Ghana Girl Rising founder, Zaina Adamu, has earned a place on the 2026 Global Top 40 Under 40 list by Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD), a distinction aligned with the United Nations’ International Decade for People of African Descent.
The MIPAD recognition is part of a global effort to spotlight individuals of African heritage whose work is shaping industries, influencing communities, and driving meaningful change across sectors.
Adamu has built a career at the intersection of storytelling, policy, and empowerment. In her former role as Ghana Girl Rising’s founder, she worked to equip young women in Ghana with educational opportunities in the country and abroad.
“The Under 40 honorees reflect a generation of leaders who are not only advancing within their fields, but are also contributing to broader societal progress. Across sectors, their work demonstrates the growing presence and impact of people of African descent in positions of influence,” MIPAD Founder and CEO Jonathan Olufowobi said.
Honorees will be formally recognized during MIPAD’s Recognition Week in September 2026, held alongside the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City.
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