We believe Africa's creators deserve global reach.
We started the Akuna Wallet because we saw firsthand the challenges creators face to make a living and build a career in the creative economy both within and beyond their borders.
The Akuna Wallet is designed to contribute to sustainable, lasting economic opportunity and growth in Africa — and help position Africa as a cultural leader and trendsetter globally.
By bringing together the creative industry expertise of Idris Elba and his team at the Akuna Group with the Stellar Development Foundation’s know-how on delivering innovative digital financial services powered by the Stellar network, we see how we can make a difference and create access to the global creative economy.
Denelle Dixon
Co-Founder & Global CEO
Denelle Dixon is a recognized business & technology leader. In addition to global oversight of the Akuna Wallet team, she is also the CEO and Executive Director of the Stellar Development Foundation, a non-profit organization seeking to increase access to the global financial system.
Idris Elba
Co-Founder
Idris Elba, a multi award-winning actor, filmmaker, and musician is one of today’s most versatile performers. Idris uses his voice to amplify support for world issues, with a particular focus on advancing the interests of the underprivileged and underrepresented.
KJ Owusu-Agyeman
CEO, Africa
Kwadwo ‘KJ’ Owusu-Agyeman is an Africa-focused product and business leader with a career spanning technology, fintech, and investment banking. He leads Akuna Wallet’s mission across Africa to build inclusive financial tools for the continent’s creative economy.
Lauren Thorbjornsen
Strategic Advisor
Lauren is a strategy leader with a career at the intersection of technology, business, and policy. Her experience spans the public sector, including the White House under President Obama and the OECD, as well as the private sector, including Salesforce and the Stellar Development Foundation.