Lay’s is thrilled to announce its role as an Official Sponsor for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ and the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™. This exciting partnership builds on Lay’s previous successes as a Regional Supporter during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ and a Tournament Supporter for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™.
What the Partnership Means
This collaboration brings Lay’s, a beloved snack brand, together with the FIFA World Cup, the premier global football event for men and women. The goal is to enhance the excitement of football and engage fans everywhere.
Steven Williams, CEO of Frito-Lay and Quaker North America, emphasized the brand’s commitment to uniting football fans through shared experiences.
“Joining Fifa as a regional sponsor in 2022 was a landmark moment for Frito-Lay, and we’re incredibly proud to have laid the groundwork for the next step of making our partnership global,” says Steven Williams
Lay’s Engagement Plans
As an Official Sponsor, Lay’s will partner with popular brands like Doritos, Cheetos, Tostitos, and more to offer fans unique experiences, merchandise, and activities that bring them closer to the action.
“The Lay’s brand has a long history of bringing fans together through a shared love for the game, and we look forward to creating even more iconic moments as we continue to use our brands to unite and inspire Fifa World Cup and Fifa Women’s World Cup fans all over the world,” says William
Tournament Highlights
FIFA World Cup 2026™: The first World Cup featuring 48 teams, hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™: Historic as the first tournament hosted in South America.
Special Fan Initiatives
Lay’s will introduce a “Fan of the Match” feature, recognizing passionate supporters at each game and providing them with unforgettable experiences.
Engaging Fans
Leading up to and during the tournaments, Lay’s will run special promotions in stores and online, display branding on LED boards at matches, and create memorable experiences at FIFA fan zones in host cities.
This partnership aims to deliver an exceptional football experience, enhancing fan engagement through exciting activities and rewards.
The Local Fashion Police is back for its 4th year! Proudly South African has joined forces with FNB to spotlight local fashion talent in a campaign celebrating homegrown style. This year’s theme is investigative storytelling, adding a fresh twist to South Africa’s fashion scene. Leading the charge are some of the country’s most iconic designers, who will be judging this year’s stylish competition and spotlighting homegrown style like never before.
Meet the Stylish Judges
Four influential fashion designers, Orapeleng Module, Jessica Jane Molebatsi, Ole Ledimo, and Mzukisi Mbane, are on a mission to find the most stylish supporters of local fashion. They are determined to spot those who proudly wear and support South African designs. Once they identify their targets, these trendsetters will be named the 2024 Local Fashion lovers and supporters.
These judges are known for their creativity and passion for promoting local talent. They will play a key role in selecting the most promising individuals who truly represent the Proudly South African spirit. With their different experiences, this year’s competition is set to not only showcase the best in local fashion but also encourage creativity and highlight the importance of supporting locally made clothing.
The Chief Marketing Officer of Proudly SA Happy MaKhumalo Ngidi, shared her enthusiasm, stating, “We’re thrilled to kick off the fourth instalment of this impactful initiative, the brainchild of our organisation in an effort to keep pushing boundaries and tackle our localisation agenda using different platforms. At Proudly SA, we take pride in creating platforms that empower each sector to flourish, offering a unique opportunity for direct engagement between brands and their consumers. The Local Fashion Police campaign doesn’t just spotlight fashion; it also holds consumers accountable on how they spend their rand, encouraging them to consciously choose locally made garments in their everyday lives”.
Why Supporting Local Fashion Matters
Supporting local fashion businesses is important. It helps create jobs, boosts the economy, and strengthens the value chain in the Retail, Clothing, Textile, Footwear, and Leather (R-CTFL) sector. By choosing locally made products, consumers help sustain South African designers and manufacturers. This support is crucial in ensuring that the industry continues to grow and provide opportunities for many South Africans. Additionally, it fosters a sense of pride in homegrown talent and contributes to the overall economic development of the country.
Happy MaKhumalo Ngidi, Chief Marketing Officer of Proudly SA, explains the campaign’s goal, “We want to encourage people to spend their money on locally made clothes. This helps our designers and boosts our economy.”
Join the Competition and Win Big
For the first time, FNB, South Africa’s Best Small Business Bank, is working with the Local Fashion Police and Proudly SA. This partnership will bring more attention to the exciting creativity and talent in South Africa’s fashion industry.
Andiswa Bata, CEO of FNB Business, puts emphasis on the importance of supporting and buying from, local businesses in the fashion business. “Our ability to achieve sustainable economic growth is highly dependent on the success of our country’s local businesses. SMEs contribute significantly to the country’s economic growth making them fundamental to creating employment. We acknowledge the crucial role local businesses play in our economy and being part of the Proudly South African Local Fashion Police initiative embodies our efforts to invest, build, and monetise their businesses in the fashion industry.”
Final Event: A Fashion Show Extravaganza
Consumers are encouraged to share their photos or videos of themselves wearing locally designed clothes. They must mention where the clothing was bought by showing the country of origin. To enter the competition, participants must use special hashtags. Proudly SA, FNB, and the judges are searching for four winners, each with a chance to win R40,000 worth of fashion from one of the Local Fashion Police judges. The prize money will go directly to the designer who picks each winner, helping support their brand. In return, winners will receive custom-made clothing worth R40,000, aligning with the campaign’s goal to promote and support local talent.
The judges will evaluate participants through a series of investigations, focusing on design, craftsmanship, and originality. The competition will end with a fantastic fashion show, where the winners will have the incredible experience of walking the runway in designs by the top judges.
Sponsored by FNB, the Local Fashion Police 2024 campaign invites everyone to celebrate South African fashion and make a difference by choosing local.
Read more: Proudly South African| FNB| Partnerships| Pat on Brands
Woolworths, one of the big retailers in South Africa, has reaffirmed its commitment to fighting hunger by extending its partnership with FoodForward SA (FFSA) for another three years. By renewing this collaboration, Woolworths is investing R3.45 million to strengthen FoodFoward SA’s initiatives in food distribution and community support.
Woolworths’ Role in Partnership with FoodForward SA
Over the past six years, Woolworths has been dedicated to supporting the FFSA, contributing a total of R6 million towards efforts to alleviate food insecurity across the nation. This extended partnership not only highlights Woolworths’ ongoing commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) but also underscores its strategic alignment with sustainability goals and community welfare.
About 14 million out of 61 million South Africans go hungry every day, not because there is a food shortage in South Africa but because 1 third of people in the country cannot afford to buy food and feed themselves. The partnership with Woolworths and FFSA ensures that healthy quality food reaches an approximate number of 920,000 needy people daily, impacting access to healthy nutritious meals.
Image: FoodFoward SA
FoodForward SA changes South African’s lives through Woolworth
In 2009 FFSA established a platform called FoodShare which efficiently manages surplus food donations from the Woolworth stores nationwide. FFSA distributed an impressive 21,760 tons of food, with Woolworths’ contributions accounting for 65% of this total through the FoodShare platform. This equates to approximately 56.6 million meals provided to those in need, demonstrating the huge impact of corporate partnerships in addressing food insecurity.
Beyond food distribution, Woolworths’ support extends to FFSA’s initiatives in youth empowerment and skills development within the food supply chain. Since its commencement in 2019, FFSA’s supply chain internship program has trained over 60 young adults in essential skills such as warehousing, stock management, and logistics. This program, which initially began in Cape Town, has expanded to regions like KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, and Rustenburg, offering employment opportunities to 19 interns who have successfully transitioned into permanent roles within the organization.
Zinzi Mgolodela, Director of Corporate Affairs at Woolworths, expressed gratitude for the extended partnership, emphasizing its alignment with Woolworths’ broader sustainability agenda and commitment to social inclusivity. She highlighted the positive outcomes of the collaboration, including reduced food waste, lower carbon emissions, and enhanced community resilience.
The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards in partnership with Brand South Africa, will honour SA’s renowned fashion designer, Thebe Magugu at this year’s YOBAs ceremony, set to take place on 22 June in Sandton. For the first time in 3 years, the YOBAs will be introducing a special award that aims to celebrate and honour local youth-owned brands that are excelling in their fields and challenge the status-quo.
“As Brand South Africa, we are delighted to partner with the YOBAs as they celebrate and put a spotlight on initiatives driven by young people, particularly entrepreneurs who are created solutions to address the country’s social and economic challenges, as well as create the much-needed jobs for other young people”.
Embracing South African heritage, the YOBAs’ mission is to recognize Thebe for the work that he does and his contributions in the fashion industry, not only in South Africa but globally.
Thebe Magugu, hailing from Kimberley, South Africa, has gained global acclaim for his fashion label, which beautifully blends traditional South African craftsmanship with modern styles.
One of his recent collections, named LOBOLA, has garnered particular attention. This collection is celebrated for its bold reinterpretation of traditional South African wedding customs, showcasing intricate beadwork and vibrant fabrics that tell stories of cultural pride and identity.
source: Vogue
Thebe’s accolades include winning the prestigious LVMH Prize for Young Fashion Designers in 2019, making him the first African to be awarded the prize.
In addition to his collections, Thebe Magugu has collaborated with global brands like Adidas, bringing his unique South African perspective to a wider audience. The collaboration with Adidas has been celebrated for merging high fashion with sportswear, reflecting Thebe’s versatility and creativity.
The partnership between the YOBAs and Brand South Africa highlights a shared commitment to celebrating South African excellence on a global stage. Brand SA shines as an organization that is dedicated to promoting the positive image of South Africa globally. The partnership with the YOBAs aim to celebrate and honour Thebe as a cultural ambassador whose work not only showcases South African heritage but also bridges cultural gaps through fashion innovation.
“We are excited to introduce this special award. We are also thrilled that our first recipient will be Thebe Magugu. Ours is to say we see him; we see his work and contributions and we would like honour him and his brand’s excellence. His designs not only reflect our heritage but also push boundaries in the fashion world,” says Pat Mahlangu, founder of the YOBAs.
The Top 16 YOBAs have again partnered with KnM Auditors Inc, a member firm of the KnM Group. KnM, which is South Africa’s leading and proudly black-owned professional services specializing in Audit, Tax and Advisory services is yet to help maintain the credibility of the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards (YOBAs) for the third time in a row.
With the voting stages having closed, KnM will now begin their responsibility of auditing all processes to guarantee transparency and integrity in the selection of winners.
With a proven track record in financial and process auditing, KnM brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. They also advocate for positioning Africa in the forefront and the world after. KnM’s mission is to improve the day-to-day operational efficiency for all clients, thus enabling clients to focus on governance and growth for their businesses.
KnM’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of accuracy and fairness aligns perfectly with the ethos of the YOBAs, making them the ideal choice to oversee this crucial aspect of the event.
Peterson Khumalo, KnM Group MD
“We are thrilled to be back as auditors for the YOBAs. Our objective is to ensure that every step of the selection process is conducted with the utmost integrity, giving nominees and participants the confidence that the winners truly deserve their recognition. Our slogan ‘Confident about the future’, shows that we the YOBAs to be an important platform that aims to encourage youth entrepreneurship by recognising and celebrating young entrepreneurs,” says Peterson Khumalo, Group MD of KnM.
Pat Mahlangu, Founder and CEO of the YOBAs says, “We are happy to welcome KnM as our auditors again this year. Partnering with KnM once more reaffirms our commitment to transparency and excellence in the YOBAs. With their expertise, we ensure that the recognition given to the winners will be truly earned. Together, we aim to elevate youth-owned brands and build a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Africa”.
The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards (YOBAs) proudly announces their partnership with City Lodge Hotels for the upcoming YOBAs event. As part of the collaboration, City Lodge Hotels will serve as the exclusive accommodation partner, providing a seamless and luxurious stay experience for the YOBAs attendees and guests.
Acknowledging the importance of comfortable and convenient accommodation for guests traveling to attend the YOBAs event, City Lodge Hotels will extend 30% off Best Available Rates (BAR) at select City Lodge Hotel brand properties and 10% off BAR at a select Road Lodge to all guests who choose to book their accommodation directly with the hotels or on the group’s website (www.citylodgehotels.com) for the duration of the event at the following hotels:
Delegates can take advantage of the offer by using the code YOBA when booking directly with the hotels or on the website.
“We are thrilled to partner with City Lodge Hotels for this year’s YOBAs. Their reputation for excellence and commitment to guest satisfaction aligns perfectly with our values, ensuring that our attendees have an unforgettable experience both on and off the blue carpet,” says Pat Mahlangu, Founder of the YOBAs.
With its extensive network of contemporary and stylish hotels across South Africa, as well as one hotel each in Windhoek in Namibia, Gaborone in Botswana; and Maputo in Mozambique, City Lodge Hotels has established itself as a premier destination for travellers seeking comfort, convenience, and exceptional service. Boasting modern amenities, well-appointed rooms, and personalised hospitality, City Lodge Hotels epitomises the perfect blend of comfort and ease. Its tagline says it all, “Life is hard. Check into easy.”
“We are delighted to be chosen as the official accommodation provider for the YOBAs. Our team is dedicated to providing a welcoming and hospitable stay for all our guests, ensuring they feel pampered and well cared for throughout their stay, from the moment they check in to our hotels,” says Zuki Jantjies, Divisional Director of Sales and Marketing at City Lodge Hotels.
Legends Barber, Africa’s no1 barbershop is paying it forward at the 3rd annual Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards (YOBAs) by sponsoring the Top Services Category. Last year, Legends Barber won the Top Service Brand and Overall Top Brand at the 2nd annual YOBAs.
Established in 2011 on a stoep in Elderado Park, Legends Barber employs over 600 people (majority of them being youth) in 70+ branches across 5 African countries. The brand is the epitome of what the youth can achieve despite where they come from. Legends Barber is the embodiment of youth excellence.
Renowned for celebrating youth excellence, the Top 16 YOBAs aim to inspire and encourage young people to pursue entrepreneurship and to support the growth of small businesses across the African continent.
By sponsoring the Top Services Category, Legends Barber continues its tradition of supporting excellence and quality service provision.
What makes this sponsorship particularly special is that Legends Barber will be sponsoring a category that they won in 2023. This achievement highlights Legends Barber’s dedication to not only setting the standard but also supporting and uplifting others within the industry.
The winner of this category will receive an opportunity to be mentored by the founder of Legends Barber, Mr Sheldon Tatchell.
“Our brand was built on the back to excellent customer service and we are thrilled to be sponsoring the Top Services Category at this year’s YOBAs. At Legends Barber, we understand the importance of recognizing and celebrating excellence. It is an honour for us to support the Top Services category and continue our commitment to support innovation and quality in our industry,” said Sheldon Tatchell, founder of Legends Barber and 2024 Top 16 YOBAs Jury member.
Sheldon Tatchell, Founder of Legends Barber
Echoing Legends Barber, Pat Mahlangu, founder of the YOBAs, says “We are truly delighted to welcome Legends Barber as a partner for the Top Services Category. They won in the same category last year and this year they will be supporting the same category. To us, it proves that they believe in the work of the YOBAs and their dedication to excellence aligns perfectly with the values of the YOBAs. We are confident that their support will further elevate the standard of quality of the YOBAs and will inspire more youth”.
The YOBAs will take place on the 22nd of June 2024 at The Capital on The Park, 101 Katherine Str. Sandown, Sandton. The public is encouraged to attend by booking their seats here. For more information about Legends Barber, visit their website, www.legends-barber.com. For more information on the YOBAs please and this year’s finalists, visit, www.top16yoba.africa
The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards (YOBAs) are bringing a dynamic duo to host its 3rd annual edition of its awards show. Introducing the talented TV presenter, radio personality, MC and voice-over artist, Kgosi Rankhumise, alongside the esteemed former Miss Botswana, Palesa Molefe, as they take the stage to host an evening of celebration and recognition of youth-owned brands.
Kgosi Rankhumise, TV & Media Personality
About Kgosi
Known for his captivating presence on the big screen, Kgosi’s versatility as a media personality has captivated audiences in South Africa, making him the perfect choice to lead this year’s YOBAs. His journey is a testament to his creative brilliance and love for storytelling. Starting from being a radio host at Impact Radio in 2020, where he earned two radio nominations for his Afternoon Drive, to now being a TV presenter at eTV’s Morning Show; Kgosi’s ability to captivate his audience remains his biggest strength.
“Stepping onto the stage of the YOBAs as a host is a moment of pride for me. It’s not just about presenting; it’s about connecting with the energy and passion of the incredible young business owners, as well as the audience. Together with Palesa, we’re ready to make the evening of the YOBAs unforgettable”.
Kgosi displays his versatility by presenting news, sports and lifestyle inserts, and exclusive interviews with local and international guests.
Palesa Molefe, Author and Former Miss Botswana
About Palesa
Joining him is the esteemed former Miss Botswana, Palesa Molefe, whose reign in 2021 showcased her grace, poise and commitment to excellence. Beyond her being Miss Botswana 2021, Palesa also walked the stage of Miss World 2021 in Puerto Rico, where she made it to the Top 30. Palesa’s career spans diverse industries, including being an Actress, Writer and Producer. She is also a founder of an NGO called United Artists where they illuminate the value of artists and mental health in society.
Early this year, Palesa ventured into a new role as an author, where she wrote her first book called, ‘O Shapo, O Sho?’ Written in Setswana, the children’s book consists of a collection of affirmations meant to ignite a spark of self-discovery and resilience in the hearts of young Batswana readers. The book is about a girl child, who is able to overcome her feelings of fear, sadness and shyness through the power of positive thinking.
Talking about the YOBAs, Palesa says, “Hosting the YOBAs this year is such a great honour, one that resonates deeply with my commitment to celebrating excellence and innovation. It’s a platform where we recognise and celebrate the brilliance of youth-owned brands, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to be a part of it”.
Together, Palesa and Kgosi promise a memorable evening; honouring youth-owned brands and their achievements in their respective fields. Their collective expertise and magnetic personalities are set to elevate the YOBAs to new heights, leaving a lasting impression on all guests.
The YOBAs founder and CEO, Pat Mahlangu beams, “Palesa and Kgosi bring a perfect blend of charisma, talent, and passion to the forefront of this year’s awards. Their individual journeys and collective chemistry promise to infuse the YOBAs with a new level of excitement and inspiration. We’re honoured to have them as our hosts, guiding us through a night where we will be celebrating youth excellence”.
Proudly South African has joined the prestigious Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards as a category partner. Proudly SA will be the category partner for the Top Manufacturing Category – marking a significant step forward in its mission to empower made in South Africa brands. The partnership between the YOBAs and Proudly SA highlights Proudly SA’s unwavering commitment to drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth among South Africa.
Proudly SA’s collaboration with the Top Manufacturing category at the upcoming awards ceremony, not only aims to promote local manufacturing but also showcases its belief in the transformative power of youth-led innovation within the sector.
“Our alliance with Proudly SA is one that solidifies our mission of celebrating youth excellence in brand building. Together with Proudly SA, we can inspire more young entrepreneurs to enter the manufacturing sector and produce their brands locally and make a tangible impact on South Africa’s economy through job creation,” says Pat Mahlangu, founder and CEO of the YOBAs.
Echoing this sentiment, Proudly SA Chief Marketing Officer, Happy MaKhumalo Ngidi says, “At Proudly SA, we are unwavering in our commitment to harnessing the transformative power of our youth. Our endorsement of the Top 16 YOBAs is a strategic move to catalyse economic growth and job creation. These young entrepreneurs are the vanguard of innovation, and by celebrating their achievements, we are not just recognizing their potential—we are actively investing in the future of our nation thus leading to entrepreneurship & job opportunities. We provide robust support to empower these trailblazers to thrive in a competitive market, thereby driving sustained economic progress and generating much-needed employment opportunities”.
Proudly SA has earned a sterling reputation for its persistent support of local businesses and products, championing the diversity of South African entrepreneurship and creativity. They are committed to promoting economic growth and job creation, their mission encompasses fostering a culture of buying local, ensuring that South Africans recognize the immense value and quality offered by homegrown businesses.
“By supporting initiatives like the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards, we reaffirm our commitment to showcasing the exceptional quality and ingenuity that South Africa has to offer, while driving sustainable growth and empowerment for future generations,” Happy concludes.
Set to take place on 22 June in Sandton, the Top 16 YOBAs have been recognized as the pinnacle of excellence within South Africa’s youth entrepreneurial landscape for the past 3 years. Now, with Proudly SA’s support in the Top Manufacturing Category, these esteemed awards are poised to reach even greater heights, celebrating the remarkable achievements of young entrepreneurs.
Buli Ndlovu, Executive Head: Business & Retail Banking, Nedbank
On Friday, 31 May 2024, Pat On Brands joined the MarketingFridays community at the Egrek Cinema for an insightful session on with Buli Ndlovu – the marketing executive for Retail and Business Banking at Nedbank . Buli kicked off her presentation by sharing her journey as a marketer and the lessons she learned from the different roles she occupied. Be it when she was selling beers at SAB or selling airtime at MTN.
We are in an industry that believes that you are either a sales organisation or a brand organisation to be successful. Buli believes in the power of “AND” where companies that embrace both sales and brand work. Sales is more of a short-term tactic that is crucial for revenue generation whilst brand is more long term. She argues that too much focus on short-term sales can actually harm the brand in the long run. On the other hand, too much focus on brand can hinder revenue growth. The key is to have a balanced approach to ensure business growth in the long run.
Pat On Brands CEO, Pat Mahlangu and Buli Ndlovu, Executive Head: Business & Retail Banking, Nedbank
According to a study by by the Australian Consumer and Retail Studies Association (ACRSA), 60% of consumers will choose a brand they recognise and trust. This highlights the significance of investing in long-term branding efforts to gain consumer loyalty and competitive advantage in the market.
Image: Suppplied
She posed a challenge to the Marketers in the room on how they can think around the relationship between brand building and sales. On the question of how marketers can produce creative brand work in industries that highly regulated, she said “creativity loves constraints. The banking industry is one that is highly regulated but it forces us to think outside of the proverbial box to still produce work that will resonate with our customers.
MarketingFridays are hosted every second month on a Friday, with the purpose creating a platform where Marketers can learn and network.
For more information on MarketingFridays, you can visit https://www.marketingfridays.com or follow @marketingfridays on all social media channels.
A significant milestone took place at the local Idas Valley Primary School in Stellenbosch on Monday, 29 April. The school, in collaboration with leading renewable energy solutions provider Wetility, unveiled its newly installed solar energy system. This markets a transformative moment for the school, its pupils and the surrounding community and facilitated in collaboration with the Stellenbosch University-affiliated energy efficiency consultancy GreenX.
The inauguration event, aptly named Solar System Inauguration Day, commenced with a special assembly, bringing together learners and teachers to celebrate this momentous occasion. Engaging presentations, led by Wetility’s Chief of Staff Johanna Horz and Project Engineer Chris Momoh as well as GreenX’s CEO Dr. Jason Samuels, covered topics ranging from the fundamentals of solar energy to its benefits for the environment and community. The presentations were followed by a Q&A session with Grade 7 learners.
The presentation started with a surprise video by Springbok legend and Wetility Brand Ambassador, Tendai “The Beast” Mtawarira. The Beast expressed his pride in Wetility’s work to provide solar energy to Idas Valley Primary School and making the school’s learners “solar energy champions”.
“I absolutely love the concept of empowering young students through an initiative that is driven by the core values of environmental responsibility, awareness and sustainability. It’s a project that I fully support and I hope it will serve as an inspiration to others to make such meaningful contributions in the community.”
He added: “It’s such a proud moment to be associated with Wetility’s incredible initiative at Idas Valley Primary School. There is no doubt that the project will have massive benefits for the school and its pupils, and it perfectly demonstrates Wetility’s commitment to tangible innovation and outreach”.
Catering to the needs of its students and community, the partnership with Idas Valley Primary School and Wetility not only fosters environmental sustainability but also bolsters the school’s financial viability. Through a subscription-based model, the school aims to substantially reduce operational costs, ensuring uninterrupted functioning even during times of load shedding and power outages.
Mr. Anton Gordon, Principal of Idas Valley Primary School, highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating “The biggest impact for us will be that we are not going to lose any teaching time! We keep the lights on. Another difficulty for us is when we cannot reach the parents because networks are down. That problem will be gone now.”
The highlight of the day was the official showcasing the new solar system installed on the school premises to the teachers and learners and explaining its capacity, functionality and environmental impact. Principal Anton Gorden hopes: “Maybe it will also inspire some of our learners to go into university and to study solar energy.”
With this initiative, the Idas Valley Primary School, Wetility, and GreenX aim to inspire other schools across the country in their transition towards a greener and more sustainable future.
For more information about Wetility, visit www.wetility.energy
The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards proudly announces Mosa Ntwampe as the Chairperson of the Jury for the upcoming third annual YOBAs. With his extensive experience and remarkable achievements in brand and communications strategy, Mosa brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the esteemed panel of judges.
The YOBAs, an initiative dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the outstanding achievements of young entrepreneurs in Africa, is thrilled to welcome Mosa to lead the jury. As a seasoned marketing professional with over a decade of industry experience, Mosa has demonstrated an exceptional ability to drive success and innovation in his field.
Throughout his career, Mosa has collaborated with a diverse range of brands, including state-owned entities, regulatory bodies, educational institutions, financial services, and FMCG companies. His passion, dedication, and distinctive talent for communication have driven him to remarkable career heights, earning him the reputation of a dynamic and influential figure in the marketing landscape.
Mosa’s commitment to excellence and his belief in the transformative power of marketing align perfectly with the mission of the YOBAs. His mantra, “I Change Lives for A Living,” reflects his deep-seated commitment to making a positive impact through his work. As a public speaker known for his captivating presence and flamboyant delivery, Mosa will undoubtedly inspire and motivate the next generation of entrepreneurs.
In addition to his role as Chairperson of the Jury for the YOBAs, Mosa currently serves as the Group Head of Marketing & Corporate Communications for Sakhumnotho Group Holdings and all its sub-entities. His leadership and strategic vision continue to drive growth and success for the organization.
“We are honoured to have Mosa Ntwampe lead the jury for the 3rd Annual Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards. His expertise and passion for empowering young entrepreneurs will undoubtedly enhance the judging process and ensure that we recognize the most deserving brands,” said Pat Mahlangu, Founder and CEO of the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards.
Mosa also brings valuable experience to the role, having served as a member of the Jury in both 2022 and 2023. His insights and dedication to fostering youth entrepreneurship make him an invaluable asset to the judging panel.
Mosa expressed his excitement for the opportunity, stating, “I am honoured to chair the jury for this year’s YOBAs. I believe Sadika Fakir did an exceptional job and having the baton passed on from her to me is an absolute honour. This platform represents the future of entrepreneurship in Africa, and I am committed to ensuring that we identify and celebrate the innovative and impactful ventures created by our young entrepreneurs”.
For more information about the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards, please visit www.top16yoba.africa
In a strategic move to enhance its member rewards program, Virgin Active has recently announced a promising partnership with The Sneaker Shack, a prominent sneaker care outfit. The collaboration aims to provide added value to Virgin Active’s nationwide membership base of approximately 600,000 individuals while promoting an ethos of holistic wellness.
Image: The Sneaker Shack
An article shared by Primedia announced the partnership, highlighting Virgin Active’s commitment to expanding its cross-sector wellness ecosystem through meaningful collaborations. Patrick Hardy, Head of Strategic Partnerships at Virgin Active, emphasized the significance of the collaboration, stating, “This new collaboration with The Sneaker Shack not only gives Virgin Active members another great reason to lace up their sneakers and hit the gym, but reinforces all of the benefits of maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle”.
Strategic Planning and Preparation
In an exclusive interview with Primedia’s Motheo Khoaripe, Lolo Ndlovu, the Founder and CEO of The Sneaker Shack, shared insights into the genesis of the partnership and its potential impact on both parties involved. Ndlovu revealed that the groundwork for the collaboration had been laid over the course of 6-12 months, indicating the thoroughness and dedication invested in the alliance.
For The Sneaker Shack, access to Virgin Active’s extensive membership base represents a significant opportunity for growth and exposure. Ndlovu expressed excitement about the prospect of enhancing the rewards experience for Virgin Active members, underscoring the strategic advantage of tapping into such a vast network.
Image: My Broadband
Navigating Challenges and Ensuring Scalability
However, with growth comes challenges, and Lolo acknowledged the importance of scalability for his business. By implementing measures to manage a potential surge in demand, The Sneaker Shack aims to ensure a seamless and gradual expansion process. Lolo emphasized the importance of viewing increased demand as a positive challenge, one that propels the company towards accelerated growth and operational excellence.
As the partnership between Virgin Active and The Sneaker Shack takes shape, it symbolizes more than just a business arrangement. It reflects a shared commitment to promoting wellness, fitness, and self-care within the community. By offering members the convenience of sneaker care services as part of their fitness journey, Virgin Active continues to reinforce its position as a holistic wellness provider, catering to the diverse needs of its clientele.
A Promising Future of Mutual Growth
The collaboration between Virgin Active and The Sneaker Shack holds great promise for both parties, offering mutual benefits and opportunities for growth. As they embark on this journey together, they pave the way for future collaborations that prioritize the well-being and satisfaction of their members.
In the world of fashion, March has been a month of triumph and innovation for Maxhosa Africa. Renowned for its captivating fusion of traditional African patterns with contemporary design, Maxhosa Africa has once again captivated the hearts of fashion enthusiasts worldwide with its ground-breaking innovative collaborations. This month we are celebrating all their wins and shine a spotlight to Maxhosa Africa as Brand of The Month.
Paris Fashion Week Debut
The month of March marked a significant milestone for Maxhosa Africa as the brand made its debut at Paris Fashion Week. The event provided a global platform for showcasing the brand’s rich cultural heritage and cutting-edge designs. Maxhosa’s presence at Paris Fashion Week highlighted its growing influence in the international fashion scene, garnering praise and admiration from critics and fashion aficionados alike.
Image: Twitter
Diversification of Lifestyle Offerings
Breaking barriers beyond traditional fashion, Maxhosa also expanded its collection by introducing innovative lifestyle products. The luxury brand collaborated with local tile manufacturer Tile Africa and the wildly popular Capetonian Fields Bar.
Earlier this month, we highlighted that Maxhosa continues to push boundaries through its collaborative endeavors, exemplified by the recent partnership with Fieldbar. The dynamic collaboration seamlessly blends fashion and lifestyle, resulting in a unique fusion of style and functionality.
Both the tiles and cooler box embody the same ethos of authenticity and creativity that defines Maxhosa’s fashion line. This bold move not only showcases the brand’s versatility but also reinforces its commitment to redefining African luxury.
Empowering Women Through Fashion
In an article shared by TrueLove, Maxhosa unveiled its upcoming collection with a special focus on celebrating and empowering women. Through its distinctive designs and heartfelt narratives, the brand pays homage to the strength, resilience, and beauty of women across the globe. This collection not only exemplifies Maxhosa Africa’s artistic prowess but also its unwavering commitment to championing inclusivity and diversity in the fashion industry.
On the other hand, Laduma Ngxokolo, the founder of Maxhosa Africa, also unveiled the brand’s latest runway collection accompanied by a soundtrack. This fusion of fashion and music not only elevated the sensory experience for audiences but also highlights the brand’s commitment to creating immersive and culturally echoing narratives. Through this innovative approach, Maxhosa continues to redefine the boundaries of fashion as a multi-sensory art form.
Image: Okay Africa
Global Expansion
Looking back to last year, Maxhosa made headlines with the announcement of its first international store opening in New York City. This strategic move not only signifies the brand’s global ambitions but also reinforces its position as a leading exponent of African luxury on the world stage.
As the month of March draws to a close, Maxhosa Africa stands as a beacon of creativity, innovation, and cultural pride in the fashion landscape. With each ground-breaking initiative and collaborative endeavour, the brand continues to redefine the boundaries of African luxury while inspiring audiences worldwide.
BBC Studios has teamed up with the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) to introduce new content block called BBC Primetime. BBC Primetime promising to transform South African television. This collaboration will offer viewers a hand-picked selection of top-tier dramas, factual entertainment, and documentaries from the esteemed BBC Studios catalogue.
Image: BizCommunity
A New Era of Primetime Entertainment
Scheduled to debut in May 2024, BBC Primetime will occupy the weeknight slots from 21:00 to 23:00 on SABC 3 (S3), expanding its reach to SABC+. This marks BBC Studios’ most extensive branded service in EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa), ensuring an unmatched entertainment experience for millions of South African households.
A Stellar Line-up of Engaging Content
Among the line-up are acclaimed titles such as the psychological crime thriller Luther, featuring the charismatic Idris Elba, the gripping medical drama Critical, the adrenaline-fueled motoring show Top Gear (seasons 14-17), and the delightful romantic comedy Cheaters. Additionally, viewers can follow the compelling documentary series Louis Theroux: Forbidden America, exploring various facets of American entertainment and culture.
Excitement from BBC Studio
Pierre Cloete, the Commercial Director at BBC Studios in Africa, expressed his excitement for this ground-breaking venture, stating, “I am thrilled to unveil our inaugural BBC branded block in Africa in collaboration with SABC. BBC Primetime will cater to S3 audiences with a meticulously curated selection of extraordinary programming from our acclaimed catalogue. From gripping thrillers to poignant documentaries, this marks our debut for free-to-air audiences in South Africa, granting access to BBC Studios’ stellar shows to 13 million homes. I eagerly anticipate the 2024 launch”.
Image:
Anticipation from SABC
Echoing Cloete’s sentiments, Sane Zondi, Programming Manager at SABC, highlighted the significance of this partnership in delivering premium international content to viewers.
“This partnership with BBC Studios is born out of the need for us to fulfil our commitment to delivering high-quality international content to our viewers. We are excited to have access to a vast catalogue from the BBC, and the unlimited world-class entertainment our viewers will be able to enjoy through BBC Primetime on S3. The deal allows us to bring back some of the iconic BBC titles to our viewers which formed weekly habitual viewing, with Top Gear being the most notable one. I know our viewers will be delighted for the return to their screens and I know it will form their weekly engagements with us. There is a range of new content which we are keen for our audiences to watch. We look forward to seeing some of the sentiments and reactions across our social media platforms on this great new era on our channel”.
As the countdown to May 2024 begins, the collaboration between BBC Studios and SABC highlights a new era in South African television. It is also offering redefining primetime entertainment in the region.
Maxhosa Africa, renowned for its fusion of tradition and contemporary design, is embarking on a journey to redefine luxury living. In a strategic move to expand its lifestyle offerings, the fashion powerhouse has ventured into a ground-breaking collaboration with Fieldbar, a trendsetting cooler box brand. This is to create an enticing blend of style and functionality.
With a keen eye for design innovation, Maxhosa has taken its partnership with Fieldbar to new heights by infusing the cooler boxes with its iconic aesthetic. By introducing custom-made straps decorated with Maxhosa’s signature patterns, the collaboration has elevated the cooler box into a statement piece, seamlessly blending fashion with utility. This unique touch not only enhances the appeal of the cooler boxes but also reflects Maxhosa’s commitment to artistry and attention to detail.
Laduma Ngxokolo, Founder of Maxhosa Africa
Expanding Horizons in Lifestyle Living
Maxhosa’s venture into the realm of luxury home and lifestyle living extends beyond the collaboration with Fieldbar. The brand’s visionary approach includes the introduction of lavish décor tiles and handcrafted cooler boxes, adding a touch of opulence to modern living spaces. Building upon its existing homeware collection, which features customizable cushions, curtains, and rugs, Maxhosa’s expansion into décor tiles and cooler boxes highlights its commitment to offering holistic lifestyle solutions that embody African heritage and modern sophistication.
Furthermore, Maxhosa Africa and Fieldbar’s collaboration spreads beyond Fieldbar. The brand also has a partnership with local tile manufacturer Tile Africa. These collaborations not only amplify the brand’s reach but also showcase its dedication to supporting local skill and innovation on a global stage.
Image: Okay Africa
A Reflective Journey
At the moment, Maxhosa is preparing to make its mark on the international stage with the opening of its first pop-up store in the U.S. The brand is still captivating audiences with its AW 2024 collection. The collection titled “My Conviction,” pays homage to the brand’s journey over the past eleven years, seamlessly blending elements from previous collections with fresh, contemporary touches.
In a video shared by Haute Couture News, Laduma Ngxokolo, Founder of Maxhosa Africa said “I revisited some of the ideas I had in the past and changed them a little bit. I’ve had a calendar of designs for the past 15 years that I’ve created, some have never been seen before or most of our customers don’t know them, so I took some of those ideas and infused them into the new collection and updated some of them”.
Through this reflective approach, Maxhosa reaffirms its commitment to celebrating African culture and heritage while embracing forward-thinking design concepts.
Brands’ Commitment to Quality and Sustainability
Image: Twitter
In addition to its creativity, Maxhosa remains committed to sustainability and longevity – a philosophy shared by its collaborators at Fieldbar. With a focus on quality artistry and durability, Fieldbar’s “drinks boxes” and “gin trunks” symbolize the character of sustainable design. By offering repairable and replaceable parts, Fieldbar embodies the timeless appeal of quality products.
Moreover, the collaboration between these two brands offer consumers a spectrum of choices with cooler boxes available in six different colours at a price of R3000, available on Maxhosa Africa.
In essence, Maxhosa Africa and Fieldbar’s collaboration represents a beautiful union of tradition, innovation, artistry, and functionality. Through their shared commitment to excellence and sustainability, the two brands are not only redefining luxury living but also shaping the future of African-inspired lifestyle aesthetics on a global scale.
This week we shine the spotlight on Heineken as our brand of the week, for their Heineken Green Zones and innovative bottle design. We are celebrating their commitment to sustainability and community development. Their latest initiative, Heineken Green Zones, in partnership with The Greenpop Foundation, highlights the brand’s dedication to promoting sustainability and community development. These Green Zones, does not only feature indigenous plants but also incorporate food gardens and inspiring art installations. The significant investment in community development reflects Heineken’s contribution to creating positive social and environmental impact.
Heineken Green Zone, Sakhikhaya Youth Development Centre in Lawley
Strategic Rollout and Impact
The rollout of Heineken Green Zones has commenced in Lawley and Eldorado Park in Johannesburg, as well as Phillipi in Cape Town. By transforming vacant spaces into blooming community centres, Heineken aims to inspire sustainable behaviours and foster a sense of environmental care among residents.
The initiative is expected to cover over 30,000 square meters of land in its initial phase, marking a significant step towards creating greener and more sustainable urban environments. Additionally, Heineken plans to launch five Green Zones in this year and another five in 2025.
Empowering Communities
At the Green Zone Launch in Lawley, Marcel Swain, Marketing Manager: Premium Beer at HEINEKEN Beverages emphasized the importance of community engagement in the selection of Green Zone locations. He highlighted the brand’s commitment to identifying areas with strong community buy-in and potential for sustainable growth. By actively involving local residents in the decision-making process, Heineken aims to ensure that the Green Zones serve as catalysts for positive change and community empowerment.
“The launch of the Green Zone falls under our global initiative ‘Brew a Better World’. It speaks to our commitment to community upliftment and development. By transforming vacant spaces into thriving Green Zones, we are fostering sustainable behaviours and creating impactful change within communities”.
Heineken Green Zone , Sakhikhaya Youth Development Centre in Lawley
Sakhikhaya Youth Development Centre, a Beacon of Hope
One of the primary beneficiaries of the Heineken Green Zones initiative is the Sakhikhaya Youth Development Centre in Lawley. Centre Manager, Sihle Dasi shared how the initiative has personally impacted her and the community.
“Sakhikhaya has changed my life, it has aligned me with my purpose and higher self. It’s a place where individuals can express themselves freely, discover their potential, and embark on their healing journey”.
Sihle also adds that Sakhikhaya offers a range of programs focused on food security, sports development, and social support, including mental health services. By providing a safe and nurturing environment, Sakhikhaya empowers young people to overcome challenges and pursue their dreams.
Image: Supplied
Innovative Bottle Design by Heineken
In addition to the Heineken Green Zones, Heineken has unveiled a new innovative bottle design for its beer bottles in South Africa. The 650ml returnable “Star Bottle” features the brand’s iconic star deeply etched into the glass. This innovative design not only enhances the brand’s visual identity but also reinforces its efforts to reduce single-use glass consumption and promote a circular economy.
Driving Sustainable Change
Bhavna Mistry, Senior Brand Manager for Heineken, emphasized the significance of the new bottle design in reducing environmental impact.
“The new bottle design is a symbol of our commitment to sustainability. With nearly two-thirds of our beer portfolio transitioning to returnable bottles, we are making significant strides towards reducing single-use glass consumption and promoting a circular economy. This decision aligns with our goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2040, positioning Heineken as a leader in sustainable brewing practices”.
Additionally, Marcel highlighted, “Our decision to introduce returnable bottles in South Africa is also about creating a cultural shift. Through our ‘Fields Green with Grass not Glass’ campaign, we’re not only clearing glass but replacing it with fields of grass”.
Gap has once again set the stage for a captivating blend of music, fashion, and authenticity with its latest collaboration with Tyla for the Spring 2024 linen collection. This time, the spotlight shines on Grammy Award-winning artist Tyla, whose infectious energy and unique style infuse new life into the iconic brand.
GAP x Tyla Campaign Ad
Campaign’s Inspiration
The campaign, inspired by the global phenomenon of Jungle’s “Back On 74” music video, brings Tyla to the forefront, showcasing her talent not only as a musician but also as a fashion icon. Directed by Jungle’s J Lloyd and Charlie Di Placido, the campaign video pays homage to Gap’s heritage while embracing the diversity of voices and talents shaping its present and future.
In an interview with Complex, Tyla expressed her excitement for the collaboration and her appreciation for their iconic commercials.
“I’ve seen a lot of Gap commercials previously. So I love that I’m able to be a part of one, especially with Jungle”, she exclaimed. “The commercials have always been very iconic and fun, not cheesy. It’s something that I connected with even before the offer. So it kind of felt like it was meant for me to do.”
Grammy Award-winning artist Tyla
A Milestone in Tyla’s Career
Tyla’s involvement in the campaign marks a significant milestone in her career, as she becomes the latest in a long line of iconic artists to collaborate with Gap. In her own words, “It’s an absolute honour to be in a Gap campaign,” she says, expressing her excitement for fans to see her blend comfortable clothing with her own personal touches.
The collection itself, featuring linen and linen-blend pieces, embodies Gap’s commitment to comfort and versatility. From the Linen Cropped Boyfriend Shirt to the Linen Button-Up, each piece allows for free-flowing movement and effortless style, perfectly encapsulating Tyla’s spirit and energy.
But the campaign goes beyond just visuals. Tyla and Jungle will collaborate with Gap to curate an in-store playlist, creating a holistic experience for consumers that extends beyond the realm of fashion. This collaborative effort further solidifies Tyla’s position not only as a musical sensation but also as a cultural influencer.
Grammy Award-winning artist Tyla
Tyla’s journey from singing hit songs to starring in major fashion campaigns shows her versatility and ability to transcend boundaries. As she prepares to release her debut album and embark on an international tour, her partnership with Gap serves as a testament to her rising star power and influence.
Moreover, Tyla’s personal style, inspired by the Y2K fashion trend, adds a nostalgic yet contemporary flair to the campaign, with Gap continuing to push boundaries of creativity and innovation, proving once again that when music and fashion collide, magic happens.
Mastercard and MTN Group Fintech have joined forces to transform mobile payment services to new heights in Africa. This partnership marks a significant step towards enhancing financial inclusion and improving digital commerce on the continent.
Under this agreement, every MTN MoMo (Mobile Money) customer will receive a virtual and physical Mastercard companion card. The card will be seamlessly integrated into their MoMo wallet. This initiative will empower users with access to over 100 million acceptance locations worldwide, developing the way people transact and interact with digital payments.
Image: MTN
The Collaboration’s Shared Vision
The collaboration is supported by a shared vision of leveraging technology and innovative capabilities. This is to drive MTN towards its goal of becoming Africa’s leading fintech platform. With Mastercard’s expertise and MTN’s vast network reach, the partnership is to reshape the financial landscape. Also to drive unprecedented levels of financial inclusion and accessibility.
Amnah Ajmal, Executive Vice President of Market Development EEMEA at Mastercard, expressed pride in the collaboration. Also highlighting the transformative potential of mobile money solutions for SMEs.
“Our innovation strategy is based on collaboration. We are very proud of our partnership with MTN which will enable digital commerce for millions of people in Africa. Mobile money solutions can be greatly beneficial for SMEs, enabling growth through. This, includes seamless commercial operations, wider payment acceptance, access to affordable credit, and secure digital tools,” said Amnah.
On the other hand, Serigne Dioum, Group CEO of MTN Fintech, emphasized the shared commitment to empowering individuals and businesses. The empowerment will be through enhanced user experiences, secure transactions, and expanded acceptance.
“When there is a mutual vision, the road to partnership is a simple one. We look forward to working with Mastercard as a partner that is committed to enabling people and businesses through the collaboration into best-in-class apps, superior user experiences, safe transactions, secure remittances, new use cases, and expanded acceptance,” said Serigne Dioum.
Furthermore, the collaboration will empower SMEs with innovative payment acceptance solutions, such as Mastercard’s SME-in-a-Box. This low-cost payment solution will enable small business owners to transition their operations online. They will also be able to accept various digital payments, and tap into new avenues for growth and innovation.
In addition, the partnership will expand the reach of mobile money remittance services, facilitating both inward and cross-border transactions. This initiative is controlled to unlock significant economic opportunities and drive financial inclusion on a global scale.
Mastercard’s Mission
Mastercard remains committed to its mission. The mission is to bring 1 billion people and 50 million SMEs into the global digital economy by 2025. The collaboration with MTN represents a significant milestone in this journey. It also highlights the transformative power of strategic partnerships in driving positive change and promoting inclusive growth.
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