The Project Management Institute has released its 2024 Future 50 list, highlighting 50 exceptional leaders under 35 who are utilising project management to tackle critical global issues such as food insecurity, social justice, and sustainability.

PMI, in a release, noted that the diverse group represented industries like healthcare, environmental science, technology, and social justice, showcasing the transformative power of project management in solving complex problems.

Among those honoured from Sub-Saharan Africa were Awa Bousso Dramé, Bernardo Martins, Bahati Innocent, Celestin Nkeramihigo, Kevin Kwakye-Safo, Marco Carlos, and Prosperidade Sunguete.

The institute claimed their inclusion highlighted Africa’s emerging talent and underscored the continent’s growing influence on the global stage.

The Managing Director of Sub-Saharan Africa at PMI, George Asamani, said, “Having honourees from Sub-Saharan Africa recognised among the Future 50 is a testament to the exceptional talent, resilience, and innovative spirit that define the continent’s rising project leaders.

“These individuals are shaping the region’s future and showcasing to the world the profound impact of African ingenuity and leadership.”

He explained that the recognition coincided with an increasing demand for skilled project managers globally.

According to Asamani, with industries being reshaped by artificial intelligence, climate change, and other macro trends, the world needs 2.5 million new project professionals annually by 2030.

Project management is now ranked among LinkedIn’s top 10 in-demand skills for 2024, reflecting its critical role in navigating innovation and transformation.

“By 2050, Africa’s youth population is projected to double to 830m, while its working-age population will grow from 849m in 2024 to 1.56bn. This growth offers unprecedented opportunities for the continent to drive innovation and economic transformation.

“By celebrating these young leaders, PMI aims to inspire more youth to see project management as a path to impactful careers. Their success stories highlight how the profession enables individuals to turn ideas into realities, contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable global future,” the PMI boss said.

He added that the Future 50 list was a clarion call for young professionals to embrace project management to drive meaningful change.