Celebrating You event, the biggest year-end tech gathering in Nigeria, and continued to mentor female entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts.

[LinkedIn Page]

6. Dr. Success Ojo

Dr. Success Ojo, co-founder and CEO of GMind AI, boosted artificial intelligence accessibility in 2024. Her platform, GMind AI 2.0, earned the Excellence in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning award at the Art of Technology Awards in Lagos. 

This accolade emphasised GMind AI’s impact on education, research, and business with innovative features like multilingual capabilities and Prompt Assist, designed to make AI user-friendly for diverse audiences.

Dr Ojo’s mission to enhance the use of AI has seen GMind AI bridge the “AI divide,” providing tools that empower teachers, creatives, and small businesses. With a focus on local language support and cost-effective solutions, she ensured the platform’s relevance across Nigeria and Africa. In 2024 alone, over 50,000 individuals benefited from GMind AI’s free training initiatives, and the company is on track to reach 100,000 by mid-2025.

Her work shows a commitment to leveraging AI for societal good, addressing challenges, and facilitating digital transformation. Recognised as one of our top women in tech to watch in 2025, Dr Ojo’s zeal to simplify AI adoption makes her a commendable leader in the industry.

[LinkedIn Page]

7. Adanne Anene

Adanne Anene’s career shows her exceptional intelligence in product management and her ability to drive changes within the fintech industry. With over a decade of experience, Adanne has held leadership roles at organizations, including Branch International, VFD Tech Limited, and United Bank for Africa (UBA). 

Her work, particularly in mobile banking and digital solutions, has changed the way financial products are designed and delivered, making them more accessible and user-centric.

In 2024, Adanne’s proficiency in product strategy and team leadership earned her recognition as a thought leader in the fintech sector. She has successfully designed products that balance practicality with innovation, ensuring that financial tools are both secure and efficient. 

Notable among her achievements was the redesign of UBA’s mobile app, which resulted in a significant revenue boost and improved user experience. Within just six months, UBA’s mobile app revenue increased from ₦180 million to over ₦1 billion, pointing to the huge impact of Adanne’s leadership in product management.

Adanne has also become a mentor to aspiring product managers, particularly within the fintech space. She regularly shares her insights on strategic planning, offering valuable advice on how to balance vision with execution.

Again, Adanne’s work at Branch International, where she led the launch of a digital wallet product in Kenya, was another huge achievement. This project transformed Branch into a full digital bank, enhancing financial inclusion and providing users with a comprehensive financial solution. 

As a product management professional, Adanne continues to ensure user-centred design, leveraging data and feedback to create products that align with real-world needs. With her vision and expertise, Adanne is among our top women in tech to watch in 2025.

[LinkedIn Page]

8. Iniobong Udoh

Iniobong Udoh is a name that stands out in the Nigerian tech space, not just for her personal achievements but for the impact she has made through her ventures.

As the founder of Tech Skills Hack (TSH), a non-profit organisation training Nigerians with digital skills, Udoh’s work embodies her vision to bridge the tech gap and ensure inclusion. 

Her journey from insurance to technology shows a person with resilience and determination to help individuals and small businesses, providing the tools they need to thrive.

In 2024, Udoh’s contributions received even more recognition, placing her as one of the top women in tech to watch in 2025. Under her leadership, TSH expanded its services, introducing personalised tech consultation sessions and launching its automated Tech Clarity Quiz, a tool designed to help individuals identify the best tech skills to pursue. 

The quiz, commended for its exceptional accuracy, became a game-changer for tech enthusiasts across Nigeria. By year-end, TSH had trained hundreds of individuals and SMEs on leveraging digital tools to enhance productivity and improve visibility, highly contributing to the growth of the tech sector in the country.

Udoh led multiple initiatives to demystify the misconception that tech is solely for coders, emphasising that digital skills such as graphic design, data analysis, and content creation are equally valuable. A certified Google Android Developer, UX Researcher, and Product Manager with over five years of experience, Udoh brought her expertise to bear in every facet of TSH’s operations. 

Beyond training individuals, she provided curated digital resources to bridge the skill gap between job seekers and employers, ensuring her mission to boost tech education was felt nationwide. This year, her team organised free offline training in Lagos and Uyo, in collaboration with international partners like Ghana’s iSpace and Akwa Ibom’s Directorate of Microfinance and Enterprise Development. 

Despite running TSH as a self-funded social enterprise, Udoh managed to achieve remarkable milestones in 2024. The platform, which operates primarily on free tools such as Facebook and Slack, served over 1,000 users, trained 257 students in underserved communities, and supported 30 SMEs by providing free logo and business card designs.

Her ability to sustain such impactful programs without external funding reiterates her resourcefulness and focus on social impact.

[LinkedIn Page]

9. Tinuade Oguntuyi

As an IT and Network Infrastructure leader, Tinuade Oguntuyi has done great in the technology sector, particularly in the design, deployment, and optimization of network solutions for over 30 telecom base stations across Nigeria. 

With more than 13 years of experience, Tinuade’s contributions have enhanced the infrastructure of Nigeria’s telecommunications sector, expanding connectivity to numerous cities and states. Her leadership in these initiatives has helped in delivering high-quality solutions to clients in diverse industries such as government, education, finance, healthcare, and oil and gas.

In 2024, Tinuade received multiple awards, including recognition as one of the 100 Leading Telecoms & Digital Economy Personalities in Nigeria by ATCON. She was also shortlisted as the Female Innovator of the Year at the AfricaTech Festival and received accolades such as National Broadband Promoter at the Titan of Tech Awards.

Tinuade has also been an advocate for STEM inclusion, particularly for girls and women, working tirelessly to bridge the digital divide. Her role as co-chair of the Internet Society’s Nigeria Chapter’s Infrastructure, Access, and Connectivity working group has further strengthened her standing as a leader in the global tech community. 

Again, her public speaking engagements at platforms like the Nigeria E-Government Summit, Tech Convergence, and the Titan of Tech Conference have allowed her to share her expertise and inspire the next generation of tech leaders.

Tinuade’s contributions in 2024, both in terms of her professional accomplishments and her impact on the tech community, have placed her among the top women in tech to watch in 2025.

[LinkedIn Page]

10. Iwalola Sobowale

Iwalola Sobowale, the head of Customer Experience (CX) Research at Moniepoint Group, has helped drive growth and customer retention through the power of data and user-centred design. 

With a Master’s degree in International Business Management and an Executive Education in Business Strategy from INSEAD, Iwalola combines her academic knowledge with practical experience to develop innovative digital products that meet the needs of Moniepoint’s diverse customer base.

In 2024, Iwalola led initiatives to implement user-centric strategies that improved product design and also enhanced customer engagement. This focus on customer satisfaction has been key to Moniepoint’s success in the competitive fintech market. Her work in UX design, user research, and product lifecycle management has contributed to the development of impactful solutions that address real-world problems for millions of users.

In addition to her role at Moniepoint, Iwalola is also a dedicated advocate for women in technology. Through her Spotlight Podcast, she has created a platform where she engages with industry experts and thought leaders to explore the intersections of business, technology, and innovation. This podcast has allowed her to reach a wider audience and share insights on topics such as product strategy and user research, further establishing her as a thought leader in the tech community.

Iwalola has spoken at various events, including the Women Techsters Open Day, where she shared her journey and helped other women pursue careers in tech.

Iwalola’s combination of expertise in customer experience, product research, and mentorship places her among the top women in tech to watch in 2025.

[LinkedIn Page]

11. Folake Owodunni

Folake Owodunni is an entrepreneur, co-founder and CEO of Emergency Response Africa (ERA), a healthcare technology company that is transforming emergency medical care in Nigeria and beyond. 

Her work in this space earned her the Global Aurora Tech Award in 2024, recognizing her tireless moves to improve emergency response times and save lives across the country.

ERA, under Folake’s leadership, has created a comprehensive system that integrates web and mobile applications, facilitating communication between first responders, hospitals, and command centres. This innovation has drastically reduced response times, ensuring individuals in medical emergencies receive timely care. 

ERA’s work has already gained attention, including a partnership with the Edo State government, aiming to improve public-sector emergency response and save lives in the region.

Beyond her technical achievements, Folake’s advocacy for healthcare innovation and mentorship has earned her accolades like the Rainer Arnhold Fellowship from the Mulago Foundation. Her passion for accessible healthcare stems from personal experiences and an early interest in improving healthcare systems in Africa. 

With a background in Global Health & Development and Business Entrepreneurship & Technology, Folake is dedicated to expanding ERA’s reach, working towards a future where emergency medical care is accessible to all Africans in less than 10 minutes.

Her pursuit of this mission, supported by strategic partnerships with both the public and private sectors, positions her as one of the top women in tech to watch in 2025.

[LinkedIn Page]

12. Ruby Igwe

As Country General Manager of ALX; Ruby Igwe is doing lots of great work in Africa’s tech sector. Under her guidance, ALX has become a successful, ten-time award-winning organization, recognized globally for empowering young people with in-demand tech skills and entrepreneurial opportunities. 

In 2024, she impacted over 145,000 unskilled youths in Nigeria, with 40% of them being women, training them with tech and entrepreneurial skills. This earned her multiple accolades, including the prestigious AOT Social Innovation Award and the Gage EdTech Award.

A trained lawyer and two-time author, Ruby’s experience spans over a decade in operations, people management, and project management within the media, development, and edtech sectors. She has a top spot in corporate vision development and enabling innovation within organizations. In addition to her role at ALX, Ruby co-founded Archivi.ng, a nonprofit preserving Nigeria’s history through the digital documentation of newspapers.

Through ALX, Ruby has introduced flagship programs like AI Career Essentials, which provide learners with essential AI tools to excel professionally. Looking forward, Ruby aims to empower three million ethical leaders across Africa in the next five years, stamping her place among the top women in tech to watch in 2025.

[LinkedIn Page]

13. Dara Olayebi

Dara Olayebi’s journey into tech is one the world must know about. A Software Engineer at Spotify, Dara’s career spans various sectors, including finance, media, and social impact. 

With over six years of experience, Dara has transitioned from a Frontend Engineer in finance to a full-stack developer, contributing to the creation of services that allow internal teams at Spotify to efficiently access user account data. Her work combines technical skills with creative flair, focusing on developing user-centric products that promote community and connection.

One of Dara’s key contributions in 2024 was her active involvement in mentorship and advocacy for women in tech. Despite the constant gender gap in the industry, Dara has worked tirelessly to support young women entering the field. 

Through initiatives like Black Girls In Tech and CodeCollabs, she has mentored over 20 women, guiding everything from coding skills to interview preparation. Her works have empowered many young women to scale through the challenges of the tech world and secure roles in competitive industries.

Dara’s mentorship is driven by her own experience in the tech industry, having had no mentor. She recognizes the value of having someone to guide and support you and strives to be that mentor for others. Her involvement in community engagement, including her role as a Web Development Instructor at BrainStation, allows her to share her knowledge with a wide audience, further impacting the tech industry.

Dara’s ability to balance her full-time role at Spotify with her teaching and community engagements shows how much she values both personal growth and empowering others.

In 2025, Dara will continue making waves in the tech industry as her contributions to software engineering, mentorship, and community engagement will undoubtedly encourage many more women to pursue careers in tech and become great in the industry.

[LinkedIn Page]

Owodunni made the remarks on Saturday, September 28, 2024 during a panel session at the 2024 Wetech Conference sponsored by inDrive.

She described her success at the last edition of the Aurora Tech Award as a product of resilience, signalling a turning point in her career.

While advising eligible women in tech to apply for the 2025 Aurora Tech Award, she maintained that the initiative remains the best platform to get the desired recognition and support.

The Tech Entrepreneur noted that her initiative, Emergency Response Africa,  aims to address the issue of inadequate response to emergencies in Africa by connecting ambulances and first responders to patients through technology.

The initiative, which has received tremendous acceptance from various state governments in Nigeria, continues to attract successful partnerships aimed at improving emergency response, such as transporting pregnant women in labor to hospitals.

According to her, the need for better emergency response systems motivated the set up of Emergency Response Africa. An inspiration she attributed to high-profile deaths and numerous unreported cases of death in Africa due to the knowledge gap on the part of the public during the period of emergencies.

The initiative, designed to confront issues such as public panic and misconceptions about emergency services, aims to improve emergency care by educating the public and ensuring timely and effective responses to medical emergencies.

In her remarks, the Acquisition Manager, inDrive Nigeria, Catherine Akindele speaking to the success of the Aurora Tech Award, said;

“The Aurora Tech Award was borne out of the need to foster fairness, inclusivity and empowerment of women in technology.”

Akindele stated that the award has received a significant number of applications from participants with innovative tech ideas, with only a few selected each year. Shedding more light on the company’s commitment to the awardees, she said, “Beyond the reward, we monitor the progress of participants by providing resources and guidance on how to grow their businesses.”

The Aurora Tech Award, now in its 5th edition, is structured to enable participants to learn from each other and gain inspiration from one another’s experiences.

Folake has a Master’s in Global Health & Development from University College London and a Master’s in Business Entrepreneurship & Technology (MBET) from the University of Waterloo in Ontario, Canada, and is certified as a First Responder with the Canadian Red Cross.

ERA connects individuals experiencing a medical emergency to the largest network of First Responders, ambulances, and hospitals through technology.

Since inception, ERA has managed over 4,500 incidents, reducing response times by 40%-80%, and helping to save lives. ERA partners with innovative governments such as the Edo state government to enhance medical emergency responsiveness in the public sector.

With over 15 years of experience in healthcare, marketing communications, and management consulting across Nigeria, the United States, and Canada, Folake has received numerous awards and recognitions for her work including the Aurora Tech Award, Google Black Founders Fund, JICA’s Next Innovation with Japan Award, and The Professor Grace Alele-Williams Alumni Impact Award by Women in Successful Career (WISCAR).

Folake Owodunni is a catalyst for positive change in the healthcare sector.

Excerpt: 

TE: What has your tech journey been like before winning the 2024 Aurora Tech Award?

Folake Owodunni: My tech journey has been a blend of passion, persistence, and a desire to solve real-world problems. Before winning the 2024 Aurora Tech Award, I had a background in public health, but my interest in technology grew as I saw its potential to address significant healthcare gaps in Africa.

My experience with Emergency Response Africa (ERA) has allowed me to merge my public health expertise with innovative technology to create a solution that addresses the urgent need for fast and reliable emergency medical services.

Getting to this point wasn’t easy. I had to navigate (and am still navigating) a variety of challenges, including funding constraints, regulatory hurdles, and building a reliable technology infrastructure. I learned to collaborate with a diverse team of experts, engage with stakeholders, and find creative ways to keep pushing forward despite setbacks.

Winning the Aurora Tech Award is a significant milestone, validating the hard work and dedication of our team. However, it’s also a reminder that there’s much more to do, and I’m excited to continue the journey with renewed energy and purpose.

TE: Tell us a little about Emergency Response Africa and how tech is enabling the delivery of sustainable and scalable emergency medical services in Africa.

Folake Owodunni: Emergency Response Africa (ERA) is a health tech company dedicated to transforming emergency medical services in Africa.

Our mission is to connect anyone experiencing a medical emergency to a vast network of first responders, ambulances, and hospitals, ensuring rapid and reliable medical care. Technology plays a central role in enabling us to deliver scalable and sustainable services.

We leverage mobile apps and a toll-free hotline to connect users with our network of community-based first responders. Our dispatch system ensures that the closest available responders and ambulances are deployed, significantly reducing response times.

Through real-time tracking and seamless communication, we can navigate logistical challenges and ensure patients receive timely care. ERA’s tech-driven approach also allows us to collect valuable data on emergency cases, which we use to improve our services and collaborate with stakeholders.

By analyzing this data, we can identify trends, optimize resource allocation, and continuously refine our processes. This approach not only makes our services more efficient but also contributes to broader public health objectives.

Our focus on scalability ensures that we can expand our reach across Africa. Partnerships with government agencies and private sector stakeholders enable us to integrate our technology into existing healthcare systems, creating a sustainable model for emergency medical services.

By embracing technology, ERA is making a lasting impact on healthcare delivery in Africa.

TE: How do you feel being the winner of this year’s Aurora Tech Award and what does it mean to you?

Folake Owodunni: Winning this year’s Aurora Tech Award is a great honour and a deeply meaningful recognition of the hard work, innovation, and dedication that have gone into building Emergency Response Africa.

This award validates the vision and mission that our team has pursued with passion and resilience. It’s a significant milestone that highlights our commitment to using technology to solve real-world problems and save lives.

Winning this award on International Women’s Day holds special significance for me, as it aligns with my longstanding involvement in women’s professional groups, both as a mentee and mentor.

It reaffirms the importance of acknowledging and supporting the remarkable contributions of women in the tech industry, and I look forward to more opportunities not only to be recognized but also to honour other women who are making significant strides in their fields.

Beyond personal satisfaction, this award provides ERA with a broader platform to share our story and reach a wider audience. It opens doors to new opportunities, partnerships, and resources that will enable us to expand our impact across Africa.

This recognition reinforces our belief in the transformative power of technology and strengthens our resolve to make a lasting difference in emergency medical services. I’m excited about the journey ahead and look forward to leveraging this recognition to further our mission.

TE: How do you intend to utilize the fund received as winner of the award?

Folake Owodunni: We will use the funds to advance key strategic goals. First, we’ll invest in AI, to optimize our dispatching and resource allocation. This will allow us to provide quicker and more efficient emergency responses.

Second, a portion of the funding will help expand our network of first responders through training programs, enhancing our service quality. Finally, part of the funding will support marketing and outreach to increase awareness and attract more partners, both in the corporate and government sectors.

The Aurora Tech Award funding is timely and will go a long way in helping us provide faster and more reliable emergency medical services across Africa.

TE: Africa as a continent is still largely underdeveloped. How well do you see your innovative ideas revolutionizing the continent’s health sector?

Folake Owodunni: Africa’s health sector has tremendous potential for innovation but also faces unique challenges that demand creative solutions. Emergency Response Africa (ERA) is dedicated to addressing critical gaps in emergency medical services through a multi-faceted approach.

Our technology-driven solutions connect individuals experiencing medical emergencies to a network of first responders, ambulances, and hospitals within minutes.

This approach is scalable and sustainable, allowing us to adapt to various regions across Africa. By training and deploying Community-Based First Responders (CBFRs), ERA ensures faster response times and improved health outcomes, empowering local populations to take an active role in healthcare access.

We also leverage public-private partnerships, collaborating with government agencies and private sector stakeholders to extend our reach into underserved communities. Our data-driven insights, collected through our technology platform, allow us to identify trends and optimize resource allocation, contributing to a more efficient healthcare system.

By focusing on these core elements, ERA aims to revolutionize Africa’s health sector, providing a sustainable framework for continuous improvement. As we expand, we hope to inspire others to adopt similar models, driving broader transformation across the continent.

TE: Going by some of the innovative ideas you have seen from women-led tech start-ups, do you think it’s time venture capitalists took a big risk on women in the tech space?

Folake Owodunni: It’s high time venture capitalists reframed their view of risk on women-led tech start-ups. These start-ups are proving to be innovative, resilient, and capable of addressing unique market needs. Women entrepreneurs bring diverse perspectives, which often lead to creative solutions and open doors to new markets.

By supporting women-led ventures, venture capitalists can tap into this diversity, which can foster innovation and potentially drive high returns on investment.

Investing in women-led start-ups also aligns with a broader social impact agenda. Many women entrepreneurs focus on solving real-world problems in sectors like healthcare, education, and sustainability, bringing positive change to their communities.

This focus on social impact can attract a growing base of customers and investors interested in purpose-driven businesses, adding further value to these ventures.

Moreover, supporting women-led tech start-ups contributes to closing the gender gap in the tech industry, fostering a more inclusive ecosystem.

This creates a virtuous cycle, encouraging more women to pursue entrepreneurship and tech careers, ultimately enriching the industry with a broader range of ideas and experiences.

For venture capitalists, the question is not about taking a bigger risk—it’s about recognizing the opportunity for growth, social impact, and a more balanced tech landscape. Now is the time to invest in women-led tech start-ups and be part of the change.

TE: The tech space being male-dominated, do you see the Aurora Tech award changing the narrative or breaking down the barriers, thereby drumming support for women-led tech start-ups going forward?

Folake Owodunni: By recognizing and celebrating the achievements of women in technology, the award highlights the significant contributions women are making in an industry where they have traditionally been underrepresented. This recognition helps challenge the stereotype that tech is a “man’s world” and demonstrates that women are not only capable of thriving in the tech space but are also leading innovation and driving change.

Being shortlisted as a finalist for the Aurora Tech Award provides visibility and credibility for women-led tech start-ups, opening doors to new opportunities for funding, partnerships, and mentorship. It creates a platform for women entrepreneurs to share their stories, inspire others, and build a supportive community.

Beyond the increased visibility, the cash prize places a clear value on the women’s enterprises and can help attract more investment and support for women-led ventures, signaling to venture capitalists and industry leaders that investing in women is both a smart business decision and a way to promote diversity and inclusion.

By celebrating women’s achievements, the award sends a powerful message to young women and girls that they can succeed in technology and that their contributions are valued.

This can lead to a ripple effect, inspiring the next generation of women to enter the tech industry and ultimately contributing to a more balanced and inclusive tech ecosystem. As the narrative shifts, it’s likely that the support for women-led tech start-ups will grow, creating a more diverse and equitable technology landscape.

TE: There have been several arguments that most women tech start-ups do not meet the required criteria. This, according to many people, underscores the reason for the funding challenge thereby dismissing the widely held belief that it is more about discrimination than any other reason. Do you agree with this assertion? If yes, how best do you think this can be handled based on your understanding? 

Folake Owodunni: I disagree with the assertion that most women-led tech start-ups do not meet the required criteria for funding, suggesting that the funding challenge is more about merit than discrimination. The reality is that systemic biases and barriers disproportionately impact women entrepreneurs, often leading to uneven evaluation and less access to resources.

There is independent research that shows that unconscious bias plays a significant role in this disparity, with women often facing more risk-focused questions and scrutiny, even when their business metrics are similar to those of their male counterparts.

Moreover, the tech industry’s male-dominated landscape contributes to the funding gap. With fewer women in decision-making roles, there’s a lack of representation that can perpetuate a cycle of exclusion.

This lack of representation leads to fewer networking opportunities, mentorship, and sponsorship for women entrepreneurs, impacting their ability to secure funding. Women-led start-ups also often receive smaller funding rounds compared to male-led counterparts, limiting their growth potential.

To address these challenges, several steps can be taken to create a more equitable environment for women entrepreneurs. Venture capital firms and investors should focus on conscious awareness and undergo training to identify and mitigate unconscious biases.

Building diverse investment teams can offer a broader range of perspectives and reduce bias.

Additionally, mentorship and sponsorship programs for women-led start-ups can provide crucial support. By offering equal funding opportunities and committing to fair evaluation practices, the tech industry can break down the barriers that women entrepreneurs face and create a more inclusive ecosystem that values and supports their contributions.

TE: As the Aurora Tech award winner, what are the key nuggets of success you would like to share with aspiring women tech start-ups going by your experience?

Folake Owodunni: Resilience is key on the entrepreneurial journey. Obstacles and setbacks are inevitable, but successful entrepreneurs learn from them and keep moving forward. The fact that we previously applied and were shortlisted but did not win, and then applied again before being selected as the winner is a reminder to try again.

Second, embrace your unique perspective. Your experiences and viewpoint are valuable assets that can drive innovation and solve problems that might have been overlooked.

Don’t be afraid to bring your full self to the table. Building a strong support network is equally crucial; mentors, advisors, and peers can guide you, open doors, and provide encouragement during challenging times.

Be strategic in fundraising by targeting investors who align with your business values and are committed to supporting women-led ventures. Finally, focus on the social impact of your start-up, as this can attract support from investors interested in making a difference. Believe in your vision, stay true to your mission, and you’ll find that others will be drawn to your passion and drive.

TE: Innovation remains a major driver of development in different economies across the world. Do you see women-led tech start-ups taking center stage and being responsible for the growth the world desires in the not-too-distant future?

Folake Owodunni: Absolutely. Women-led tech startups are poised to take center stage in driving the growth and innovation the world needs.

These startups bring fresh perspectives and a diverse range of skills, leading to unique solutions that address a wider array of challenges. As more women break through traditional barriers and receive support from expanding networks, we’re witnessing a surge in successful women-led ventures across multiple industries.

Research has consistently shown that diversity in leadership, particularly in tech, results in better performance and more innovative outcomes.

When women are given the opportunity to lead, they create inclusive solutions that resonate with a broader audience. This not only boosts economic growth but also contributes to a more equitable and dynamic tech ecosystem.

Although challenges persist, such as gaining access to funding and overcoming gender biases, the trajectory is clear: women-led tech startups are gaining momentum.

With increased focus on supporting women entrepreneurs and recognizing their achievements, they are well-positioned to drive significant growth and innovation in the not-too-distant future.

The announcement of Owodunni’s triumph coincided with the celebration of International Women’s Day.

Emergency Response Africa is dedicated to making healthcare accessible in Africa. This innovative solution provides sustainable and scalable emergency medical services, addressing critical needs in the region

Speaking on the significance of Owodunni’s achievement, Head of Aurora Tech Award, Ekaterina Smirnova remarked that the recognition is a constant reminder of the pivotal role of women in bringing about change and innovation.

“We celebrate the remarkable achievements of Folake Owodunni, Hannah Töpler, and Sarah Phiri-Molema. Their groundbreaking startups not only address critical needs in their communities but also serve as local role models, inspiring change and fostering innovation. These awards play a vital role in providing much-needed recognition to women in the tech industry, amplifying their contributions, and paving the way for greater gender equality and diversity in innovation,” Smirnova said.

The Aurora Tech Award 2024, founded in 2020 by inDrive, a US-based global mobility and urban services platform, received an unprecedented 694 applications from 102 countries this year, underscoring the global impact of women in technology and innovation.

In addition to the prestigious recognition, the winners of the Aurora Tech Award 2024 will receive cash prizes of $30,000, $20,000, and $10,000 for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, respectively, along with access to an inDrive mentorship program.

Folake Owodunni’s triumph at the Aurora Tech Award 2024 serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring women entrepreneurs worldwide, highlighting the transformative power of innovation and determination in driving positive change.

About Aurora Tech Award project

• Aurora Tech Award is a non-profit initiative of inDrive, a global mobility and urban services platform. The Aurora Tech Award is an award for women tech startup founders whose projects have had a profound impact on global development.
• The objective is to support women entrepreneurs and fight gender bias in venture capital.
• inDrive is a global mobility and urban services platform. The inDrive app has been downloaded over 200 million times, and was the second most downloaded mobility app in 2023.
• In addition to ride-hailing, inDrive provides an expanding list of urban services, including intercity transportation, freight delivery, task assistance and courier delivery. In 2023, inDrive launched New Ventures, a venture and M&A arm.
• inDrive operates in over 700 cities in 46 countries. Driven by its mission of challenging social injustice, the company is committed to having a positive impact on the lives of one billion people by 2030.
• It pursues this goal both through its core business, which supports local communities via a fair pricing model; and through the work of inVision, its non-profit arm.
• inVision’s community empowerment programs help to advance education, sports, arts and sciences, gender equality and other vital initiatives.

This strategic partnership follows the success of the Global Startup Awards Africa Finale held in Addis Ababa in October 2023, a historic milestone in the entrepreneurial journey of Ethiopia that convened innovation leaders and startups from across Africa and the world.

Recognising their shared commitment to fostering innovation in Africa, the partnership between GIIG has been expanded to focus on supporting Ethiopia as a rising Startup Nation.

The Ethiopian Ministry of Labour and Skills (MoLS) alongside the Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI) will be leading this progressive partnership as a key intervention to implement the strategic innovation goals of Ethiopia.

As the lead partners to GSA Africa 2024, the partnership will seek to convene and accelerate collaborations that tangibly build local innovation economies, transfer future-fit skills to citizens, and inspire globally competitive businesses.

Muferihat Kamil, Minister of Labour and Skills commenting on the partnership, stated,

“As part of the NEST initiative, we are committed to building a long-term partnership with GIIG and the Global Startup Awards Africa. It is absolutely critical that the startup ecosystem in Ethiopia becomes a leading agenda for the nation. We need to build our economies not to imitate but to lead as Africans and initiatives with GIIG will play a significant role in enabling this.”

Alongside the announcement, the 2024 Global Startup Awards Africa was officially opened.

The collaboration with MoLS, MInT and EDI and underscores an intentional alliance aimed at accelerating the startup ecosystem in Ethiopia to the forefront of the nation’s agenda and positioning Ethiopia as a key startup hub in the continent, leveraging its status as home to the African Union.

Entries for the third season of the competition are open to African startups and innovation enablers to apply.

The GSA Africa platform offers not only global visibility for African startups but also presents investment opportunities through the GIIG Africa Fund.

With a focus on solutions aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the competition aims to practically address issues such as climate change.

Dr Belete Molla Getahun, Minister of Innovation and Technology, shared, “It is extremely necessary to support entrepreneurship and startups with a sense of urgency and purpose. This partnership is about building a community of disrupters ready to make its mark on the global startup ecosystem.”

Dr Hassan Hussein, CEO of EDI noted,

“EDI and GIIG have a shared purpose to discover, iterate and scale solutions that deliver impact for some of the world’s most stubborn challenges with a mission to create a vibrant, resilient, and authentically Ethiopian entrepreneurial innovation ecosystem. As partners, we can lead with a greater sense of urgency, to help communities and organizations adopt change faster for rapid transformation.”

The 2024 GSA Africa edition targets SDG-aligned solutions in agriculture, climate, commerce, healthcare, mobility, logistics, women in tech, and youth, among others.

Notably, the competition seeks startups championing frontier technologies, with a particular interest in Africa’s projected $6.9 billion AI market in 2024.

Jo Griffiths, co-founder of GIIG, emphasized the platform’s role in showcasing talent across all 54 African countries, stating,

“The solutions we are finding have the capability and global relevance to solve some of the world’s most critical challenges evidenced by the success of our previous winners.” Through our partnership with MoLS and EDI, we will continue to provide a continental convening platform with the goal of generating collective influence on the global development agenda which will enable a fast track acceleration to popularize innovation in Ethiopia so that it can assume its rightful status in Africa and the world.”

Winners will progress through national and regional levels before gathering at the GSA Africa Summit in Addis Ababa in October 2024.

The summit provides a unique opportunity for innovators to convene, connect, and celebrate Africa’s most innovative minds.

“The GSA summit 2023 was a chance to meet potential partners, public and private, and investors to advance our journey”, commented Folake Owodunni, Co-Founder Emergency Response Africa winner of the 2023 Health Tech category, whilst Ahren Posthumus, Founder of Momint and winner of the Web 3 category 2023 said, “Events like the GSA summit are vital for fostering collaboration and business growth across borders in Africa.”

Kim Balle, co-founder and CEO of GSA Global, added,

“In addition to investment, networking, and mentorship, our startup winners will be invited to the Global Grand Final Days. This prestigious series of events offers a unique platform for engaging with potential partners from diverse global innovation ecosystems.”

Participation

Applications for the 2024 GSA Africa are now open.