Ayanacho Named Yessiey Tech Innovator Of The Year

Joy Nma Anyanacho, an entrepreneur and trailblazer in Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been named ‘Tech Innovator Of The Year’ by The Yessiey Awards.

The award is in recognition of her remarkable contributions to the digital landscape in Africa, and inspiring a new generation of innovators across the continent.

Upon receiving the Yessiey Award, Anyanacho expressed her gratitude, stating, “This recognition is not just for me but for all young Africans who dare to dream and innovate. Together, we can harness digital technology to create sustainable solutions for our communities.

“I come from a place where creativity is survival, where innovation isn’t a luxury — it’s a lifeline. I build technology that speaks our language, sees our struggles, and lights a path forward. My work is not just code — it’s a call to rise,” she said.

Anyanacho holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communication from Imo State University, Nigeria, and is studying for a Master’s degree in Computer Science at the Illinois Institute of Technology, USA. Born and raised in Nigeria, her early fascination with communication and systems thinking laid the foundation for a career defined by innovation, empowerment, and impact.

She is the founder and chief executive officer of OmaInnova, a forward-thinking technology company that delivers intelligent, accessible, and locally resonant solutions to Africa’s most pressing business and digital challenges.

With these achievements, Joy Nma Anyanacho is widely regarded as a leading figure in Africa’s AI ecosystem and an internationally recognized innovator in the global technology community.

Speaking on the award, Yessiey head of event, Oluwaseun Olaegbe said the award is a testament to the extraordinary individuals who are reshaping the landscape of technology through innovation. “It is a milestone that celebrates the remarkable difference she has made and the even greater one she’s bound to create.” He further described Anyanacho’s work as transformative and of extraordinary importance to Africa’s digital future.

The Yessiey Tech Innovator of the Year Award is conferred annually to a single individual chosen from hundreds of nominees across Africa, marking one of the continent’s most prestigious honors in technology innovation.

The Yessiey Awards, presented by Yessiey magazine, acknowledge outstanding achievements in a wide range of human endeavors. It celebrates remarkable firsts, groundbreaking inventions, significant discoveries, prestigious honors, and extraordinary accomplishments.