Shaunei Gerber, Head of Digital, Media, and Product at Futurelect, is a digital marketing professional with over 15 years of experience in the tech industry. A passionate innovator, Shaunei has led the design and launch of the Futurelect learning app, a civic education tool empowering users to engage in democratic processes. She also spearheaded Futurelect’s digital strategy, enhancing civic engagement across South Africa. Shaunei's leadership and commitment to leveraging technology for social good have made her a role model for aspiring female leaders in tech, making her a strong contender for the Female Innovator of the Year award.

Serisha Barrat is a pioneering tech entrepreneur and CEO of Lawyered Up, an AI-driven platform providing affordable legal access for SMEs and startups. She also leads Boardroom App, which verifies users through LinkedIn to revolutionize professional networking and online dating. Beyond her ventures, Serisha is committed to social justice through her non-profit, Arts of Charity, which tackles issues like gender-based violence and environmental conservation. A mentor to SMEs and women across Africa, Serisha has received numerous accolades, including being named one of Africa's top 100 influential entrepreneurs. Her dedication to innovation and community impact makes her a deserving candidate for recognition.

Miranda is a seasoned leader in the payments industry with over a decade of experience. She has held key roles at Tutuka, Paymentology, and VISA, driving new business and market development across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Now the co-founder and CEO of SCALE, Miranda continues to shape the fintech landscape while mentoring young talent at Plug and Play Tech Center. Her journey from Executive Assistant to CEO exemplifies resilience and leadership. Additionally, her commitment to empowering women and giving back through organizations like Women's Arise and Tears Foundation highlights her dedication to social impact.

Toyosi Odukoya is a transformational leader with nearly 20 years of experience in driving strategic and impactful initiatives across Telecommunications, FMCG, and Nonprofit sectors. Currently serving as Senior Director at the Mastercard Foundation, she has led key programs in data governance and business intelligence across Africa and Canada, significantly enhancing operational efficiency and impact. Her leadership roles at Coca-Cola and MTN Nigeria saw her spearheading digital transformation and business intelligence initiatives, driving revenue growth and optimizing performance.

Toyosi is a passionate advocate for women and youth empowerment, serving as a board member of WAAW Foundation and mentor at WIMBIZ and Leading Ladies Africa. Her contributions to advancing women in STEM and data analytics, coupled with her speaking engagements and numerous awards—including Top 100 Most Inspirational Nigerian Women and Most Influential Woman in Data—underscore her influence.

Sayuri Moodliar is a sustainability expert and infrastructure project finance lawyer with over 25 years of experience across Sub-Saharan Africa and globally. With a PhD in International Business and Environmental Governance, Sayuri has led innovative ESG initiatives, including structuring sustainability-linked loans to promote energy efficiency. As a director in PwC’s sustainability strategy division, she has made significant strides in sustainable finance and energy infrastructure.

Sayuri is a thought leader in the tech industry, advocating for the use of AI and smart technologies to achieve sustainability goals. Her influence extends to mentoring women in tech and renewable energy through programs like Energising Women to Advance the Energy Transition. Her leadership in promoting sustainability, gender equity, and innovation makes her a deserving candidate for the Female Innovator of the Year award.

The female innovator must demonstrate exceptional leadership and a clear vision for advancing technology, media, or telecommunications, inspiring others through her work and achievements.

The individual's contributions should have a significant and positive impact on businesses, communities, or the broader industry, with measurable outcomes and widespread influence.

The awardee should actively engage in mentorship and advocacy, supporting the growth and development of other women in tech, media, or telecoms, and promoting diversity and inclusion.