Ghanaian-American tech mogul Iddris Sandu will be honored with the YACE (Rising Star) Award at the FACE List Awards gala during the 2019 Pan-African Weekend in New York City July 18-21st.

Articulating his ideas with geometric complexity, Sandu, a visionary equipped with the virtual reality glasses it takes to see into our future, draws a certain future that is simple, relatable and understandable.

Starting his career at Google at the age of 13, Sandu is well versed in history, economics and technological implication. He has worked with cities to start STEM programs in local schools, developed algorithms for companies like Uber, Snapchat, Twitter, and Instagram.

In 2017, Iddris and hip-hop artist/entrepreneur Nipsey Hussle came together to create the first Smart Store leveraging the stealth and uniqueness of his AIPE technology and Nipsey’s cultural influence. The store displayed its’ groundbreaking features: the ability to scan album covers to activate new spins to scanning painted text on the wall and being (able) to stream video content.

Sandu has also served as a technical consultant for Kanye West and partnered with Jaden Smith. His work is recognized by many macro influencers including the likes of Mayor Eric Garcetti and Barack Obama.

Iddris’ message is one that speaks of our youth being informed — and as such, Sandu recently delivered a Ted Talk aimed at providing youth with the exposure they need to create the future; He led a Today At Apple Class on design as one of the youngest to do so in partnership with Apple; and as of May, he became one of the youngest to deliver a keynote at New York University’s graduation ceremony.

Iddris’ main focus comprises architecture, design and cultural empowerment through technology.

He is currently developing a TV show centered around collaboration.

About the FACE List Awards:

The FACE List Awards are a prestigious celebration of pan-African achievement that honor the black diaspora’s most influential pioneers and trailblazers, while providing an opportunity for the business community to connect and celebrate our success stories. The black-tie affair includes a pre-reception, live performances, a full-course dinner, and award presentations.