By Chioma Okoye

When Thembi Portia Shilenge first entered the male-dominated mining industry as a chemical engineer, she was already breaking boundaries. But it wasn’t until she entered the world of digital currency in 2017 that her true calling came into focus.

Now, as the celebrated CEO of Crypto Dimensions, she’s teaching others, especially the African woman to break their own boundaries—financially, intellectually, and socially.

“I started Crypto Dimensions because I saw too many young people being left behind,” Thembi shares. “I wanted to create a space where learning blockchain wasn’t a luxury but a right.”

What started as free weekend sessions has evolved into a full-fledged academy that has transformed lives across Africa. Hundreds have gone on to become professional traders, with more than 100 reportedly achieving millionaire status under her mentorship.

But Shilenge’s impact doesn’t stop at finance. Her Fems in Tech initiative encourages young women to pursue careers in fintech, while her humanitarian efforts—including the donation of 50,000 sanitary pads to rural schools—reveal a heart rooted in community.

Her recent recognition at the Africa’s Under 40 CEOs Awards is both a celebration and a call to action. It honors not just her past achievements, but her ongoing commitment to build a more inclusive future.

“This is for the dreamers,” she says. “Especially the ones who were never given permission to dream big.”