The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards (YOBAs) announces a team of marketing and branding experts, academics and accomplished entrepreneurs to judge its 4th edition. The judges are tasked with one mission; TO RECOGNISE YOUTH EXCELLENCE. Every year, the YOBAs receive thousands of entries from youth-owned business across the continent of African and this year was no different.
In 2024, the Top 16 YOBAs received an influx of over 3000 nominations spanning across 15 African countries. This is a reflection of the growing impact and momentum of youth-owned brands within the continent. Each nomination speaks to the power of passion, resilience and ingenuity driving Africa’s future.
Previous winners of the YOBAs include Tshepo Jeans, Bathu, Legends Barber, Hermosa Flor, Delivery Ka Speed amongst others. These brands are the embodiment of Youth Excellence.
Leadership with Vision: Tumelo Chaka Appointed Chairperson.
At the helm of this year’s jury is Tumelo Chaka, an esteemed leader in the marketing and communications industry. Under his leadership, the judging process ensures to maintain the integrity, fairness and calibre of excellence that the YOBAs have become known for. Tumelo believes in the power of the youth in the development of the African continent.
“Youth as a segment is a critical consumer and entrepreneurial base in Africa. Top 16 YOBAs is at the centre of this revolution.” said Tumelo Chaka.
Tumelo will be joined by established professionals across the marketing, media, academia, business and entrepreneurship industries. Their collective experience ensures a strong and credible judging process that embraces authenticity, creativity and impact.
Meet the Judges
This year’s judges are:
- Ayanda Nkosi – Head of Marketing and Distribution (South Africa)
- Chef Naledi – Award-Winning Chef, Food Brand Ambassador & Brand Educator (South Africa)
- Heather Khumalo – Seasoned Marketing Professional (South Africa)
- Isabel Masi-Kanchinjika – Award-winning Brand and Marketing Strategist (Malawi)
- Jonathan James Lyamgohn – Broadcaster (Nigeria)
- Keneilwe Boipelo Mekgwe – Marketing and Brand Executive (South Africa)
- Lebo Gaoketse- Head of Marketing and Communications (South Africa)
- Mbali Sebapu – Award-winning CEO and Founder (South Africa)
- Palesa Mabuse – Senior Managing Partner (South Africa)
- Phelane Phomane – Group Chief Executive Officer (South Africa)
- Sebenzile Nqcobo – Senior Marketing Manager (South Africa)
- Sheldon Tatchell- Founder & CEO Legends Barber Corporation (South Africa)
- Thabelo Raphala – Seasoned Business Leader, Accountant, Auditor, and Strategist (South Africa)
- Thoko Modise – Head of Communication (South Africa)
- Vincent Maphosa- Founder and CEO at Wetility (South Africa)
- Mirriam Mathebula- Seasoned Corporate Professional (South Africa)
- Ntsika Tyatya- Communications and Culture Lead (South Africa)
- Tebatso Mokgoro- Marketing Professional (South Africa)
- Tshepang Makofane- Head of Brand Partnership (South Africa)
- Motshidisi Mokwena- Head of Reputation & Regulatory Affairs (South Africa)
- Albert Makoeng – Managing Director (South Africa)
- Siyabonga ‘Slikour’ Metane – Rapper & Entrepreneur (South Africa)
- Keagile Makgoba- Head of Communications Tech Industry (South Africa)
The 2025 awards show promises to be the most inspiring, yet elegant ceremony scheduled to take place on the 21st of June 2025 in Johannesburg. Book your tickets now.
