KIGALI, Aug 20 (AGCNewsNet) – Damien Niyonshuti has become the first Rwandan to join the Forbes Technology Council, an exclusive invitation-only community of leading executives, innovators, and technology leaders.

Niyonshuti, a seasoned engineer with expertise in software systems, AI, and platform architecture, began his journey from Byimana, Rwanda, before moving to the United States at 19 on a scholarship. He later earned a Master’s degree in California and completed an Executive Management Program in AI Strategy at MIT.

“A turning point came when I worked at one of Wall Street’s leading global firms early in college,” he said. “It exposed me to the global technology culture and connected me with mentors who shaped my vision.”

He has since worked with Fortune 500 companies, founded a software services firm, and invested in early-stage startups. Currently, he leads platform engineering initiatives at Ford Motor Company, focusing on cloud-first, AI-ready environments, while also serving as founder and board member of TEKx Labs, a Seattle-based venture studio supporting startups.

Accepted into the council in July, Niyonshuti described the opportunity as a platform to share Africa’s unique perspectives. “This is a global impact, having a platform that reaches a massive audience while also educating the market about what’s happening in Rwanda and across Africa,” he said.

He added that he plans to use the network to create opportunities for Rwandan tech companies by highlighting local innovation in AI and cloud technologies. “This platform can amplify what’s happening locally, educate the market, and help entrepreneurs connect with other global innovators and visionaries,” he noted.

Niyonshuti also cited Rwanda’s growing role in the AI and cloud ecosystem, pointing to Oracle’s expansion as evidence of global trust in the country’s tech sector. He urged young African innovators to remain curious, solve real problems, and leverage the continent’s unique perspective to drive global solutions.

“When one Rwandan succeeds, we carry the aspirations of our people and the responsibility to create opportunities for others,” he emphasized.

Stay connected with AGC NewsNet for the latest news from Africa.