Afrocurl Makes History as Overall Top Brand
Leading the class of 2025 is Afrocurl, awarded the prestigious title of Overall Top Brand of the Year. Sponsored by FNB/WesBank, Afrocurl also took home the Top Hair & Beauty Brand title. This win is historic. Not only is Afrocurl the first overall winner based outside of Gauteng, but it’s also the first female-owned brand to claim the title.
This achievement marks a turning point for the awards, showcasing the diversity of South Africa’s youth-led excellence and affirming that brilliance knows no provincial boundaries. Afrocurl’s rise speaks to the growing impact of women entrepreneurs and the power of embracing authenticity in beauty.
Akani Simbine Honoured with The Global Excellence Award
In a powerful moment of national pride, elite sprinter Akani Simbine received the Global Excellence Award, presented by Brand South Africa. This special, non-voting award recognizes South Africans whose impact on the global stage uplifts the national identity and inspires unity.
Simbine made history in 2025 by becoming the first athlete to run sub-10-second 100m times for 11 consecutive seasons—surpassing even Usain Bolt. He also earned his first global individual medal with a 60m bronze at the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Nanjing. His discipline, consistency, and pride in the national flag make him a perfect symbol of excellence and perseverance.
A Pan-African Stage for Emerging Giants
The 2025 YOBAs marked a bold step forward by recognizing brands beyond South Africa’s borders, reaffirming the awards as a Pan-African platform. iPrint Namibia became the first-ever winner from outside South Africa, earning the title of Top SADC Brand. This groundbreaking win reflects a growing movement to celebrate youth-owned excellence across the continent.
In addition, Africa Afya Healthcare, based in East Africa, received the title of Top East Africa Brand for its work in youth-led, accessible healthcare innovation. These wins represent a growing regional footprint and the cross-border impact of youth entrepreneurship.
Top Brands Across Different Fields and Places
This year’s winners reflect a wide geographic footprint and diverse sectors, underscoring the borderless brilliance of Africa’s youth:
Khula! was awarded the Top Agriculture Brand for its groundbreaking work in revolutionizing agribusiness through technology. Recognized for its innovative platform that connects smallholder farmers with markets, suppliers, and financial services, Khula! is playing a critical role in modernizing agriculture in South Africa and beyond.
Creatives on the Rise
In culture, fashion, and food, the winners reflected the fusion of creativity and commerce:
Blank Collection (Top Apparel Brand, sponsored by W&RSETA) and NOH Eyewear (Top Footwear & Accessories, supported by Delivery Ka Speed) proved that premium youth-led fashion is not only viable, it’s vibrant.
The Sweet Slice Luxe Bakery (sponsored by Coca-Cola Beverages SA) took Top Food & Beverages Brand, and turned dessert into a lifestyle, celebrating entrepreneurship through flavour and design.
Shala The Unicorn, awarded Top Creative & Arts Brand, demonstrated that imaginative storytelling and brand identity can co-exist beautifully.
Health, Education & Equality
Beyond profit, these youth-owned ventures are building ecosystems of empowerment:
Wisdom & Wellness was recognized as Top Health & Wellness Brand for promoting mental and physical well-being.
Career Kit, awarded Top Education Brand (sponsored by Pat On Brands), continues to equip the next generation with tools for success.
GirlCode, named Top NPO & Charity Brand, is closing the gender gap in tech through education and advocacy.
Meanwhile, brands such as Computer Guardian (Top Technology, sponsored by Lerato Agency) and Sneaker Cleanic (Top Services, sponsored by Legends Barber) are blending innovation with social impact.
Lifestyle and Defining New Spaces
From home design to tourism and storytelling, the 2025 winners are shaping how we live, explore, and connect:
Reliable Renders Home (Top Homeware Brand, sponsored by City Lodge Hotel Group) is redefining how young people approach interior spaces.
Motsepe Advertising, named Top Media Brand (sponsored by SABC), is amplifying youth narratives with authenticity and reach.
Asambeni Getaway (Top Travel & Tourism Brand, sponsored by South African Tourism) is reinvigorating local travel with curated experiences.
Grace Mondlana, awarded Top Personality & Influencer (sponsored by MTN Pulse), exemplifies what it means to build a personal brand rooted in substance, influence and personality.
A Generation Defining Its Own Narrative
Each honouree represents a distinct voice in a growing chorus of young African visionaries who are shaping a new narrative of excellence, self-determination, and collective power. More than accolades, these awards mark a shift: a celebration of visionaries who are building with heart, and shaping a future that reflects the brilliance, diversity, and determination of young Africa.
