Irawo, a leading African organization, has unveiled a list of 37 high-performing African talents who are making significant contributions to the continent's most competitive companies. The list was released to mark Irawo's 10th anniversary, and it highlights the achievements of individuals who have demonstrated exceptional skills and dedication in their respective fields. These talents have been instrumental in driving growth and innovation in various sectors, including energy and fintech.
According to a report by the Institut Choiseul, the lack of qualified profiles in Africa affects the competitiveness of two out of three companies. Despite this challenge, Irawo's list showcases the potential of African talents and provides insights into the factors that contribute to their success. The report also notes that over 10 million new graduates enter the job market every year, but only three million formal jobs are created, resulting in a significant skills gap.
The Irawo list highlights several key factors that have contributed to the success of these high-performing talents. One of the key takeaways is the ability to learn and unlearn, as exemplified by Kiyani Bamba, who transitioned from chemical engineering to product management. Another important factor is the ability to take initiative and demonstrate agency, with nearly 30% of the listed talents taking parallel initiatives to showcase their expertise and progress in their careers.
The list also emphasizes the importance of experience and mentorship in the development of these talents. Many of the listed individuals have spent over two years working in a company or sector, allowing them to develop a deep understanding of the industry and progress in their careers. Additionally, over half of the talents mention the importance of mentorship and training in their development, highlighting the need for support and guidance in achieving success.
The Irawo list also highlights the significance of soft skills, such as communication, strategic decision-making, and emotional intelligence, in achieving excellence. These talents have demonstrated the ability to lead effectively and push others to excel, and have also mastered the codes of power in multicultural environments. The list showcases the achievements of individuals who have made significant contributions to their organizations and the continent.
The release of the Irawo list comes at a critical time, as Africa faces a skills crisis and the emergence of artificial intelligence accelerates the obsolescence of skills. The list provides insights into the factors that contribute to the success of African talents and offers a framework for developing the next generation of leaders. As Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of Singapore, noted, the key is to provide individuals with opportunities to excel and grow, according to their interests and abilities.
The Irawo list is a testament to the potential of African talents and provides a valuable resource for organizations and individuals seeking to develop the next generation of leaders. By highlighting the achievements of high-performing talents and the factors that contribute to their success, Irawo aims to inspire and support the development of African talents and drive growth and innovation on the continent.
Key points
- Ability to learn and unlearn
- Agentivity and proactivity
- Experience and mentorship
