Liberian entrepreneur and media personality LeAnn Knowlden has been honored in three African countries this year. She was named among Africa’s Top 100 Female Leaders 2026 by the SOWA Awards in Zimbabwe, Iconic Woman of the Year 2026 in Business Leadership and Social Impact by Iconic Africa in Tanzania, and listed among the 100 Most Influential Africans in Infrastructure 2026 in Ghana. These recognitions highlight her achievements in women’s leadership, business and social impact, and infrastructure.
Knowlden's interest in media began at a young age. At 14, she founded The Jaguar’s Journal, a student newspaper at her school in Liberia. The paper's success led to a meeting with then-Vice President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, who later became President in 2023. Knowlden had initially hoped to meet the President but instead met Boakai and sold him two copies of the paper. This early start in media laid the foundation for her future endeavors.
Knowlden's trip to Zimbabwe for the SOWA Awards also advanced her cultural storytelling project, Africa by Africans. The visit resulted in her first hospitality partnership in Southern Africa with Victoria Falls Safari Lodge. This project promotes the idea that Africans should travel within the continent, support African businesses, and tell their own stories rather than relying on external accounts.
The recognition in Tanzania highlighted Knowlden's social impact work. She helped promote a fundraising campaign for Tilnette Woods, a young Liberian woman who needed hip surgery. The campaign successfully met its goal, and Woods has since undergone the surgery and is recovering. This effort demonstrates Knowlden's commitment to making a positive impact in her community.
In Ghana, Knowlden was recognized for her work in infrastructure, which she describes as extending beyond roads and buildings to include systems, partnerships, platforms, and businesses that provide access to economic opportunities. Through her company, Top Agency, she has worked in communications, events, brand strategy, cultural programming, and entrepreneurship.
Knowlden's work spans multiple sectors, including business, tourism, media, and community building. She hosts television programming and runs Planet LeAnn, a cultural storytelling platform. Her goal is to connect people, brands, and opportunities across Africa. With these recognitions, Knowlden has gained continental attention for her achievements and contributions.
The honors received by Knowlden cover different areas, including women’s leadership, business and social impact, and infrastructure. These recognitions reflect her hard work and dedication to making a positive impact in Africa. As a prominent Liberian entrepreneur and media personality, Knowlden continues to inspire others with her accomplishments and commitment to African development.
Key points
- LeAnn Knowlden was recognized in three African countries for her leadership and impact.
- Knowlden's work spans multiple sectors, including business, tourism, media, and community building.
- Her goal is to connect people, brands, and opportunities across Africa.
