At a prestigious ceremony held in Dubai on April 12, 2025, Olufemi Oguntamu, the founder and CEO of Penzaarville Africa, was honored with the Forty Under 40 Global Award in the Media (Digital & Social) category. The exclusive event, hosted at the Hilton Garden Inn in Business Bay, celebrated a select group of young global leaders under the age of 40 who are reshaping industries through innovation, leadership, and impactful storytelling.

This year's edition of the Forty Under 40 Global Awards, themed “Connecting Global Champions,” gathered exceptional honorees from across four continents, drawing attention to their groundbreaking work in various sectors, from technology and social impact to media and business development. Olufemi’s recognition as a pioneer in African digital media is a testament to his transformative contributions to the digital landscape, where he continues to push boundaries and inspire future generations.

A Visionary Leader in African Digital Media

Olufemi’s journey to becoming a global leader in digital media has been marked by his unwavering commitment to inclusive, authentic digital storytelling. As the CEO of Penzaarville Africa, he has built an influential creative agency known for its work in influencer marketing, large-scale digital activations, and cultural engagement. Under his leadership, Penzaarville Africa has become one of Africa’s most dynamic and culturally relevant creative agencies, helping organizations move beyond traditional marketing campaigns to create culture-driven communities.

Olufemi Oguntamu has developed new models of brand engagement that are uniquely African, yet globally impactful, positioning him as a thought leader in digital innovation across the continent and beyond. His work has not only redefined how brands engage with African audiences but also helped to showcase the depth of African creativity on the global stage.

In his acceptance speech, Olufemi shared,
"This award isn’t about personal achievement, it is about the collective spirit of African excellence in digital storytelling. It’s a reminder that our ideas, our culture, and our voices are not just part of the conversation, they are shaping it."

The Forty Under 40 Global Award: A Recognition of Global Leaders

The Forty Under 40 Global Awards, organized by Xodus Communications, has become one of the most prestigious recognitions for emerging leaders worldwide. The award celebrates individuals who are making extraordinary contributions to their industries, disrupting the status quo, and paving the way for future innovations.

Winners are selected based on a rigorous judging process by a panel of distinguished global business leaders, brand executives, industry experts, and previous award honorees. The criteria for selection include impact, innovation, leadership, and the nominee’s contribution to global progress. Olufemi’s selection from thousands of nominees underscores the significance of his work and his growing recognition on the global stage.

Olufemi Oguntamu’s Impact on the African Digital Landscape

Olufemi’s rise as a digital media visionary is rooted in his ability to connect brands and consumers in meaningful ways. His work with Penzaarville Africa has not only redefined marketing strategies but also led to the creation of culture-centric campaigns that resonate deeply with African and global audiences alike.

Contributions Include:

1. Pioneering Digital Engagement Models: By blending traditional storytelling with digital innovation, Olufemi has helped companies engage consumers on a deeper level, resulting in stronger connections and more impactful brand experiences.

2. Social Media Strategy Leadership: His strategic approach to social media marketing has shaped the way brands interact with audiences, making digital platforms a powerful tool for both brand building and community growth.

3. Championing African Creativity: Olufemi has placed African creativity at the forefront of the global digital landscape, ensuring that the continent’s voices are not just heard but also celebrated in the wider media conversation.

A Moment of Pride for Nigeria and the African Creative Community

Olufemi Oguntamu’s recognition at the Forty Under 40 Global Awards is a powerful moment of pride for Nigeria and the broader African creative community. His win serves as a reminder of the global value of bold thinking, culturally grounded strategy, and purpose-driven media. As Africa continues to emerge as a leading force in the digital ecosystem, Olufemi stands as a prime example of how innovation and creativity can drive change and shape the future.

The Dubai ceremony, which brought together influential leaders from around the world, was the culmination of a three-day experience filled with business tours, networking forums, and leadership roundtables. These sessions allowed for the exchange of ideas and fostered international dialogue, further emphasizing the importance of cross-cultural collaboration and global influence.

Celebrating the Global Champions of Tomorrow

Olufemi’s recognition was shared with other outstanding individuals, including Ayodeji Razaq (Nigeria), Reece Mennie (United Kingdom), Fiza Farhan (Pakistan), Nicole Ansoni (Rwanda), and Darren Meltz (South Africa), who have also made significant strides in their respective fields. These honorees represent a new generation of leaders who are driving change and disrupting traditional norms across industries.

In celebrating these individuals, the Forty Under 40 Global Awards shines a spotlight on the leaders of tomorrow — innovators and visionaries who are shaping the future with their creativity, drive, and commitment to progress.

Shaping the Future of Digital Media and Beyond

Olufemi Oguntamu’s Forty Under 40 Global Award is not just a personal achievement but a celebration of African excellence and digital innovation. His legacy as a leader in digital storytelling and media engagement is shaping the future of the African digital ecosystem, one idea, one campaign, and one story at a time.

As Olufemi and other honorees continue to lead their industries, they are paving the way for a more inclusive, connected, and innovative world. With his award-winning approach to digital media and purpose-driven strategies, Olufemi Oguntamu is undoubtedly one of the most influential voices in global digital transformation.