Maldivian artist Raya Mansoor joins Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia list
Maldivian artist and entrepreneur earns spot on prestigious regional ranking as creative brand expands beyond Maldives
MALE, Maldives (MNTV) — Maldivian artist and entrepreneur Raya Mansoor has been named to Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia 2026 list under arts category, becoming one of the region’s young creatives recognized for building internationally visible brands and expanding cultural exports beyond domestic markets.
Mansoor was selected under the arts category of annual ranking, which highlights young innovators, entrepreneurs and creators from across Asia-Pacific region. According to Forbes, the list aims to showcase emerging figures shaping business, technology, culture and social impact across the region.
Mansoor co-founded Oevaali Art Shop alongside her sister in 2015, transforming what began as a local creative venture into a lifestyle and design brand centered around Maldivian-inspired artwork, textiles, home products and accessories.
From its base in Maldives, the brand gradually expanded internationally and opened a new location in Singapore’s Arab Street district in early 2024, marking one of few Maldivian creative brands to establish physical presence abroad.
An economics graduate and self-taught artist, Mansoor developed a style combining abstract, contemporary and expressionist influences. While much of her earlier work explored themes connected to marine life and island environments, later collections shifted toward bolder colors and more expressive visual forms.
Her artwork has also appeared in public spaces across Maldives, including hospitality spaces at Velana International Airport, placing her work before thousands of international travelers entering the country.
The annual Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia list, now in its 11th edition, covers 10 categories ranging from arts and entertainment to artificial intelligence, finance, social impact and sports, with 30 honorees selected for each category.
Mansoor’s recognition comes amid broader discussions about diversification of Maldives’ economy beyond tourism, with artists, designers and entrepreneurs increasingly calling for stronger investment in creative industries and cultural exports.
While Maldives remains internationally known primarily for tourism, recognition of creative entrepreneurs on regional platforms is increasingly being viewed as a sign of growing visibility for the country’s cultural sector.
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