- April 16, 2024
- Posted by: Kusumi
- Category: Articles
We are thrilled to announce that Aruwa Capital has been nominated for multiple prestigious awards at the upcoming African Private Capital Association (“AVCA”) 20th Anniversary Conference Awards. AVCA is a pan-African industry body championing private investment into Africa. The 2024 Annual AVCA Conference marks AVCA’s 20th year of convening the private capital ecosystem across various cities in Africa.
As AVCA celebrates its 20th anniversary, they are honouring outstanding contributions that have shaped the private capital industry over the years. Aruwa Capital is proud to be recognised among the nominees for these esteemed awards, as we stand alongside other industry leaders in celebrating the transformative power of private capital in Africa and our impact on the African investment landscape.
With a total of 20 awards being presented at this special ceremony, the AVCA 20th Anniversary Conference Awards are a testament to the growth and evolution of the private capital industry on the continent. We are honoured to be shortlisted for not just one but three prestigious categories, each representing a different aspect of our commitment to excellence, innovation, systems change and impact.
In particular, we are nominated for two GP awards and one Individual award:
DEI Champion Award: Acknowledging our dedication to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion, both within our firm and portfolio companies. As showcased in our latest impact report, our portfolio of 10 companies is 70% female founded and led, supporting close to 360,000 direct and indirect jobs where 41% of direct jobs are held by women and 56% of indirect jobs are held by women. Our portfolio is also championing diversity across our boards, ownership structures and customer bases.
Newcomer Award: This nomination recognises our remarkable strides in fundraising and deal making. Since our inception 5 years ago, Aruwa Capital has demonstrated a strong track record of mobilising local private capital, securing blue chip institutional investors, completing successful investments and also driving growth and creating value for our portfolio companies. Our innovative gender lens investment strategy and dedication to identifying high-potential opportunities has positioned us as a leader amongst upcoming fund managers in Africa.
NextGen Future Leader Award (Female): This nomination celebrates the leadership and impact of our Founder, Adesuwa Okunbo Rhodes. Under Adesuwa’s leadership and guidance, Aruwa Capital has championed diversity, equity, and inclusion both within our firm and across our portfolio companies. Her vision and commitment to systems change has set a high standard for future leaders in the private capital industry and inspired many to begin their own journeys.
We extend our congratulations to all the nominees across the various categories. Together, we are driving positive change and shaping the future of private capital in Africa.
Join us in celebrating this significant achievement and we look forward to the upcoming AVCA 20th Anniversary Conference Awards in Johannesburg. Hope to see you there!