KnM AUDITORS RETURN TO THE YOBAs, ENSURING TRANSPARENCY AND INTEGRITY

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 YOBAs will take place on 22 June 2024 at The Capital on The Park, 101 Katherine Str. Sandown, Sandton. Tickets are also available here. General admission tickets are available at R900 and VIP at R1850.

For more information on the YOBAs please and this year’s finalists, visit, www.top16yoba.africa

CITY LODGE HOTELS JOINS THE 3RD ANNUAL TOP 16 YOBAs AS AN EXCLUSIVE ACCOMMODATION PARTNER

City Lodge Hotel

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.

To book, guests can visit City Lodge Hotels’ website at www.citylodgehotels.com.

The YOBAs will take place on 22 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 on the YOBAs and this year’s finalists, visit www.top16yoba.africa

LEGENDS BARBER PAYS IT FORWARD WITH THE 3RD ANNUAL TOP 16 YOBAs

Legends Barber Shop

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

YOBAS BLUE CARPET PRESENTER SEARCH!

The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards are looking for young, vibrant and energetic host for our Blue Carpet Experience on the 22nd of June 2024.

Interested participants will get an opportunity to enlist their name by submitting a 30 to 60 seconds video on social media (Instagram, X and TikTok) and tag @Top16YOBA and use the hashtag #YOBABlueCarpet.
A selected number of staff members will assist with selecting the winners consisting of 1 Male and 1 Female. 

The winners will be announced on Thursday 20 June 2024.


TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

  1. Please note that these terms and conditions will be a binding agreement between the party and the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards (YOBAs).
  2. The party acknowledges that they are continuing in the competition out of their own free will.
  3. The prize for this competition is the opportunity to co-host the Blue Carpet Experience at the 3rd annual Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards on 22 June 2024 in Sandton, South Africa.  This is subject to change at the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards, without any prior notice.
  4. Please note that the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards is not implying or directly offering or even promising the party any kind of employment beyond the prize stated in point number 3.
  5. Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards is not and will not be liable for any cost implications (Accommodation, food or transport) arising from the party’s presence being requested at the venue either before or during the prize redemption period.
  6. The party enters this competition at their own risk and the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards will not be held liable for any loss they may incur in any way as a result of taking part in the competition.
  7. Entries for the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards presenters search starts on the 13th of June 2024 and closes on the 20th of June 2024.
  8. The party will need to be available for a telephonic interview.
  9. The party gives the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards the right to use the party’s name, pictures and videos on the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards’ social media platforms, website and on-air as part of promoting the competition and for record purposes.
  10. Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards reserve the right to amend any elements of the competition without prior notice.
  11. This competition is organized by Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards, and it will run from the 13th of June 2024 until the 20th of June 2024.
  12. Each entry should consist of a 30 to 60 seconds video submitted to be submitted via X, Instagram and/or TikTok using #Top16YOBA #YOBABlueCarpet
  13. Competition is open to people between the ages of 18 and 35.
  14. The competition is open to all Africans; however, preference will be given to South African residents.
  15. Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards reserve the right to disqualify any entrants based on its own discretion without needing to justify such action, even after the announcement.
  16. The winners will be contacted by the 20th of June via telephone.
  17. For all queries in respect of this competition, please contact the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards on 011 593 2370.
  18. These terms and conditions are used in addition to the organizer’s terms and conditions.

TV PRESENTER KGOSI RANKHUMISE AND FORMER MISS BOTSWANA PALESA MOLEFE SET TO HOST 3RD ANNUAL YOBAS!

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”.

The YOBAs will take place on the 22nd of June 2024 in Sandton. The public is encouraged to attend by booking their seats here.

For more information on the YOBAs please and this year’s finalists, visit, www.top16yoba.africa

PROUDLY SA ENDORSES THE TOP 16 YOUTH-OWNED BRANDS AWARDS

Image :Proudly South African

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.

For more information on the YOBAs please visit www.top16yoba.africa.

MOSA NTWAMPE TAKES THE REINS AS CHAIRPERSON OF THE 3RD ANNUAL YOBAs JURY

Mosa Ntwampe, YOBAs Jury Chairperson

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

CADBURY LUNCH BAR RETURNS AS A PROUD SPONSOR FOR THE 3RD ANNUAL TOP 16 YOBA AWARDS

The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards (YOBA) is thrilled to announce the return of Cadbury Lunch Bar as a sponsor for the prestigious event. As a leading local brand renowned for its commitment to supporting Africans striving for excellence, Cadbury Lunch Bar will endorse the ‘Personalities and Influencers’ category at the 2024 Top 16 YOBAs.


The ‘Personalities and Influencers’ category embodies the spirit of individuality and creativity, daring individuals to carve their unique paths and make significant impacts in their respective fields. By championing this category, Cadbury Lunch Bar continues its mission of empowering youth to reach new heights of success and innovation.


Cadbury Lunch Bar is dedicated to supporting Africans who strive for much much more in their creative endeavours and professional pursuits. The collaboration with this year’s YOBAs reflects their commitment to nurturing an entrepreneurial mindset among the youth.
Pat Mahlangu, CEO and Founder of the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards, shares his excitement about Cadbury Lunch Bar’s continued support, “We are honoured to have Cadbury Lunch Bar onboard once again as a sponsor for our event. Their commitment to celebrating and uplifting young Africans aligns perfectly with our mission to recognize and showcase youth excellence.”


As an entity that aims to recognise and celebrate youth excellence, the 2024 Top 16 YOBAs acknowledge the youth in Africa who are not only contributing to the economy but also the overall image shaping of the continent.


The partnership between Cadbury Lunch Bar and the Top 16 YOBAs highlights a shared vision of empowering and celebrating the achievements of young creators. Through this collaboration, both parties aim to elevate the nominees and winners of the ‘Personalities and Influencers’ category, providing them with a platform to showcase their talents and contributions to society.


The 3rd Annual Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards will kick off with the Festival of Youth-Owned Brands on 21 June 2024, followed by the awards ceremony on the evening of 22 June 2024, at the Sandton Convention Centre. The festival will feature keynote speakers and industry experts, offering attendees valuable insights and networking opportunities.

EARLY BIRD TICKETS ARE OFFICIALLY ON SALE FOR THE 3RD ANNUAL TOP 16 YOUTH-OWNED BRANDS AWARDS

A limited number of early bird tickets for the 3rd annual Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards are officially on sale. Get your tickets today and experience youth excellence.  

This year’s festivities promise to be bigger, bolder, and more inspiring than ever before. The event will feature dynamic brand exhibitions, inspiring speakers, and entertainment from SA’s top artists. Attendees will be treated to an unforgettable experience, celebrating the infinite potential and accomplishments of young entrepreneurs across Africa.

In 2023, the festival drew over 2 500 attendees, with 70 youth-owned brands showcasing. The stage was set on fire with electrifying performances from Boohle and the King of Amapiano, Kabza De Small. The attendees included notable personalities like Nomzamo Mbatha, Khuli Chana, and The Gorgeous Mbali, who amongst many had her brand Hermosa Flor as part of the exhibition.

This year, the YOBAs are poised to deliver yet another unforgettable experience, with a line-up that promises to be nothing short of spectacular.

The awards ceremony will take place on 22 June at Sandton Convention Centre and will be preceded by the festival on 21 June, where attendees will get exposed to the exhibitions, masterclasses, and a chance to interact with young entrepreneurs.

Early bird tickets for the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards are on sale and available at a variety of options to tailor your experience:

Exhibitions + Awards

21 – 22 June 2024 – 08:00

Day 1 + Day 2 + Awards – R950 – R1500

Day 2 + Awards – 22 Jun 2024 – R830 – R1000

Awards Only

22 Jun 2024 – 18:00

Day 2 (awards only) – Prices: R750 – R900

Exhibitions Only

21 Jun 2024 – 08:00

Day 1 (Exhibitions Only) – R200 – R250

Day 2 (Exhibitions Only) – R200 – R250

Day 1 + 2 (Exhibitions Only) – R350 – R450

Pat Mahlangu, CEO and Founder of the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming event, “This year’s Top 16 YOBAs is more than just an awards ceremony; it’s a showcase of resilience, creativity, and the entrepreneurial spirit of our youth. We invite the public to join us for an exciting journey of inspiration and empowerment”.

Early bird tickets are available until 31 March 2024. Don’t miss your chance to secure yours and be part of the extraordinary celebration of youth excellence. Visit Webtickets today and reserve your spot at this year’s YOBA awards.

For more information on ticket sales or the YOBAs, visit  www.top16yoba.africa