The distinguished Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards wrapped up its third annual ceremony on June 22 at The Capital on The Park in Sandton. The event honored young African brand owners for their outstanding accomplishments in redefining industries and creating their brands.
The winning companies were chosen from a competitive pool of 76 nominations across Africa and voted on by over 30 000 people. They demonstrated great influence and creativity in their respective sectors. The Top 16 YOBAs acknowledge not only entrepreneurial achievement but also the significant contributions of youth-led initiatives to Africa’s commercial sector.
Criteria
For a brand to be recognized by the Pat on Brands Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards it needs to meet the following criteria:
- Must be owned and run by persons between the ages of 18* and 35*.
- The brand must be older than 1 year (12 months).
- The brand must have a website (not mandatory) with the brand name as its domain.
- The brand must be active on social media (at least one platform).
- The entity (brand) must be operating in one (or more) of the listed categories.
- The entity (brand) must be South African or operate on the African continent.
- Brands that are nominated in the Charities and NPO category, must be registered and have an NPO number.
- Brand owners should not have any criminal record or current legal disputes.
- For a brand with any legal/litigation matters pending or underway, disclosure will be needed
- Entrants must provide proof of business registration ie. registration documentation which will be required at a later stage.
- The business must be in operation and a going concern.
- The brand must disclose any matters that may bring disrepute/reputational risk to themselves, their sponsors, and the overall YOBA Awards
*Brand owner must either be 18 or 35 by the date of receipt of the Award/s.
2024 Winners
- Thebe Magugu – Global Excellence Award
- Robot Boii – Overall Top Brand
- Botlhale AI Solutions – Top Technology Brand
- Bee Travel SA – Top Travel and Tourism Brand
- Nomzamo Lighthouse Foundation – Top NPO & Charities Brand
- Millennial Mindset Media – Top Media Brand
- Ghemere – Top Food and Beverage Brand
- Konkhe Kuhamba Kahle – Top Footwear & Accessories Brand
- Active Lifestyle – Top Apparel Brand
- Robot Boii – Top Personalities and Influencers Brand
- Kimmy’s Creation – Top Homeware Brand
- Young Barber – Top Hair and Beauty Brand
- Optimum Poultry – Top Agriculture Brand
- Sivuyile Mentorship Academy – Top Education Brand
- Mdu Cleaning Services – Top Services Brand
- Zuri Nutrition – Top Health and Wellness Brand
- Karabo Poppy – Top Creative & Arts Brand
- The Hills Collection – Top East African Brand
- Grace Gras Empire – Top Manufacturing Brand
- Batoka Africa – Top SADC Brand
- Kemz Mama – Top West African Brand