Twelve inspiring South Africans earned their spot on the Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 list, and we couldn’t be prouder!
South Africa (06 June 2025) – They are visionaries, builders, and boundary-breakers! These young South Africans are carving out new paths in a country that needs their courage, creativity, and commitment more than ever. In a time when uncertainty often clouds the national mood, these under-30s offer something powerful: hope. Hope for smarter systems, stronger communities, and a future shaped by those who dare to dream differently. The 2025 Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 list shines a spotlight on the next generation of changemakers and this year, South Africa is brimming with stars who are not just imagining a better future, but actively building it.
The 2025 Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 list has once again turned its spotlight on the continent’s brightest under-30s. These young minds are the dreamers and doers who are shaping Africa’s tomorrow. And this year, a standout group of South Africans are flying the flag high, proving that youth is not wasted on the young; it’s powered by purpose.
From groundbreaking tech founders to chart-topping amapiano stars, these homegrown heroes are not just building businesses and brands; they’re building a legacy.
For Avian Bell (29), CEO of Quantumed, the honour isn’t just about personal acclaim. He shared with Good Things Guy how earning a spot on the list is a testament to the work being done by his entire team!
“This recognition is not just a personal milestone, but a testament to the incredible work our team is doing to make healthcare more inclusive and impactful across the continent,” he says. “We believe that education is the first step toward empowerment, and we’re committed to continuing our mission of transforming lives through knowledge and genuine care in the personal healthcare space.”
On the sports front, 23-year-old flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, now proudly wearing both DHL Stormers and Springbok green, reflects on a life shaped by the game in his FORBES Africa interview for the print edition of the list.
“My love for rugby was probably sparked by my environment,” he explains, smiling. “I grew up in a rugby environment in the southern suburbs [in South Africa]–no football, no cricket. My brother was a foreign rugby player. My dad was a sportsman. Rugby was the first thing I put my hands on, and I loved it ever since.”
Sacha and Avian are joined by ten other inspiring South Africans, all of whom are forging a way forward in South Africa and becoming champions within their respective fields.
- Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (23) – Sports – Flyhalf, Western Cape’s DHL Stormers and the Springboks.
- Mas’ooda Varachia (28) – Technology – Founder and Chief Executive Officer, USS Raven (also known as Raven Technologies).
- Bradley Max Segal (28) – Technology – Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer, Engage Mx.
- Avian Bell (29) – Healthcare – Chief Executive Officer, Quantumed.
- Candice Chirwa (29) – Education – Founder and Director of Qrate.
- Chae Francis (29) – Media/Marketing – Co-Founder, Ace Labs.
- Elaine Ndivhuwo Mukheli (26) – Entertainment and Music – Singer/Songwriter.
- Johnny Malepa (25) – Entertainment and Music – Founder and Creative Director, Malepa Agency.
- Maambele Khosa (29) – Transport and Mobility – Founder and CEO, SheCab; Head of Science Research Communication at Stellenbosch University’s Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI).
- Paballo Basetsana Mothapo- Pabi Cooper (24) – Entertainment and Music – Amapiano Artist.
- Thabang Sizwe Zulu (28) – Gaming – Founder, Lead Developer and Chief Executive Officer, Glitch Portal.
- Wisani Hlangwane (27) – HRTech – Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Funti3r.
For the full list of winners for 2025, you can check out the list here.
by 