The Masters of Scale Summit 2024 is set to shine a spotlight on African innovation and entrepreneurship as Stephen Rwagweri, the esteemed founder and CEO of African Continental Crafts, joins as one of the event’s distinguished speakers.

Hailing from Fort Portal, Uganda, Rwagweri has been at the forefront of transforming traditional artisanal practices into market-viable goods, fostering economic inclusion, and empowering local communities. His work with African Continental Crafts has opened new opportunities for artisans, connecting them to global markets and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Africa through crafts.

Rwagweri’s participation at the summit is highly anticipated, given his remarkable achievements as a social entrepreneur and cultural expert. He has successfully leveraged traditional crafts to create sustainable livelihoods for artisans, demonstrating how cultural heritage can drive economic development. His insights on utilizing local skills and traditions to foster economic growth and community resilience align perfectly with the themes of innovation and social impact central to the Masters of Scale Summit.

As a prominent speaker on global stages, Rwagweri’s address is expected to inspire and challenge other entrepreneurs to think creatively about leveraging Indigenous knowledge and resources for economic development. His presence at the summit underscores the growing recognition of Africa’s potential to shape the future of global markets through unique and culturally significant products.

Alongside Rwagweri, the summit will feature a select group of 40 early-stage founders who are making significant strides in their industries. Among them is Brandice Daniel, CEO and Founder of Harlem’s Fashion Row, who is dedicated to promoting diversity in the fashion industry. Her collaboration with top brands amplifies the voices of designers of color and fosters inclusive practices, making her a transformative figure in the fashion world.

Also joining the summit is Bolaji Akinboro, Co-Founder of Tórónet, who leads innovation in the FinTech and DeFi sectors across emerging markets. Akinboro utilizes blockchain technology to drive inclusive economic growth and digital transformation in Africa and beyond, positioning himself as a trailblazer in the industry.

Candice Edwards, CEO and Co-Founder of Ellevoy, is another notable attendee. Her community-focused B2B SaaS platform connects emerging founders with essential resources, fostering innovation and growth in startup ecosystems, particularly for underrepresented entrepreneurs. Her leadership in the tech and venture capital landscape highlights the importance of supporting diverse founders and building inclusive networks.

Supported by Capital One Business, the early-stage founder cohort at the summit is poised to forge valuable connections, share insights, and catalyze positive change in their respective fields. The presence of these exceptional founders, along with other inspiring individuals like Dana Griffin and Cedric Lipsey, promises to redefine industry standards, challenge traditional norms, and pave the way for a more inclusive and innovative future.

As the Masters of Scale Summit 2024 unfolds, the stories of these visionaries, including Stephen Rwagweri, serve as a testament to the power of entrepreneurship, diversity, and collaboration in driving meaningful impact worldwide. The summit will be a fertile ground for new ideas, partnerships, and inspiring journeys that will shape the future of industries across the globe.