ICONS

“An icon is someone who has held true to realize socially positive goals against great challenges and odds, who has lived to tell the tale, who inspires others in a positive way, and who leaves behind a legacy of uplifting work.”
– Tsitsi Dangarembga

gerian-American artist, who also graced the FORBES AFRICA 30 Under 30 list in 2018, told us that “it was people like [Nigerian music veterans] P-Square and D’Banj” who made him believe “that all this was possible”.

Since his advent to fame, Davido has won multiple awards, including BET awards and MTV awards. He has also signed on several endorsements with MTN and Guinness Nigeria.

1| DAVIDO

Labeled as an Afrobeats superstar by Forbes in 2020, Davido is without a doubt one of Africa’s biggest musicians. The Ni-

2| GERT-JOHAN COETZEE

“I am not one of those people who let challenges stop me, I tend to want to overcome them,” says 33-year-old designer, Gert-Johan Coetzee.

The South African, born in Koster in the country’s North West province, first rose to fame when he won the High Fashion Award at the Vukani Fashion Awards 2004. This is where TV personality Sandy Ngema noticed him and from there, Coetzee dressed her for the annual Durban July that year, and for the past two seasons of Strictly Come Dancing South Africa.

“Ten-year-old me never thought that this would be possible even though he had dreams of it especially since the label is celebrating its tenth anniversary,” he says.

Since then, Coetzee has designed pieces for some of Africa’s biggest stars like Bonang Matheba and Terry Pheto, to name a few. But he has also had the opportunity to design pieces for Cardi B, Kourtney Kardashian, and even Oprah Winfrey; this he says is a highlight in his 10-year career.

“I am a very positive person, my life is very colorful,” he laughs, in an interview with FORBES AFRICA, “This journey has been one massive jol and I have surrounded myself with amazing people.”

Being labeled an icon for Coetzee is something he deems “a dream come true” especially as an African creative.

“I am so excited about this honor. The magic of me and my work is that I am African and that’s what makes what I do special.” Coetzee smiles, “When FORBES AFRICA gives you the stamp of approval, you know you have made it.”

3| CONNIE FERGUSON

DAILY MANTRA: “Success is a choice! Rise and grind!”

Having been in the film industry for over 30 years, award-winning South African actor Connie Ferguson is on the list for her impact as an actor, producer, and filmmaker. In 2018, she also graced the cover of FORBES WOMAN AFRICA. She talks to FORBES AFRICA about being included on the icons list.

Q: What have the highlights of your career been, both as a businesswoman and actor?

My highlights as an actor have been my time at Generations, a show that allowed me the opportunity to build my brand, my role as Mavis in Rockville, our debut show as executive producers, and my current role as Harriet Khoza in The Queen. Although the different awards received over the years are humbling and appreciated, the loyal fans and viewers that diligently follow and appreciate my work are who make it all worthwhile. As a businesswoman, being the first SA TV personality to launch a perfume in 2008, and a body care range Connie Body Lotion and Connie Men in 2015; winning the Shoprite Supplier Of The Year Award in 2015 was the cherry on top. Ferguson Films, a production company I own and run with my husband Shona, is also not only a highlight but the biggest blessing! We can create work for a hundred plus in a very tough economic climate. All our shows have performed exceedingly well, and we are truly grateful to the people who follow and enjoy our work. They inspire us to keep the creative juices flowing.

Q: What do you think makes an icon?

Someone that is not only aspirational but inspirational, that