AWIEF is a pan-African organisation dedicated to advancing women’s economic empowerment and leadership across the continent. Through its annual conference, awards, accelerator programmes and strategic partnerships, AWIEF continued to support women founders, executives and innovators. The organisation drives sustainable growth and inclusive development.
Each year, AWIEF convened entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, corporate leaders and development partners from across Africa and the diaspora for two days of high-level dialogue, innovation showcases, and strategic engagement focused on advancing women’s entrepreneurship and leadership. The programme included keynote addresses, panel discussions, masterclasses, workshops and B2B networking sessions covering leadership, innovation, trade, technology, investment and policy.
Since its inception in 2016, the AWIEF Awards have become a beacon of recognition and inspiration for women in business and leadership, fostering a pan-African community rooted in collaboration, creativity and measurable impact. AWIEF’s work was supported by sponsors and partners, including OCP Africa, Deloitte Africa, the City of Cape Town, the African Women Development Fund (AWDF), Nedbank, UNDP, UN Women and MINT360.
The Advisory Board brought together leaders whose experience and influence elevated AWIEF’s mission, including Fatma Samoura, former Secretary General of FIFA, and Awa Ndiaye-Seck, Special Representative of UN Women, contributing a global perspective to advance women’s leadership and entrepreneurship across Africa.
Speaking on his appointment, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard said: “I strongly believe African women should be empowered, equipped, and recognised for their contributions, innovations, and leadership. AWIEF highlights and celebrates these women globally in the most beautiful way. It is a powerful platform that amplifies women’s leadership and innovation across Africa. I am glad to support this mission, and joining AWIEF’s Advisory Board offers a meaningful opportunity to help drive real impact towards a more inclusive and prosperous future.”
A Franco-Gabonese entrepreneur named among the 100 Most Influential Africans in 2023 and 2024, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, served on numerous advisory boards and international committees. These include the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business, Africa Tech Festival, African Energy Chamber, World Football Summit, Africa Hotel Investment Forum, Bloomberg New Economy Gateway Africa and All Africa Music Awards.
His wholly owned company, APO Group, served more than 300 clients, including Canon, Emirates, Nestlé, Western Union, UNDP, TikTok, Coca-Cola, the NBA, NFL, and Marriott, reinforcing its position as a leading pan-African communications consultancy.



