Nigerian social entrepreneur, Francesca Uriri, and pioneer founder, Heels and Tech, Bisola Alabi, are among the women from 15 African countries that have been nominated for this year’s Donors for Africa, African Women in Development awards.

The award recognises outstanding African women activists, change-makers, government representatives, and social innovators, who are transforming lives in their communities and countries, helping to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

According to the organisers, more than 700 entries from 20 African countries were received after the call for nominations was made.

The finalists were selected following rigorous research and selection process, by the selection committee, which included government representatives, development experts, and women leaders from Africa.

Chidi Koldsweat, Chief Executive Officer of Donors for Africa Foundation, stated that the recognition is aimed at documenting stories of African women leading change across the continent, adding that, women deliver a vast range of impressive innovations every day. Much of what they do may go unnoticed or are taken for granted, and are largely undocumented.

The organisation is inspired to document their journey and work together to advance development on the continent.