At this year’s International Youth Day celebration, the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Network awarded Oluwafunke Kofoworade the prestigious title of "Next-Generation Talent in Digital Tech Product Management" in recognition of her outstanding impact in Africa’s fast-evolving digital economy.   The award was presented during a high-level YALI event held on August 24, 2022, themed “Intergenerational Solidarity: Creating a World for All Ages.”   Kofoworade, a rising star in product innovation, was celebrated for leading the development of BizFlex Africa, a tech-powered platform launched by FastaMoni Technologies to help businesses across Africa access digital finance and automate operations.   “We are proud to recognize Oluwafunke’s leadership in designing and launching scalable, human-centered digital products that meet the real needs of African entrepreneurs,” said one of the award organisers. “She exemplifies the spirit of innovation and youth empowerment that YALI stands for.”   Since its launch, BizFlex Africa has recorded impressive adoption metrics:  

1. Over 3,000 Businesses onboarded within the first three months,
2. ⁠Facilitated over ₦340 million in working capital loans,
3. ⁠Achieved a 92% user satisfaction score, with widespread praise for its intuitive design and accessibility.

  The platform’s impact is already being felt across multiple markets, enabling small business owners to digitize their processes, access credit, and scale with greater efficiency. Kofoworade’s use of agile delivery frameworks, combined with a deep understanding of user behavior, has been credited with the product’s early success.   Reacting to the award, Oluwafunke expressed gratitude to the YALI Network and reaffirmed her commitment to building inclusive technology that empowers underserved communities.   “This recognition fuels my belief in African-built solutions. I am honoured to be part of a generation that’s shaping the future of digital finance and entrepreneurship on the continent,” she said.   The YALI Network, launched by the U.S. Department of State, is one of Africa’s most influential platforms for emerging leaders, providing world-class leadership training and spotlighting game-changers in policy, business, and technology.   As digital transformation accelerates across Africa, leaders like Oluwafunke Kofoworade are proving that youth-led innovation is not just the future it's already here.