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| Shakemore Timburwa far left with other finalists gracing the cover |
Forbes Africa released the 2021 Africa 30 Under 30 list, as a special June/July issue including two Zimbabweans namely Shakemore Timburwa, founder of Energy Plus and Tendai Kevin Zhou popularly known as Kevin The Wedding Planner of VIP Hosting.
Forbes Africa made a call for nominations last February, for the 7th annual 30 Under 30 Class Of 2021, a list of 30 Under 30s who survived and thrived during one of the most turbulent times recorded: the global COVID-19 pandemic.
The judging took process in four stages in the following order;
Popularly known as Kevin The Wedding Planner, he is famous for executing some of the top elite weddings in Zimbabwe with over 50 Weddings in his portfolio including bespoke Indian weddings and prestigious state affiliated events. He previously sang for ZimPraise choral group and worked as a Chef. He holds qualifications in clothing design and technology as well as interior design.
- Evaluation of nominee's motivation.
- Submission of documentation for assessment.
- Analysis of financials, revenue model and credibility.
- Assessment of the candidates by an expert panel of judges, whittling them down to the final 30.
Briefly, here is what we know about the two Zimbabweans who made it to the final list of 30:
Shakemore Timburwa, Founder of Energy Plus
A serial entrepreneur with immense interests in fields like alternative energy, manufacturing, mining, and real estate. He is the founder of Energy Plus, a leading integrated energy company specializing in ‘Liquified Petroleum Gas installations and distribution, and solar electric design and installation in and around Zimbabwe[New Edition] Members of this year’s list of under 30s have one thing in common: A New Covid-Induced Agenda for Social Change. Celebrating 7 years of the FORBES AFRICA 30 UNDER 30, these achievers prove that now more than ever, they are crucial to the African growth story! pic.twitter.com/ufbdAmbpFU
— Forbes Africa (@forbesafrica) June 1, 2021
Below is the complete list for Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 list for 2021(in no particular order):
Cleo Johnson, South Africa, founder and director of NUECLEO
Timilehin Bello, Nigeria, CEO and founder of Media Panache
Lebohang Moeletsi Phadi, South Africa, CEO of Basadi Logistics
Sepenica Darko, Ghana, founder of FarmerTribe Company
Deborah Mutwemwa, Zambia – South Africa, founder and CEO Tsumbo Scott Incorporated
Bontle Tshole, South Africa, CEO and founder of BAAA Health
Brian Kakembo, Uganda, founder, and CEO of Weye Clean Energy Co. Ltd
Hertzy Kabeya, DRC – South Africa, founder and CEO of The Student Hub
Temidayo Oniosun, Nigeria, founder of Space in Africa
Felix Byaruhanga, Uganda, founder of Skyline media and Management LTD
Harrykrishna Niadassen Poonoosamy Padiachy, Mauritius, founder of NKH Energy
Shakemore Timburwa, Zimbabwe, founder of Energy Plus
Mihlali Ndamase, South Africa, creative and digital influencer
Amarachi Nwosu, Nigerian self-taught visual artist, storyteller, and CEO of Melanin Unscripted
Divine Ikubor (also known as Rema), Nigeria, musician
Reinhard Mahalie, Namibia, fashion stylist and founder of RM Fashion Styling
Tendai Kevin Zhou, Zimbabwe, founder of VP Hostings
Kabelo Motha (also known as Kabza De Small), South Africa, producer and DJ
Kgaogelo Moagi (also known as Master KG), South Africa, music artist and producer
Ifan Ifeanyi Michael, Nigeria, Creative artist and filmmaker
Li-Chi Pan, South Africa, art director and digital influencer; founder of Li Chi Pan Studios
Hayze Engola, Malawi, musician, creative, and founder of KNQR Investments
Wale Lawal, Nigeria, founder and editor-in-chief of The Republic
Tilka Paljk, Zambia, swimmer
Lukhanyo Am, South Africa, rugby player
James Kang’aru MwangI, Kenya, founder and CEO of Epitome School of Chess
Julio “Beast” Bianchi, South Africa, e-gamer, FIFA Player
Cheslin Kolbe, South Africa, rugby player
Thabo Moloi, South Africa, e-gamer, FIFA Player
Antonio Depina, Cape Verde, founder, Overseas Basketball Connection, Praia League
In previous years, the list has featured names such as Mr. Eazi, Lloyd Harris, Siya Kolisi, Sho Madjozi, Bruce Diale, Karabo Poppy, Thuso Mbedu, Nomzamo Mbatha, Burna Boy, Nthabiseng Mosia, Davido, Shamim Nabuuma Kaliisa, Nasty C and WizKid.