Yemisi Obe is a trailblazer in Africa’s agribusiness sector, blending innovation, leadership, and a passion for human capital development to transform traditional food production. As the Managing Director of Prothrive Astute Heights Ltd, the company behind Grandios Pap, Yemisi has successfully introduced a modern twist to one of West Africa’s most cherished staples. Her groundbreaking efforts are empowering local communities, nurturing entrepreneurs, and expanding the global footprint of African food products.
A seasoned professional with over two decades of experience, Yemisi began her career in the corporate world. After earning her degree in Accounting from the University of Ilorin, she honed her skills in finance and business strategy at leading organizations, including First City Monument Bank, KPMG, and Shell Nigeria Exploration and Producing Company. Her corporate journey shaped her entrepreneurial mindset and sparked a desire to create sustainable solutions for youth and women in business.
“I believe that with the right tools and opportunities, African entrepreneurs, especially women, can build ventures that drive economic growth and improve lives,” she emphasizes. This belief led to the establishment of Prothrive Astute Heights Ltd, a venture Yemisi co-founded to provide high-quality, innovative food products that resonate with consumers both locally and internationally.
Grandios Pap, the flagship product of Prothrive, has become a household name and is available in over 500 physical and online stores worldwide. Recognized for its superior quality and convenience, it has earned a spot on global platforms like Amazon, Carrefour UAE, and African food stores across the USA, UK, UAE, and beyond. “Our mission is to make nutritious, culturally significant foods accessible to people everywhere,” Yemisi explains.
Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2023, she received the FATE Foundation Alumni Model Entrepreneur (FAME) Award, and in 2024, she was honored with the prestigious Global Recognition Award for her contributions to agribusiness, leadership, and mentoring. These accolades reflect her impact on Africa’s food security and her unwavering commitment to nurturing upcoming entrepreneurs.
Yemisi’s dedication extends beyond business. A graduate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Entrepreneurship Development Program and an alumna of the Fate Foundation Scale-Up Lab, she frequently shares her expertise as a speaker, mentor, and course director. She is deeply involved in agribusiness networks such as the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the SUN Business Network Nigeria, where she advocates for strategic investments to bolster Africa’s food production. “Africa’s potential in food production is immense, but it requires a concerted effort to unlock it through strategic planning and resource allocation,” she says.
A strong believer in mentorship, Yemisi leverages her platform to uplift others. From judging entrepreneurship competitions to facilitating workshops, she continually supports youths and women in business. “For me, success is not just about personal achievements but about creating opportunities for others to thrive,” she shares. Her work exemplifies this philosophy, inspiring countless entrepreneurs to follow in her footsteps.
Yemisi’s vision is rooted in innovation and inclusivity. She aspires to further expand Prothrive’s reach, develop new products that meet evolving consumer needs, and deepen her impact on Africa’s agribusiness landscape. “We are not just building a business; we are contributing to a legacy of sustainable growth and development for future generations,” she states with conviction.
As a wife, mother, and passionate advocate for change, Yemisi balances her personal and professional life with grace and purpose. Her journey reflects perseverance, vision, and the power of leveraging local heritage for global impact. With her leadership, the future of African agribusiness is not just promising—it’s groundbreaking.
