South African Entrepreneur, 30, Named Forbes Africa Winner

A South African entrepreneur is proving that investing in young people can change the trajectory of an entire continent.

Rayhaan Survé has been named to the Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 list for his work in innovation, entrepreneurship, and youth empowerment. The prestigious recognition celebrates young Africans who are building solutions across business, technology, and innovation.

Survé founded iAccelerate SA, a youth entrepreneurship accelerator program that works directly with public high school students in Cape Town. The program teaches students how to start and run their own businesses, giving them skills that can lift families and communities out of poverty.

His work extends beyond education into sustainable aquaculture and food security through the Survé Family Office. These initiatives tackle some of Africa's most pressing challenges while creating jobs and economic opportunities.

"Africa's potential has never been in question," Survé shared on LinkedIn after receiving the honor. "Our task is to keep building the systems that allow it to be realized."

The Ripple Effect

When you teach one teenager to become an entrepreneur, you're not just changing one life. That student goes home and shares new ideas with their family, potentially starting a business that employs neighbors and strengthens the local economy.

Sekunjalo Investments Group CEO Lucien Jacobs praised Survé's commitment to economic inclusion through education and entrepreneurship. "His journey reflects the belief that opportunity, education, and entrepreneurship have the power to transform lives," Jacobs said in a statement.

The Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 list has become one of the continent's leading platforms for highlighting young changemakers. Being recognized alongside other innovative leaders puts a spotlight on the creative solutions emerging from African entrepreneurs.

Survé's focus on public high school students is particularly meaningful because it reaches young people who might not otherwise have access to business training or mentorship. By meeting students where they are, the program opens doors that were previously closed.

Despite this recognition, Survé acknowledges there's "far more to do." His continued investment in emerging talent and support for young entrepreneurs is creating a foundation for long-term prosperity across South Africa and beyond.

One recognition, thousands of young lives changed, and a blueprint for how Africa's next generation can build the future they deserve.