The 25 African Creatives To Follow In 2025: Part 4

AFI Insider

The world’s gaze is firmly on Africa, thanks to the youthful energy on the continent, which is a sign of major untapped potential. With a young population driving innovation, the growth prospects are immense—particularly in the creative sector, where talent in film, fashion, art, music, and entertainment is making global headlines. The creative industry is slowly proving to be a powerful contributor to the GDP of African nations.

Valued at approximately $58.4 billion, Africa’s creative economy represents 2.9% of the global creative market, according to the UNDP. While this figure may seem modest, the potential for expansion is there. 

A report by Adams & Adams estimates the industry currently generates $4.2 billion annually. It is also projected that by 2030, Africa will account for 10% of global creative exports, valued at $200 billion, while creating over 20 million new jobs.

In an era where creativity and culture converge to reshape global narratives, a new generation of African visionaries is emerging.

From fashion and film to media and sustainability, these innovators are rewriting the rules and perceptions, telling stories that showcase Africa's creative industries and captivating audiences with their unique voices and compelling stories.

This is the fourth and final part of the series documenting The 25 African Creatives To Follow In 2025. Read Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3.  

Phupho Gumede 

The South African stylist has already left an undeniable mark on African fashion. A two-time Africa Choice Awards winner for 'Stylist of the Year' and a Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 honouree, Phupho's styling has been instrumental in shaping the aesthetics of Netflix’s hit series Young, Famous & African, where he holds the distinction of being the youngest-ever Head of Wardrobe.

His collaborations with African heavyweights like Diamond Platnumz, 2Face Idibia, and Khanyi Mbau underscore his talent and influence, transcending borders and generations. His continued success has seen him evolve into the fashion retail business, albeit as the founder of a fashion rental company. 

Temi Otedola

Temi Otedola is the quintessential modern African woman—actress, digital brand ambassador, and fashion influencer. Despite being the daughter of business mogul Femi Otedola, Temi has carved her path, showcasing her depth as an actress in the well-received 2020 film Citation.

Her appointment as L’Oréal Paris Makeup’s first Digital Brand Ambassador for Sub-Saharan Africa solidified her status as a bankable brand.  With an impeccable eye for style and a voice that resonates with millions, Temi embodies a new era of African women who balance elegance with resilience.

Yemi Lawal

 

Yemi Lawal is the go-to expert for luxury brands seeking to navigate the complex landscape of fashion tech and digital transformation. A data engineer turned luxury C-suite consultant, Yemi has worked with industry titans such as Burberry, Tom Ford, Harrods, La Mer, and Estée Lauder.

Through his business TFK, he provides insider intelligence on luxury markets, helping hedge funds and billion-dollar brands make data-driven decisions. His deep understanding of AI, e-commerce, and consumer behaviour makes him one of the most sought-after minds in the luxury industry. 

And few would ever know he played rugby for Nigeria!

Manasseh Nyagah

The Kenyan star, currently based in Johannesburg, is one of the young talents to watch. While many may know him for being a social media influencer, he is also an award-nominated actor, TV presenter, and content creator.

He has built a reputation for delivering compelling narratives across multiple platforms and bridges cultural gaps through creating content that resonates with diverse audiences.

Whether he's presenting, acting, or curating digital content, his passion for storytelling and entertainment makes him a name to know in Africa’s growing media landscape.

Tinuke Eboka

The South African-Nigerian creative is a multidisciplinary powerhouse—DJ, designer, digital content creator, and creative director.  With degrees from the University of Cape Town and Polimoda in Italy, she has successfully fused her academic expertise with street-level innovation.

Her latest venture, Akobe is a streetwear brand that merges cultural narratives with contemporary design. Having worked with Vogue, Glamour Magazine, and Africa Fashion International, Tinuke has already made a mark in the industry. Now, she’s ready to push boundaries even further. 

Thobeka Mbane 

Thobeka Mbane is one of the most exciting stylists in South Africa. Dubbed an African Fashion Cultural Strategist, she has styled leading ladies such as Zozibini Tunzi, Elsa Majimbo, Nomzamo Mbatha, and Sabrina Elba.

More importantly, her styling work has graced the pages of Vogue Portugal, GQ South Africa, and she has led the styling on Bonang Matheba's Steve Madden campaign, showcasing her versatility and influence.

Whether styling music videos, high-fashion editorials, or collaborating with global brands like Nike and Chivas Regal, Thobeka makes sure she showcases modern African storytelling through fashion.