The restaurant's founder and proprietor, Nicole Ansoni, was honored in the hospitality category, representing Rwanda among a class of global change makers who are redefining their industries before the age of 40.
The Forty Under 40 Global Awards, themed 'Connecting Global Champions,' celebrated 40 high-performing leaders from 17 countries who are creating transformational impact across business, technology, arts, and culture.
Hosted at the Hilton garden inn hotel in Business Bay, the event brought together a vibrant network of entrepreneurs and innovators, highlighting excellence, vision, and leadership on a global scale.
Nicole Ansoni's recognition marks a significant moment for Rwanda's hospitality sector. Through her work with Inka Steakhouse, she has elevated Rwandan cuisine and championed a local-first philosophy that blends fine dining with community empowerment.
Her restaurant, known for its refined menu centered on locally sourced meat and produce, has not only redefined Kigali's dining scene but also served as a platform for promoting Rwanda's rich agricultural heritage.
'This award is a powerful recognition of Rwanda's growing voice in global hospitality and of the work we're doing to celebrate African excellence through food, service, and storytelling,' Ansoni said in her acceptance speech.
'Standing on that stage, representing my country, was humbling, but also a reminder that our ideas, our culture, and our vision have a rightful place at the center of global conversations. I hope this moment encourages more young Africans, especially women, to lead boldly, dream without limits, and build with purpose,' she added.
Founded with a mission to spotlight Rwanda's culinary potential, Inka Steakhouse has quickly become more than just a restaurant, it is a movement celebrating local ingredients, sustainable sourcing, and homegrown talent.
Named after the Kinyarwanda word for 'cow,' Inka reflects dignity, nobility, and a deep respect for tradition.
Under Nicole's leadership, the restaurant has forged partnerships with Rwandan farmers, improving meat quality standards and helping establish a more sustainable supply chain in a country where the hospitality infrastructure is on an upward trajectory.
Nicole's award highlights not only her personal journey as an entrepreneur but also the rise of African voices shaping the global narrative in food and hospitality.
Her work is grounded in a belief that business can be both profitable and purpose-driven, and that excellence can be achieved through honoring local culture and community.
The Forty Under 40 recognition underscores the growing international appreciation for innovative African-led businesses.
For Inka Steakhouse and Nicole Ansoni, this milestone is not just a celebration of achievement, it's a signal that Rwanda is firmly on the map as a destination for world-class hospitality and visionary leadership.
Sam K Nkurunziza
