As part of its 40th anniversary celebration, ELLE magazine has unveiled its “40 For 40: Women of Hope” list, honoring women who are reshaping the world through courage, creativity, and conviction. Among those recognized  are Nigerian-American author Tomi Adeyemi and Ugandan climate activist Vanessa Nakate.

Compiled in collaboration with a panel of judges that includes Gabriela Hearst, Amanda Gorman, Nadia Murad, and Mikaela Loach, the list spotlights women who are “pushing for social change and show us that there’s always the chance to hope.”

Celebrated for her genre-defying impact on young adult literature, Tomi Adeyemi was chosen for her groundbreaking Legacy of Orïsha series. “I chose author Tomi Adeyemi, for her imaginative writing prowess and skillful world building featured in her YA fantasy series, Legacy of Orïsha, which is set in West Africa and features complex Black protagonists in a genre that often lacks diverse racial representation,” said judge Amanda Gorman.

A Harvard graduate, Adeyemi has already made a mark on literature with her debut novel Children of Blood and Bone, which became an instant #1 New York Times bestseller. Her trilogy has sold over three million copies worldwide and is currently being adapted for film. Named one of TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People, Adeyemi continues to inspire a new generation of readers with stories that blend African mythology, social justice, and fierce imagination.

Vanessa Nakate, an advocate for climate justice in Africa, was also recognized on the list for her unwavering commitment to environmental activism. “Ugandan climate activist Vanessa Nakate makes a difference through her dedication to protesting against the climate crisis and urging world leaders to recognise climate change as a serious matter that will impact individuals worldwide,” said Amanda Gorman.

Nakate began her journey with a solitary climate strike in Kampala in 2019 and has since emerged as one of the most influential climate voices on the global stage. She is the founder of Youth for Future Africa and the Rise Up Movement, and has spoken at major international forums, including the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP25) and the World Economic Forum in Davos.

Her activism centers on highlighting the disproportionate impact of climate change on African communities and promoting sustainable solutions like solar power for Ugandan schools. She is the author of the memoir A Bigger Picture.

It’s great to see Tomi Adeyemi and Vanessa Nakate recognized as the trailblazers they are!