The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards (YOBAs) has officially announced its distinguished jury panel for the fifth edition of the awards, bringing together a collective of marketing and branding experts, academics and accomplished entrepreneurs tasked with one mission: recognising youth excellence across Africa.
Every year, the YOBAs receive thousands of entries from youth-owned businesses across the African continent, and 2026 has proven no different.
In 2024, the Top 16 YOBAs recorded an impressive influx of more than 3 000 nominations spanning 15 African countries — a clear reflection of the growing impact, innovation and momentum of youth-owned brands across the continent. Each nomination represents the passion, resilience and ingenuity shaping Africa’s future economy.
Previous winners of the YOBAs include celebrated brands such as Tshepo Jeans, Bathu, Legends Barber, Hermosa Flor and Delivery Ka Speed. The awards have also recognised influential personalities such as Grace Mondlana and Robot Boii. Together, these winners continue to embody the spirit of youth excellence, creativity and entrepreneurship across the continent.
Leadership with Vision: Dr Tumelo Chaka Returns as Chairperson
At the helm of this year’s jury is Dr Tumelo Chaka, who returns as Chairperson of the Jury. Widely respected in the marketing and communications industry, Dr Chaka’s leadership continues to uphold the integrity, fairness and calibre of excellence that the YOBAs have become known for.
Dr Chaka strongly believes in the role of young people in driving the development and transformation of the African continent.
“I am honoured to serve as Chairman of the Jury for the Youth-Owned Brands Awards (YOBAs) for a second term — a platform that recognises the creativity, resilience and innovation of youth-led brands shaping the future of South Africa.
“What makes this moment important is the intersection between cultural intelligence, audio platforms and media synergy in understanding the youth market. Today’s youth audience is not only digitally connected; they are culturally aware, influence-driven and purpose-led.
“As leaders in media and brand strategy, we must continue building ecosystems that authentically connect with young audiences through storytelling, sound, culture and strategic partnerships.
“The future of brand growth belongs to those who understand culture before they understand campaigns.”
Meet the Judges
This year’s jury panel includes respected leaders from across business, media and marketing industries:
- Dr Tumelo Chaka — Commercial and Marketing Director, United Stations
- Nokwanda Khumalo — General Manager: Mobility & Convenience, BP Southern Africa
- Ayanda Nkosi — Head of Marketing and Distribution, Old Mutual
- Anele Nzimande-Maphanga — CEO & Founder, Stellar Rock Consulting
- Boipelo Mekgwe — Head of Marketing, Vaseline Southern Africa
- Dr Relebohiseng Matubatuba — Head of Marketing Division, Wits School of Business Sciences
- Heather Khumalo — Senior Marketing Lead, Unilever
- Laureen Mxoli — Earned Media & Influencer Marketing Lead, Unilever
- Mbali Sebapu — CEO & Founder, Hermosa Flor Cosmetics
- Mirriam Mathebula — Senior Marketing Manager, MTN South Africa
- Motshidisi Mokwena — Communications & Reputation Management Professional, CCBSA
- Ntsika Tyatya — Communications and Culture Lead, MAXHOSA AFRICA
- Palesa Mabuse — Co-founder & Managing Director, Nalesa Media
- Prof Nombulelo Dilotshotlhe — Associate Professor & Chair of Department: Marketing and Retail Management, UNISA
- Sli Mafuleka — Head of Integrated Media, Tiger Brands
Celebrating Africa’s Young Brand Builders
The 2026 edition of the YOBAs continues to position itself as a premier platform celebrating the innovation, creativity and impact of young African entrepreneurs. The awards not only honour outstanding youth-owned businesses but also amplify stories of brands redefining industries and inspiring the next generation of African business leaders.
The 2026 awards ceremony promises to be the most inspiring and elegant celebration yet, scheduled to take place on the 27th of June 2026 in Johannesburg. Guests can expect an evening dedicated to honouring excellence, innovation and the future of African entrepreneurship.
Tickets for the ceremony are now available.
Read more about Young & Building Brands Dialogue.
