Joburg’s Festive Delights: 5 Places to Experience

Whether you’re on the lookout for an exhilarating activity to spice up your festive season or embarking on an exciting journey to Johannesburg for the very first time, this vibrant city has an array of captivating experiences awaiting you. We have thoughtfully curated a list of remarkable destinations where you can create cherished memories with your loved ones or simply have a blast with your friends. Johannesburg is a city that never fails to impress, and it promises to provide you with an unforgettable adventure filled with joy and excitement.

Gold Reef City Theme Park

Image: shutterstock

Gold Reef City Theme Park is a haven for those seeking a day of non-stop entertainment and fun. With an abundance of activities to choose from, visitors can immerse themselves in a world of excitement and adventure. From hair-raising roller coasters that will leave you breathless to engaging shows and interactive experiences, this theme park promises an action-packed day that will create lasting memories for you and your loved ones.

Johannesburg Art Gallery

If you have a deep appreciation for culture and the arts, then the Johannesburg Art Gallery is an absolute must-visit. With a rich history spanning over a century, this iconic museum stands as a testament to the city’s artistic heritage. Housing an impressive collection of over 10,000 artworks, it offers a diverse range of artistic expressions that will captivate any art enthusiast.

Altitude Beach

If you’re someone who enjoys the vibrant energy of the nightlife or prefers a relaxed outdoor atmosphere, then Altitude Beach is the perfect spot for you. Situated amidst the lively hustle and bustle of Johannesburg traffic, this hidden gem offers a serene escape right next to the recently revamped Fourways Mall. Altitude Beach is not just any ordinary venue; it is poised to become Joburg’s most sought-after waterfront dining and lifestyle destination.

Orlando Towers

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie seeking an unforgettable experience or simply looking to challenge yourself in a unique and exhilarating way, this site has something for everyone. From the affordable rock-climbing course and the adrenaline-fueled paintball session to the ultimate bungee jump, there’s no shortage of excitement to be found here. So, gather your courage, embrace the thrill, and get ready to embark on an adventure that will leave you breathless and craving for more.

Apartheid Museum

Prepare to be spellbound by the Apartheid Museum’s awe-inspiring architecture and thought-provoking exhibits, designed to captivate the hearts and minds of history enthusiasts. This historic institution stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit and unwavering determination of the South African people. As you step into this remarkable space, you will be transported back in time, immersing yourself in the struggles and triumphs that defined the apartheid era. The Apartheid Museum goes beyond being a mere collection of artefacts; it weaves together a powerful narrative that encourages visitors to reflect on the past and work towards a future that embraces inclusivity and unity.

The holiday season is a time to celebrate and reflect. Let’s prioritize creating beautiful memories while also ensuring our safety. This way, we can fully embrace the holiday spirit and welcome the new year with open arms, knowing we have taken care of ourselves and those we hold dear.

2023 Reflections: My Top 5 Business Lessons

As 2023 draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the year it was. Like any other year, it had its share of highs and lows. I choose to focus on the positive moments and learn from the negative ones.

Before I share my business lessons for 2023, I want to take a moment to highlight some of the memorable experiences I had this year. Since I started my entrepreneurial journey, it has always been a dream of mine to be recognized as one of the Mail & Guardian 200 Young South Africans. This year, that dream came true. It was made possible by the incredible work we did with the 2nd Annual Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards.

This event was preceded by the inaugural Festival of Youth-Owned Brands, which took place at the prestigious Sandton Convention centre in June. The event was a spectacular display of Youth Excellence held at the richest square mile in Africa. It was a spectacular showcase of youth excellence. More than 70 brands presented their products and services, and the platform itself created over 100 direct and indirect job opportunities. This project stands as the highlight of my career by far.

These are my top 5 business lessons for 2023:

1. Don’t take their word for it. 

The truth behind the adage “actions speak louder than words” becomes evident in this case. Whether its new recruits or sponsors. People make promises that often they don’t keep. When it comes to recruiting, it’s crucial to go the extra mile by contacting references and conducting thorough background checks. Many individuals tend to over sell their capabilities and never deliver. Imagine having a PR account manager that cannot write a press release? 

When it comes to sponsorship, if they haven’t signed a contract or sent an email confirming their participation, you don’t have the sponsorship. It doesn’t matter what they say in meetings or calls. 

2. Not all clients are good for your business 

I know it sounds counterintuitive to say not all clients are good clients. I’ve been in this business long enough to recognise that some clients can derail your business from growing. These are clients who ALWAYS scope creep, ask for discount, question your pricing and never seem to be satisfied with the results. Sadly, dealing with such clients rarely yields positive results.

3. Don’t bank on future earnings 

If the money hasn’t been deposited into your bank account, don’t rely on it. I’ve learned from my own errors of making critical financial choices based on money that was owed to me. This approach proved to be detrimental when clients failed to pay on time or as promised. To avoid unnecessary stress, it’s best to make decisions based on the cash you currently have available.

4. Business is not fair 

As a business owner you need to be comfortable with the fact that you will not always be treated fairly. We invested many hours and resources to develop a proposal that a potential client requested and never received feedback even after multiple attempts of solicitation. Some clients took our ideas from the proposals we shared with them and implemented the ideas with other agencies. We’ve had big corporates asking for discounts when our prices are already way lower than the major agencies. Our emerging business is placed on 60 days payment terms when they know that cash flow is the number one reason why many businesses fail. It’s unfair but that’s business. 

5. Rejection is your friend 

When you run a business, you need to be comfortable with rejection. This year, we sent out more than 500 proposals and less than 10% of them were successful. Despite our efforts to retain employees, we’ve witnessed some leaving for different reasons. The ability to stomach rejection is key to continue to pursue the grand vision. 

In conclusion, business setbacks are valuable lessons, not failures. Successful business owners can attest to this. It’s not about how you start, but how you navigate challenges and reach the finish line. I can confidently say that I have emerged triumphant in 2023 and am eagerly looking forward to starting the new year on a positive note. What was your biggest lesson in business this year?

Range Rover named luxury car of the year

The prestigious Steyn City Helistop in Northern Johannesburg played host to the highly anticipated TopGear South Africa Awards, held in collaboration with Wesbank, on the evening of 8th December. Amidst the glitz and glamour of the event, the Range Rover emerged as the undisputed winner of the luxury car of the year category, capturing the attention of all attendees. This remarkable achievement added a touch of prestige to the night, solidifying the Range Rover’s reputation as a symbol of opulence and excellence in the automotive industry.

The ceremony celebrated exceptional automobiles as well as the outstanding individuals and organizations responsible for their creation. A total of twenty-four accolades were presented during the event. It is worth noting that, with the exception of the Reader’s Choice Awards, the TopGear South Africa team was responsible for selecting the recipients of all the other awards. Among the twenty-four awards, eight of them were exclusively created by TopGear South Africa.

These unique categories encompassed a diverse range of aspects, including Noise of the Year; Instant Icon Award; Motoring Moment of the Year; PR of the Year; Driving Academy of the Year; All the Car You Need, Bargain of the Year and Fun Car of the Year.

The judging process for the TopGear South Africa Awards is meticulous, spanning the entire year. To be eligible for these prestigious awards, winners must excel in all aspects of performance, ownership, quality, design, and innovation, as measured by TopGear South Africa’s evaluation system. Avon Middleton, Publishing Partner at TopGear South Africa, explains that the awards are all about context and experience, and that they must have driven the cars in order to evaluate them.

Other exceptional vehicles were acknowledged for their excellence, such as Ford South Africa being recognized as the Manufacturer of the Year, and the BMW X1 being honored as the Urban Crossover of the Year.

The awards not only highlighted the achievements of exceptional vehicles but also recognized the contributions of individuals and organizations within the industry. Christo Kruger was honored with the PR of the Year award, John Mulder was named Fleet Manager of the Year, and Leyton Fourie received the prestigious Motoring Personality of the Year award. The AMG Driving Academy was acknowledged as the top Driving Academy of the Year, and Athol Van Heerden was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his remarkable contributions to Volkswagen South Africa.

Here is a list of the TopGear Award Categories and Winners


Hot-Hatch of the Year – Honda Civic Type R
Family SUV of the Year – Kia Sportage
Hatch of the Year – Volkswagen Polo
Reader’s Choice Award – Beijing X55
Supercar of the Year – Porsche 911 GT3 RS
Luxury Car of the Year – Range Rover
Performance Car of the Year – Honda Civic Type R
Manufacturer of the Year – Ford South Africa
Urban Crossover of the Year – BMW X1
Bakkie of the Year – Ford Ranger Raptor
MPV of the Year – Kia Carnival
Efficiency Award – Renault Duster dCi

Bargain of the Year – GWM Ora
EV of the Year – BMW iX3
Fun Car of the Year -Toyota GR86
Instant Icon Award – Porsche 911 Dakar
Motoring Moment of the Year -Ford South Africa – 100 Years
Noise of the Year – Alfa Romeo Stelvio Q
All the Car You Need – Audi RS6 Avant
PR of the Year – Christo Kruger – Porsche, Lamborghini and Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit
Fleet Manager of the Year – John Mulder
Motoring Personality of the Year – Leyton Fourie
Driving Academy of the Year – AMG Driving Academy
Lifetime Achievement Award – Athol Van Heerden – Volkswagen South Africa

Netflix’s Biannual Report Exposes the Most Watched Shows

Breaking all barriers, Netflix has pulled back the curtain to unveil an extraordinary report that has left the world in awe. With bated breath, viewers have eagerly awaited the revelation of the most-watched shows, and the wait is finally over. The Night Agent, a gripping action series, has emerged victorious, securing the top position in this ground-breaking report. This revelation has not only captivated the hearts of millions of viewers but has also sparked a global conversation about the power and influence of streaming platforms in shaping our entertainment landscape.

In 2023, the platform premiered its first season of a highly anticipated show, accumulating an astounding 812.1 million hours of viewership, solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon. Following the success of the first season, the platform released season two of Ginny & Georgia, further cementing its popularity. It also introduced “The Glory,” a captivating South Korean series that showcased unique storytelling and cultural nuances. These two series kept viewers engrossed in the platform’s diverse content.

Netflix’s “What We Watched: A Netflix Engagement Report” will be released twice a year, providing viewers with a comprehensive list of the most popular content on the platform. The report will reveal total hours watched for each title, highlighting those with over 50,000 hours of viewership. It will also give exclusive insights into release dates of upcoming shows and movies, and indicate if a title is available globally. Stay tuned for the ultimate binge-watching update.

Netflix acknowledges that success on their platform cannot be solely measured by the number of hours watched. They comprehend that success can manifest in various forms, as long as a movie or TV show is able to engage and excite its audience. Netflix has demonstrated that both shorter and longer content can achieve significant success, indicating that the duration of a title does not exclusively determine its popularity or impact.

To gauge success, Netflix considers the audience size in relation to the economics of the title. It’s not just about the number of viewers, but also how the audience engages with the content and the financial viability of the title. To compare different titles accurately, Netflix recommends referring to their weekly Top 10 and Most Popular lists, which take into account not only the run times but also the premiere dates of shows or movies. By considering these factors, Netflix provides a comprehensive and fair assessment of the popularity and success of their content.

CEO Ted Sarandos stressed the importance of transparency for Netflix as the streaming industry becomes more crowded. In the past, Netflix did not publicly disclose their numbers due to competition from traditional TV networks. However, with new players in the market, Sarandos acknowledged the need for more information. By sharing data on viewership and subscribers, Netflix aims to maintain trust and credibility. This transparency helps them stay ahead and make informed decisions about content. Sarandos also emphasized the need to adapt and stay ahead in the evolving industry. By being transparent, Netflix can better understand consumer preferences and provide a personalized streaming experience.

See full report here

Top 4 game-changing marketing campaigns of 2023

As the year draws to a close, it’s a perfect opportunity to look back at the extraordinary marketing campaigns that have mesmerized audiences in 2023. We take a moment to give a pat to the exceptional campaigns that have made a lasting impact on consumers in South Africa and across the globe.

Barbie

Barbie’s marketing strategy, which prominently emphasized the color pink, helped it become one of the most anticipated films of all time in 2023. With only Barbie’s distinctive pink color and the release date visible on one poster, the campaign was hailed as “marketing genius” by many. Additionally, hundreds of brands took part, introducing Barbie fever to untapped markets.

With global sales surpassing $1.4 billion, the film is the best grossing film of the year thus far and smashed box office records for the biggest opening weekend of 2023. It is believed to have brought in £293 million worldwide. The Barbie movie marketing campaign definitely gets a pat.

Pedros

Another marketing campaign getting a pat from us is Pedro’s “Chicken Wars” commercial. Pedro’s, a recently founded chicken fast-food restaurant, has created an advertisement that has caught the eye of some consumers, depicting the new establishment as a preferred dining alternative when compared to existing market options. This advertising content, which was released a few weeks ago, used a comical approach to challenge competitors such as Nando’s and KFC, two of the country’s most notable participants in the chicken-centric fast-food industry.


The amusing commercial depicts a conference between two large chicken-focused eateries in the country as they band together to strategize against the newcomer, Pedro’s. The advertisement begins with a scene of a reception area at the headquarters of a chicken fast-food restaurant, where the reception desk prominently displays the logo associated with Nando’s, jokingly labeled “Nando’s.” referred to as “Over Priced Chicken Head Office.” While the ad does not overtly mention KFC, it skillfully integrates a font-based allusion to “Greasy Fried Chicken (GFC),” which clearly references KFC.

Bonang Matheba x Steve Madden

In a groundbreaking move, Steve Madden recently launched a captivating marketing campaign in partnership with Bonang Matheba, a highly acclaimed South African reality TV star. As the first-ever African personality to collaborate with the renowned designer shoe brand, Bonang Matheba’s influence and fashion-forward persona were meant to elevate the brand’s new range, the Holiday Select Collection, to new heights.

This decision highlighted the brand’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity, as they recognize the immense talent and influence that individuals from different backgrounds can bring to the table.

The holiday range includes six footwear styles and two handbag styles. The collaboration between Steve Madden and Bonang Matheba was undoubtedly one of the most successful marketing campaigns we witnessed in 2023.

Fatti’s and Moni’s

Fatti’s & Moni’s introduced an exciting campaign aimed at honouring pasta enthusiasts in South Africa. This celebratory initiative involved a range of carefully planned activities and interactions with AmaTaliano’s, who have always embraced Italian cuisine. By organizing these curated engagements, Fatti’s & Moni’s aimed to celebrate the deep-rooted love for pasta among South Africans and highlight the connection between the local community and authentic Italian flavours.

Fatti’s & Moni’s revolutionized the South African culinary scene by introducing pasta to the country, becoming the pioneer brand in this regard. For years, they have been instrumental in empowering Mzansi to explore their creativity in the kitchen and create remarkable pasta dishes.
The success of the campaign saw the Fatti’s & Moni’s marketing team being awarded a Silver Loerie at the 45th Loeries Awards Ceremony for its “Always Eatalian” campaign in the film category for TV and cinema ads under 90 seconds.

The success of these campaigns can be attributed to the meticulous planning, strategic targeting, and seamless execution, which have resulted in a lasting impact that will continue to resonate with consumers for years to come.

Luxury brand Amiri heads to our shores

International luxury fashion brand Amiri has opened its first South African store in the heart of Sandton City Mall’s Diamond Walk. Known for its authenticity and spearheading the luxury fashion market, Amiri guarantees a mesmerizing shopping environment.

Image: Supplied

Having forged a distinctive company culture, Amiri has been devoted to creating high-end quality since the beginning. They have always been dedicated to producing a fusion of contemporary and classic design elements.

Mike Amiri, the company’s founder and creative director, was excited about reaching this milestone. He said they always had a dream of bringing Amiri to South Africa and that this dynamic nation’s spirit and fashion greatly align with their brand’s values. We are excited to present the AMIRI experience, which offers a unique and exquisite shopping experience for the discerning customer, to Johannesburg, the fashion capital of the nation.

Black Coffee and Arie Fabian (image supplied)

Men’s and women’s jean shapes ranging from extra wide to kick-flare show Amiri’s creative approach to denim wear. Denim styles are produced in small quantities on purpose to guarantee that every item is of the finest calibre. Amiri’s top standard is upheld by partnerships with talented artisans in Italy and the L.A. Arts District, where exquisite leather products and tailoring are made.

Themba Nkosi, a DJ entrepreneur, Grammy-winning performer Nkosinathi Maphumulo, “Black Coffee,” and retail pioneer Arie Fabian, who are all founders of a popular pop-up store, have an exclusive formal partnership with Amiri.

Image: Supplied

Fabian said in a statement that they are very proud about the grand opening of global luxury brand Amiri’s first store in the Diamond Walk. He said that this is a daring convergence of style and invention, a synthesis of cultures, and a distinct fashion narrative that embodies the essence of the African terrain and redefines worldwide trends.

Nkosinathi ‘Black Coffee’, Maphumulo, added that in music, beats harmonize; in fashion, style resonates; and he concluded that collaborating with Amiri brings rhythm to couture, merging the pulse of sound with the allure of design, creating a symphony of style and substance.

4 reasons why you should attend the Pat On Brands Heritage Dialogue

Pat on Brands in partnership with African Bank brings you another installment of the annual Heritage Dialogue. This dialogue seeks to impart knowledge, bridge the gap between aspiring marketers and expert marketers, connect businesses with people, and share information.

This years theme is ‘The Role of Heritage Brands in Shaping the Future of South Africa’.

If you have not yet purchased a ticket for this upcoming dialogue, what are you waiting for? Move with speed and visit www.patonbrands.co.za to purchase a ticket at only R150. Here are four good reasons why you need to attend the dialogue:

  1. It’s a chance to learn from the best: Discover proven strategies and innovative approaches that have propelled South Africa’s leading brands to the forefront of their industries.
  2. To gain some inspiration: Gain fresh perspectives and inspiration to fuel your marketing endeavors. Stay ahead of the curve with the latest trends and innovations.
  3. Gain real-world insights: Dive deep into real-world case studies and success stories. Learn how these marketing titans navigate challenges and achieve remarkable results.
  4. To network and connect: Forge valuable connections with fellow professionals and industry leaders. Share experiences, ideas, and aspirations in a collaborative environment.

The dialogue will be hosted by Pat Mahlangu, CEO and Founder of Pat on Brands. We have two exceptional speakers, Sbusiso Kumalo, a Chief Marketing Officer at African Bank, and Guilia lorio-Ndlovu, a Chief Marketing Officer at Pepsico SA Snacks.

Visit the www.patonbrand.com now to book your seat.

Women Ensured Safe Journeys Through ChaufHER: A Ride-Hailing for Women by Women

In recent years, technology has revolutionized the way we travel and access services. One innovative platform that has gained attention is ChaufHER, a remarkable app that’s redefining ride-hailing and courier services by prioritizing the safety and empowerment for women. With its unique approach of connecting female drivers with female passengers, ChaufHER is not just a transportation solution, but a platform that champions security and independence for women.

Addressing Safety Concerns 

Safety is a critical concern for anyone using transportation services, especially for women in South Africa. Danielle Wright, the founder of ChaufHER found that she didn’t feel safe with the transportation available to transport her children and carer, and soon found out that her friends felt the same way. This is how ChaufHER came about. ChaufHER recognizes this concern and has taken proactive measures to create a safe environment for both passengers and drivers. By exclusively connecting female drivers with female passengers, the app provides a level of comfort that is often missing in traditional ride-hail services. This aspect of the platform directly addresses the concerns and vulnerabilities many women face while traveling alone, particularly during late hours and unfamiliar areas. 

“Women and children represent the most vulnerable members of society,” says founder, Danielle Wright, “but they also represent our greatest untapped resource. ChaufHER is a way for us to provide opportunities and freedom of movement to these groups, to help them live their best lives.”   

Promoting Empowerment and Inclusivity 

Beyond just facilitating rides, ChaufHER is contributing to the empowerment of women. The app creates opportunities for women to become drivers and earn a self-employed income in a flexible and supportive environment. For women who might have reservations about working in male-dominated fields, ChaufHER provides an avenue to break barriers and step into the driving industry with confidence. 

ChaufHER also highlights inclusivity by welcoming transgender and non-binary individuals who identify officially as female. This commitment to fostering an inclusive community ensures that the platform remains true to its mission of providing a safe and empowering space for all women, regardless of their background or identity. 

Promoting Social Responsibility 

ChaufHER also extends its impact beyond the app itself. The company engages in initiatives that promote women’s safety and empowerment. This includes collaborating with organizations focused on women’s rights, offering self-defense workshops, and raising awareness about the importance of safe transportation options for women.  

Looking Ahead 

As ChaufHER continues to grow, it has the potential to set new standards for the ride-hail and courier service industry. In an era where convenience and safety are of importance, ChaufHER offers a solution that meets these needs while creating a positive impact on society. ChaufHER is available in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Pretoria and plans to expand to Durban, Gqeberha, and then nationally. The app expands its reach and influence, it has the potential to shape urban mobility and inspire other industries to prioritize safety and empowerment, ultimately making our communities safer and more inclusive for everyone. 

What does the Future Look Like? 

Michele Wassung, ChaufHER’s Media Marketing Relations Officer mentions that ChaufHER aims to push to get more Riders riding and believes that there is a continuous ChaufHER Driver and Rider App development. Taking into consideration that ChaufHER is a startup, they also face the same problems startups do, such as attracting capital for growth. To gain more exposure, additional investment would be beneficial for the brand to help drive their advertising campaign forward. ChaufHER would eventually like to grow their Parcel Delivery Service by bringing on board corporate accounts.  

5 Features on latest social media platform, Threads

Launched last week, Threads has smashed the record for the fastest-growing consumer app, beating the ChapGPT record with over 100 million new users in 5 days.

The new social media platform which is set to be Twitter’s rival from Meta has had a lot of people wanting to jump on the platform due to a few changes Twitter has implemented since Elon Musk took over. you can access Threads from its desktop site at Threads.net or by downloading the app for iOS and Android.

Here’s what you need to know about Threads

1. Like, share, and quote

This option is similar to Twitter. You can like the Thread someone has made, quote and reply to it. The quote and reply option will show on your profile. You can’t see what someone else liked on their profile. The sharing option is interesting because it allows you to share someone’s Thread on Twitter, which is a bit ironic. You are also able to share your Thread on your Instagram feed and story.

2. Threading

To create a thread on Twitter, there is a plus sign to add another tweet under your initial tweet and the following tweets will be considered a thread. However, on Thread you have to click the Return button 3 times to create a Thread (multiple threads under the initial thread).

3. Search Button

What’s trending? This option is different on Threads from Twitter, on Threads, it is used to search for accounts to follow. While on Twitter you can find out what a lot of people are tweeting about in your area or country. To find out what people are threading about, you have to scroll the timeline, which makes the platform a little bit more interactive. It is unclear if the Trending option will be available on Threads any time soon.

4. Import Information

When you join the platform you use your Instagram handle, Threads gives you the option to import all your Instagram information. This means that you can follow the people you follow on Instagram and use the same bio. This makes it easier to find your Instagram community and when they join the platform they can request to follow you.

5. Character limit

On Threads, you can create text-based posts with up to 500 characters as well as share photos and videos up to five minutes long. Twitter Blue subscribers can increase their character limit to 25,000. Users who aren’t subscribed to Twitter Blue have a character limit of 280.

Threads is still a work in progress and there are more changes to be expected as the platform grows. Download the app to be in the know.

Lerato Agency turns 3 and pledges to give a hand-up to 3 start-ups

Lerato Agency, a PR & Digital agency, celebrates its third-year anniversary. Established during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic (when many businesses were contemplating their futures), Lerato Agency has not only survived the pandemic but has also become a trusted partner for crafting brands that people love. 

Founded in 2020, Lerato Agency emerged amidst a global pandemic that disrupted industries worldwide. Despite the uncertainty and economic downturn, the agency’s visionary founder, Pat Mahlangu, seized the opportunity to create a dynamic and resilient agency.  

The five love languages (services) at Lerato Agency are Public Relations, Digital Marketing, Design and Branding, Content Creation and Experiential Marketing. In celebrating the momentous milestone, Lerato Agency is showing love to three youth-owned businesses. Lerato Agency wants to turn three start-ups into brands that will stand the test of time. The agency will render its services to the tune of R300 000 (R100 000 per startup).  

The criterion for this initiative is as follows:  

  • The startup should be running for more than 6 months and less than a year. 
  • The startup must be youth-owned (between the ages of 18-35). 
  • The startup must be South African and registered with the CIPC. 

Startups that meet this criterion can apply by sending their business profiles to hello@lerato.agency and the team will be in contact. Since inception, the agency has worked with over 30 reputable brands of the JSE as well as the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards and the Festival of Youth-Owned Brands.

Pat Mahlangu: Founder of Lerato Agency

“We are thrilled to celebrate the third-year anniversary of Lerato Agency, a milestone that marks our continued growth and success in the industry. As we reflect on our journey, we recognize the invaluable support we have received from our clients and partners. This initiative aligns with our core values of fostering entrepreneurship and sustainable growth. We are dedicated to growing and nurturing these startups into brands by investing our resources and mentorship,” says Pat Mahlangu, the founder and CEO of Lerato Agency.  

Lerato Agency attributes its success to a client-centric approach, focusing on understanding each client’s unique needs, goals, and target audience. By providing tailored strategies and leveraging the latest marketing techniques, the agency has consistently delivered measurable outcomes and helped businesses thrive in the digital age. 

Meet the winners of the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards

On the night of the 15th of June 2023, we saw the second annual Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards, brought to you by Standard Bank . Held at the Sandton Convention Centre, the awards celebrated the outstanding achievements of young entrepreneurs who have demonstrated exceptional creativity, resilience, and innovation in building their own brands.  

Pamela Mtanga: Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards 2023 host

Voted for from a pool of 64 nominees making a significant impact in their respective industries, the winners of the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards have showcased unwavering commitment, while driving positive change through their products and services. 

And the winners are… 

  • Accessories – Bona By Wenzy M 
  • Agriculture, sponsored by the IDC – Evergreen Ageing 
  • Apparel – GALXBOY 
  • Beverages, sponsored by CCBSA – Grandeur Premium Gin 
  • Hair & Beauty – Swiitch Beauty 
  • Homeware – Mo’s Crib 
  • Media – Public Health Entertainment 
  • NPO & Charities – ZA Powerhouse 
  • Travel & Tourism – Mogopodi Adventures 
  • Technology, sponsored by Telkom – Reslocate 
  • Services, sponsored by Brand South Africa – Legends Barber 
  • Health & Wellness – Numa Medical Aesthetics 
  • Education, sponsored by Wits Business School – Libertalia Group 
  • Food – The Lazy Makoti 
  • Footwear – Bathu 
  • Personalities & Influencers, sponsored by Lunch Bar – Snikiwe Mhlongo

Additionally, Legends Barber was recognized as the Overall Top Brand, representing the epitome of excellence in the youth-owned brand landscape. 

Pat Mahlangu: Founder & CEO (Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards)

“We are thrilled to acknowledge the remarkable achievements of these outstanding youth-owned brands,” said Pat Mahlangu, CEO and founder of the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards. “Their accomplishments serve as a testament to their entrepreneurial spirit and ability to create innovative solutions that make a positive difference. We congratulate each and every winner and wish them continued success in their endeavors.” 

“These awards are a testament to the dedication and hard work we’ve put into building Legends Barber. It’s an honour to be recognized as the overall top brand, and to be among such exceptional young entrepreneurs. We believe in our mission to provide the best grooming experience while positively impacting our community. This award motivates us to continue pushing boundaries and creating a legacy,” said Sheldon Tatchell, founder of Legends Barber. 

Sheldon Tatchell: Founder (Legends Barber)

These extraordinary young entrepreneurs have not only demonstrated exceptional business acumen but have also made a lasting impact on their communities and society at large. Their passion, drive, and dedication serve as an inspiration to aspiring young entrepreneurs. 

The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards extends heartfelt congratulations to all the winners, recognizing their hard work, dedication, and ingenuity. “We eagerly anticipate their future accomplishments and the continued positive impact they will make,” concludes Pat. 

The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards announce 2023 auditors

The much-anticipated 2nd annual Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards (YOBAs) brought to you by Standard Bank are scheduled to take place on the 15th of June 2023 at the Sandton Convention Centre. To maintain the credibility of the awards, the Top 16 YOBAs have again partnered with South Africa’s leading emerging, proudly black-owned and managed professional services consulting firm – Khumalo & Mabuya Chartered Accountants (KnM).  

The Top 16 YOBAs are a platform that celebrates and recognises youth excellence in 16 categories of the economy. The awards embrace the fact that the youth are active players in the South African economy and that their contribution must be recognised.

KnM advocates for positioning Africa in the forefront and the world after. This is due to the contributions Africa has made to the world over many years in labour, minerals, humanity and so much more. The mission for KnM is to lead in all regions of Africa and alternative markets in advancing transparent governance in audit, advisory and SMEs.

Pat Mahlangu; Founder & CEO (Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards)

“Both Top 16 YOBA and KnM share common values which drive and catalyse youth entrepreneurship and excellence. It is great to have KnM as our auditors again this year as we continue to maintain the credibility and standard of our Awards,” said Pat Mahlangu, CEO & Founder of the TOP 16 YOBAs. 

Peterson Khumalo, The Group MD of Khumalo and Mabuya says, “UNICEF acknowledges that young people not only represent the future of any nation but are the main agents of change and progress in a progressive society. At KnM we have internalised that viewpoint to the extent that we have pledged our little contribution in support of YOBA. Our slogan “Confident about the future”, demonstrates our firm belief that YOBA is an important stimulus that seeks to encourage a culture of youth entrepreneurship by recognising and celebrating young entrepreneurs.” 

Peterson Khumalo: Group MD (Khumalo & Mabuya Chattered Accountants)

The Top 16 YOBAs will be preceded by the Festival of Youth-Owned Brands which will also be hosted at the Sandton Convention Centre on 14 and 15 June 2023.

Tickets are available on www.top16yoba.co.za

The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards Announce 2023 Jury

The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards (the YOBAs) brought to you by Standard Bank have announced the 2023 jury.  

Professionals, marketers and academics around South Africa applied to be a part of the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards judging panel. This year, the application for the judging panel was open to the public. The public could nominate either themselves or individuals who met a very strict criterion. The jury criteria included that the nominee should at least be an expert or an academic in the particular field they will be judging.  

Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards 2022

The YOBAs celebrates and recognises youth-owned brands in South Africa. It has enlisted 29 leaders in the marketing, communications, academia and entrepreneurship industry to assess and shortlist over 2 500 nominations. 

Due to the success of the award ceremony last year, the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands have received a large number of nominations this year, which sparked the idea of getting more judges. The judges that have been selected are masters in their field and specialise in the categories that they will be judging.  

Pat Mahlangu: Founder and CEO (Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards)

“We are thankful for the industry giants for taking time off their hectic schedules to join our judging panel. It is encouraging to have people of their calibre support youth initiatives,” said Pat Mahlangu, the founder and CEO of the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards. 

For the second year, the chairperson of the jury is the Integrated Media & Digital Director of Tiger Brands Sadika Fakir and the voice of marketing, Lebo Lion as the deputy chairperson.  

Sadika Fakir: Integrated Media & Digital Director (Tiger Brands)

The chairperson of the jury, Sadika Fakir says, “we are so honored to have such an exceptionally high calibre of judges for our Top16YOBA 2023 panel. Our judge panel brings excellence, skill and wisdom.” 

Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards 2023 Jury

The judges that will be a part of this year’s two-day festival are the following:  

1. Sadika Fakir (Integrated Media & Digital Director Tiger Brands) 

2. Lebo Lion (Voice of Marketing, Beople SA) 

3. Dr Beate Stiehler-Mulder (Marketing Coordinator UJ) 

4. David Tshabalala (Award Winning Graphic Designer, Illustrator & Content Creator Slaying Goliath) 

5. Thembi Sehloho (Marketing Director Tiger Brands SA) 

6. Mosa Ntwampe (Marketing & Corporate Communications Sakhumnotho) 

7. Dr Marcia Lebambo (Senior Lecturer Tshwane University of Technology) 

8. Bulelani Balabala (Creative Director IAF Brands) 

9. Katlego Dithlokwe (Founder & Brand Strategy Consultant the Hyphen) 

10. Lindy-Lou Alexander (Global Marketing Head for Personal and Private Banking Division 
Standard Bank) 

11. Masingita Mazibuko (Executive Brand & Marketing Telkom) 

12. Palesa Mabuse (Senior Managing Partner Nalesa Media) 

13. Yasira Cajee (Marketing Officer Wits Business School) 

14. Cameron Belling (Head of Marketing Bluff Meat Supply) 

15. Boitumelo Mohube (Marketing Executive and Communication specialist Founder of Mohube Media) 

16. Thabani Khumalo (Brand Manager – Premium & Value Brands (Beverages) Tiger Brands) 

17. Tammy Darroch (Marketing Director Kellogg South Africa) 

18. Ponatshego Makhuza (Shopper Marketing Lead Unilever) 

19. Bogosi Motshegwa (Chief Creative & Strategy Officer Brandreserve Co. Thinkeneur) 

20. Kovini Moodley (Founder Boss Babes) 

21. Shiko Mamotheti (Digital Strategist and Director Nerdware) 

22. Deshnie Govender (Marketing & Culture Leader in Tech) 

23. Albert Makoeng (Divisional Sales Director Nfinity Influencer) 

24. Khanyi Tshume (Head of Strategy TLC Worldwide Middle East & Africa) 

25. Wendy Silinyana (Founder and Director Virtue Business Solutions) 

26. Lerato Selialia (Senior Experience Strategist Immersion Group logo) 

27. Lebohang Matsoso (Lead: Brand Marketing Communications Mercedes-Benz South Africa) 

28. Fatima Ouanssaidi (CEO and a co-founder On-Point PR) 

29. Vuyokazi Mhlope (Marketing Manager Showmax) 

The awards will be preceded by the Festival of Youth-Owned Brands on the 14th & 15th of June 2023 at Sandton Convention Centre. The awards show will follow on the evening of the 15th where the expressive visionaries will be celebrated and recognised also at the Sandton Convention Centre. 

Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards Early Bird Tickets Now On Sale

Tickets to the gold standard of youth excellence are officially available!  The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards brought to you by Standard Bank will be preceded by a two-day festival. Dubbed as the Festival of Youth-Owned Brands, the two-day festival will give youth-owned brands a platform to showcase and sell their products and/or services. The festival aims to acknowledge the contributions these youth-owned brands are making to our economy. 

Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards 2022

Imagine, a shopping mall of South African youth-owned brands, only? For the first time in the African continent, the largest number of youth-owned brands will be housed under one roof for over a two-day period, at the richest square mile in Africa. The festival will take place on the 14th and 15th of June 2023, bringing together trailblazers from across South Africa. On these two days, masterclasses from industry experts, entrepreneurs and the biggest names in entertainment will be in attendance. The official award ceremony will take place on the evening of the 15th of June 2023 with surprise appearances from celebrities. 

Pat Mahlangu: Founder (Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards)

According to Pat Mahlangu, the founder and CEO of the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards, “If you are passionate about youth excellence and want to support them, then the Festival of Youth-Owned Youth-Owned Bradnds is the place to be. The festival will be filled with celebrating and recognising the best youth-owned brands in South Africa”. 

The ticket sales will be divided into three phases. The pricing for the first phase is as follows: 

Grab your tickets now on Webticket!  Be there or be told.

The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards Partner with Interactive Out of Home Media Company

The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards have announced a media partnership with out-of-home media company, Nalesa Media. Nalesa has been able to adapt to the growing industry trends and deliver a new perspective to their clients by putting their brands in the forefront of the consumer. Just like the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards, Nalesa Media prides itself in nurturing the spirit of entrepreneurship.

Nalesa Media has developed, and evolved, branching into events, multi-media, interactive media, app development and so much more. The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards nominees will be marketed and advertised through Nalesa’s Out-of-Home Inventory to entice people to get involved and vote for their favourite Youth-Owned Brands. In addition to that, the winners of the awards will also get airtime on selected inventory.

There are many youth-owned brands in South Africa that are doing great but aren’t recognised. Through the partnership between Nalesa Media and the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards, these brands will get the recognition they deserve.

Pat Mahlangu: Founder and CEO (Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards)

According to the founder and CEO of the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards, Pat Mahlangu, the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards welcome and honour the partnership with Nalesa Media. “Brand awareness is one of the building blocks of growing a brand. What Nalesa Media is bringing to the table is an invaluable opportunity for these youth-owned brands to increase their brand awareness and ultimately to grow.” says Pat Mahlangu.

Palesa Mabuse: Executive Managing Director (Nalesa Media)

“It gives us great privilege to be in a position to assist in empowering young entrepreneurs and brands, who pour their hearts and souls into making their passions a reality.” says Palesa Mabuse, Executive Managing Director of Nalesa Media.

As a team of young, black and female professionals, Nalesa Media supports youth-owned brands, encourages creativity and innovation and hopes to create world class, 100% African female business.

Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards Education Category Sponsor Announced

The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards partner with the Wits Business School. Wits Business School is the Graduate School of Business Administration of the University of the Witwatersrand, one of the top tertiary institutes in Africa. The school offers a variety of postgraduate academic programmes and executive education programmes as well as weekly public seminars.

The Wits Business School believes in celebrating and supporting youth entrepreneurship in South Africa and on the African continent. The Executive Education unit at Wits Business School will be sponsoring the education category through short courses valued at R220,000.00

Yasira Cajee: Marketing Officer of Executive Education (Wits Business School)

“At the heart of our mission is a commitment to support the development of agile and ethical leaders who positively impact our country and continent. This partnership provides the business school with an opportunity to enhance the skills and capabilities of young entrepreneurs and will expose them to the best in knowledge, tools, and practical application as they prepare to lead their ventures into the future,” says Yasira Cajee, the Marketing Officer of Executive Education at Wits Business School. 

Here is what is included in the short course:

1. A five (5) day online Managing & Leading People short course for the sixteen (16) category winners.  

2. A nine (9 month) face-to-face Management Advancement Programme (MAP) for the overall winner. 

The school aims to develop leaders who can shape the future of Africa and raise the values bar on how business is done on the African continent. The young entrepreneurs are provided with a deep understanding of the complexities of doing business in Africa within a global context.  

Pat Mahlangu: Founder &CEO (Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards)

“We believe that entrepreneurs need to constantly hone their skills and work on ways to better their brands. Wits Business School has created an opportunity for these young entrepreneurs to do exactly that. They have shown constant support for young entrepreneurs and will be providing them with the tools needed to sustain a brand in the long run,” says Pat Mahlangu, the founder and CEO of the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards.

The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Announce 2023 Headline Sponsor

The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards have announced that the awards will be powered up by Standard Bank. This new headline sponsor partnership is a significant step for the awards, as they shine a light on youth excellence.

Taking pride in supporting youth-owned brands in South Africa, Standard Bank aims to deliver sustainable growth throughout the continent. The youth play a huge role in economic growth and putting Africa on the map. The partnership aims to shine a light on the strides the youth is making in South Africa.

Standard Bank’s commitment to growing Africa is summed up through the brand promise ‘It Can Be’. The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards believe that it certainly can be through empowering and supporting the youth of South Africa and growing their individual brands.

Pat Mahlangu: CEO & Founder (Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards)

“The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards are an essential platform in today’s South Africa as they celebrate entrepreneurship, particularly given limited employment opportunities faced in the marketplace. These awards are for the ones who worked tirelessly at their craft and stopped at nothing to grow their brands to what it is today. We are delighted to have Standard Bank as the headline partner for this year’s awards contributing to the gold standard of youth excellence” says Pat Mahlangu, the founder and CEO of the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards.

As the largest financial services organisation in Africa, Standard Bank’s purpose is to drive sustainable and inclusive growth on the continent and is committed to the development of young people.

Lindy-Lou Alexander: Global Head for Personal and Private Banking (Standard Bank)

“We are honoured to support the entrepreneurial energy and drive that are inherently present in the next generation of business leaders as the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards’ headline sponsor. We’re thrilled to be taking part in yet another significant relationship as part of the 10% movement since it enables us to invest in their potential and assist them in laying the foundation for a more promising and creative future.”, said Global Head for Personal and Private Banking at Standard Bank, Lindy-Lou Alexander

The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards will be taking place on the 14th & 15th of June 2023. The awards show will be preceded by a two-day festival whereby the largest number of youth-owned brands will be showcasing therein the history of the country.

Top 16 Youth-Owned Brand Award winner, Delivery Ka Speed, creating jobs

Godiragetse (Godi) Mogajane, a young CEO and entrepreneur from Hammanskraal is alleviating unemployment and creating jobs in townships. At just 25, Godi has been able to launch Delivery Ka Speed in over 10 townships in a space of two years and plans to take it nationwide. Delivery Ka Speed simply means “Speedy Delivery” in Sepitori. Sepitori is the urban lingua franca of Pretoria and the Tshwane metropolitan area in South Africa. It is a combination of Tswana and influences from Tsotsitaal, Afrikaans and other Bantu languages of the region. 

Godiragetse (Godi) Mogajane

Delivery Ka Speed is a food delivery service for Ekasi. They believe in bringing accessibility to townships and elevating the Kasi lifestyle. Being from the township himself, Godi identified two problems that communities were faced with. Firstly, he recognised the unpleasant customer journey that people go through to get fast food in the townships. Secondly, he acknowledged the increasing rate of youth unemployment in the townships.  

Delivery Ka Speed team members

In order to solve these problems, Delivery Ka Speed was formed to not only alleviate unemployment amongst the youth but also create a pleasant customer experience. This platform has given many young people a chance to provide for their families and contribute to economic growth. Delivery Ka Speed works with locals and only hires South African youth. They have over 40 drivers in all locations they operate in. The locations that Delivery Ka Speed operates in are namely; Hammanskraal, Soshanguve, Mobopane, Katlehong, Sky City, Vosloorus, Tsakane, Mamelodi, Hebron and recently Bela-Bela in Limpopo. Delivery Ka Speed will be launching in Mankweng on the 24th of March 2023. They have also had the honor to win the Top Services Brand Award at the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards.  

Godiragetse accepting an award at the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards 2022

According to Godi, innovation is a critical vehicle for inspiring change, and as a result of this, he has been driven to adding value and creating transformational change by using his uncanny instincts, hence the development of Delivery Ka Speed.  

Delivery Ka Speed is still growing and is expected to dominate townships all across South Africa.  

Here’s what’s new at the 2nd Annual Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards 2023

The 2nd Annual Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards were recently launched at the classy Solo Restaurant in Sandton. The launch was attended by members of the media, marketers and key stakeholders. Hosted by the 2022 Top 16 Youth-Owned Brand Awards winner, Pamela Mtanga, the launch served as not only an entertainment session but also an information session with the relevant stakeholders.  

Pamela Mtanga and Elma Akob: Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards winners 2022

The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards are an award ceremony that celebrates young, gifted and determined brand owners. From the announcement of a new category to a two-day Festival of Youth-Owned Brands – The Gold Standard of Youth Excellence is set to be bigger than ever. The name ‘Top 16’ originates from June 16, which is Youth Day and the day that the 1967 youth took to the streets to fight for freedom.

According to the convener of the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards Pat Mahlangu, the awards were established with the purpose of shining light on youth excellence and to challenge the narrative that youth is lazy, apathetic and entitled. 

Pat Mahlangu: Convener of the wards

The platform has proven to be powerful through what it has done for the previous winners and nominees. These awards have shined a light on different youth-owned brands across South Africa. This includes brands such as Delivery Ka Speed, Tshepo Jeans, Podcast and Chill, Maison Space and more.

Here’s what you need to know about the 2023 Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards:  

Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards 2022 trophies
Two-day festival?

Imagine a shopping mall of only South African, youth-owned brands? For the first time in the African continent, the largest number of only youth-owned brands will be housed under one roof for over two days; 14 and 15 June 2023.  

What are the categories?

The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards include a wide variety of categories, namely Accessories, Beverages, Agriculture, Beauty, Apparel, Homeware, Media, NPO Charities, Education, Personalities and Influencers, Footwear, Food, Travel and Tourism, Technology, Services and newly introduced category, Health and Wellness. 

Is it only in Gauteng?

The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards team will be embarking on a nationwide roadshow to create more awareness about the awards and to educate the youth about the importance of marketing and branding. Provinces such as KZN, Western Cape, Gauteng and Limpopo can expect to be a part of these masterclasses. 

How do you nominate? 

When the inaugural Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards were launched, they were housed under the Pat on Brands website. For 2023 and beyond all the information about the awards will be available on the brand-new website: www.top16yoba.co.za. The public can nominate their favourite youth-owned brands via the website. Nominations close on 20 April 2023. 

Who qualifies?

In order for brands to qualify for the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards, they need to meet the following criteria:  

  • Must be owned and run by people between the ages of 18 and 35. 
  • The brand must be older than 1 year 
  • The brand must have a website (not mandatory) with the brand name as its domain. 
  • The brand must be active on social media 
  • Must be operating in one (or more) of the listed categories. 
  • Must be South African 
How do you become a part of the judges? 

The 2022 judges will be retained, however, due to the high expected number of entries, there is an open call for additional judges to be nominated to join the jury. Judges can be nominated on Jury Nominations – Top16YOBA 

How do you become a partner?

Various sponsorship opportunities are available for corporates that are looking to support youth-owned brands. Last year’s sponsors included companies such as Sakhumnotho, Reveel, MTN Pulse, Lerato Agency, Khumalo and Mabuya, Global Business School of Entrepreneurship, NikNaks, UJFM and Black Crown. Email info@top16yoba.co.za to become a part of this innovative experience. Last year’s sponsors had the chance to be mentioned through the PR we received, which amounted to the total PR value of R2,424,641.61. 

 The 2023 nominations are now open!  

Sold-Out Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards 2022

You can watch the 2022 Top 16 youth-owned brands awards on: Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards 2022 brought you by Sakhumnotho| Hulisani Ravhele | Thebe Ikalafeng 

“Amex ZA Graphic Arts Challenge” winners and Rosebank mural announced

Five local artists were announced as winners of the inaugural “Amex ZA Graphic Arts Challenge”. The announcement was made at a First Thursdays exhibition at Keyes Art Mile in Rosebank on 2 March 2023. Graphic artists, illustrators, and designers were called to create artwork based on the theme, ‘the vibrant African marketplace – everyone is welcome’. Winning artwork will be featured in new marketing materials for businesses who welcome American Express Card Members in South Africa.

John Wills (Amex), Khensi Nobanda (Nedbank) with the winners

The challenge was organised by Nedbank, the authorised card issuer and merchant acquirer of American Express in South Africa.

The five winners, Mark Modimola, Nene Mahlangu, Hlulani Trevor Hlongwane, Michelle Ewany Opani and Althea Botha, were each awarded R100 000, distributed by Nedbank, and will soon see their work appear on signage in American Express-accepting merchants across South Africa.

Khensi Nobanda (Nedbank) and Nene Mahlangu (winner)

American Express and Nedbank also announced that, in partnership with Keyes Art Mile, mural of Mark Modimola’s work, Ubuntu Flux will be painted on the side of the Trumpet building. This will be the first major mural on a landmark building in Rosebank and signifies American Express’s commitment to spreading messages of acceptance within the communities of South Africa.

‘We are so inspired by the number of high-quality entries received from South Africa’s wealth of talented creatives,’ says James Wainaina, Business Development Vice President, Sub-Saharan Africa, American Express. ‘The winning entries are all rooted in the vibrant hospitality that South Africa is known for globally and carry welcoming messages that American Express is proud to support.’

Winning artwork by Michelle Ewany

The panel of judges included Lady Skollie, a visual artist; Theresa Mkwanazi (Head of Product Marketing at Nedbank); Moemise Kekana (Integrated Creative Director at Joe Public United); Zanele Kumalo (Editor, Digital Media Specialist and Associate Director at Kalashnikovv Gallery); Theresho Selesho (Creative Entrepreneur and CEO of Matchbox Live); Maaike Bakker (Head of Visual Communication at Open Window); and Eben Keun (Founder and Chief Brand Architect at Breinstorm Brand Architects).

For more information, visit www.graphicarts.africa