Accra’s Global Entrepreneurship Festival (GEF) closed its 2025 edition with a new wave of entrepreneurs publicly documenting their awards and participation, signalling the event’s growing visibility across Africa’s business landscape.
Ghana-based energy entrepreneur Joshua Narh announced his recognition shortly after the gala evening, stating: “I am deeply honored to share that I have been awarded the Global Recognition Award 2025, as an Industry Change Maker in Oil, Gas, and Energy at this year’s Global Entrepreneurship Festival in Accra, Ghana.” His message, posted to Instagram, framed the honour as part of a broader commitment to shaping Africa’s energy future.
South African franchise leader Legend Sheldon, founder of a barbershop network now operating 78 stores and employing more than 700 people, likewise confirmed his attendance. “From cutting hair on the streets of Johannesburg to 78 stores, 700 jobs, and a growing footprint across Africa. This past weekend I was honoured to receive the Global Social Entrepreneurship Award at Global Entrepreneurship Festival in Accra, Ghana,” he wrote on Instagram on 25 November. His statement aligns with GEF’s positioning as a platform for scaling African SMEs and highlighting cross-border industry growth.
The festival’s visibility was further amplified by creative professionals documenting the event’s gala and red-carpet activities. Photographer Cupid Shot It, whose images have become central to GEF’s digital footprint, noted: “From the red carpet to the spotlight, these awardees embody innovation, excellence, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. Grateful for the opportunity to capture such iconic moments at the Global Entrepreneurship Festival,” he posted on Instagram.
GEF markets itself as a continental gathering for founders, investors and policymakers, hosting curated exhibitions and an awards programme intended to elevate entrepreneurship case studies across Africa. While the festival’s broader economic impact remains an area requiring deeper independent evaluation, the 2025 ceremony drew multiple sector leaders who used their platforms to affirm participation and recognition.
The increasing number of public declarations from awardees suggests that the festival — still developing its institutional identity — is becoming a reference point for entrepreneurs seeking continental visibility. The challenge ahead rests in strengthening transparency, documenting measurable outcomes, and ensuring that the recognition awarded reflects verifiable contributions to Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
