The 2nd Annual Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards, brought to you by Standard Bank, is set to ignite the entrepreneurial spirit and celebrate the achievements of young black entrepreneurs in South Africa. 

The launch of the 2nd Annual Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards took place at the prestigious Solo Restaurant in Sandton, where members of the media, marketers, and key stakeholders gathered to witness the beginning of a revolutionary movement. 

Hosted by last year's winner, Pamela Mtanga, the launch not only entertained but also informed the attendees about the upcoming awards.

Pat Mahlangu, the convener of the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards, emphasised the purpose behind these awards, which is to shine a light on youth excellence and challenge the negative stereotypes often associated with young people, such as laziness, apathy, and entitlement. These awards aim to prove that young entrepreneurs are determined, talented, and deserving of recognition and support.

The platform has already demonstrated its power by showcasing the achievements of previous winners and nominees, putting a spotlight on outstanding youth-owned brands across South Africa. Some of these brands include Delivery Ka Speed, Tshepo Jeans, Podcast and Chill, Maison Space, and many more. The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards have not only provided visibility but also propelled these brands to new heights.

So, what can we expect from the 2023 Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards? Here's everything you need to know:

1. Two-day Festival of Youth-Owned Brands: Imagine a shopping mall filled with only South African youth-owned brands. For the first time on the African continent, the largest gathering of such brands will be housed under one roof for over two days on the 14th and 15th of June 2023. This festival promises to be a remarkable showcase of young talent, creativity, and entrepreneurship.

2. Diverse Categories: The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards encompass a wide range of categories, ensuring that various industries and sectors are represented. These categories include Accessories, Beverages, Agriculture, Beauty, Apparel, Homeware, Media, NPO Charities, Education, Personalities and Influencers, Footwear, Food, Travel and Tourism, Technology, Services, and the newly introduced category, Health and Wellness. This comprehensive approach reflects the diversity and innovation within the youth-owned business landscape.

3. Nationwide Roadshow: To generate awareness about the awards and educate young entrepreneurs on marketing and branding, the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards team will embark on a nationwide roadshow. Provinces such as KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape, Gauteng, and Limpopo will have the opportunity to participate in these informative masterclasses. This initiative aims to empower young entrepreneurs and equip them with the skills and knowledge needed for success.

4. Nominations: The nomination process has been made simple and accessible. In previous years, nominations were submitted through the Pat on Brand's website. However, for the 2023 edition and beyond, all information about the awards is available on the brand-new website: www.top16yoba.co.za. The public is encouraged to nominate their favourite youth-owned brands via the website. The nomination period closes on 20th April 2023.

5. Qualification Criteria: To be eligible for the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards, brands must meet specific criteria. They must be owned and run by individuals between the ages of 18 and 35, showcasing the vibrancy and potential of young entrepreneurs. Additionally, the brand must be operating for more than one year, demonstrating sustainability and growth. While having a website is not mandatory, it is encouraged, with the brand name serving as the domain to enhance visibility and professionalism. An active presence on social media is also required, recognising the importance of digital marketing in today's business landscape. Lastly, the brand must operate in one or more of the listed categories and be proudly South African, contributing to the growth and development of the local economy.

6. Joining the Judging Panel: The judges for the 2022 awards will be retained for the 2023 edition. However, with an anticipated high number of entries, an open call for additional judges has been made. Nominations for potential judges can be submitted on the Jury Nominations page of the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards website. This inclusive approach ensures diverse perspectives and expertise in evaluating and selecting deserving winners.

7. Sponsorship Opportunities: The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards offers various sponsorship opportunities for corporates looking to support and uplift youth-owned brands. Last year's sponsors included notable companies such as Sakhumnotho, Reveel, MTN Pulse, Lerato Agency, Khumalo and Mabuya, Global Business School of Entrepreneurship, NikNaks, UJFM, and Black Crown. Sponsors receive significant exposure through the PR generated by the awards, totaling an impressive PR value of R2,424,641.61. To become a part of this innovative experience and contribute to the empowerment of young entrepreneurs, interested companies can contact info@top16yoba.co.za.

As Joburg Post, we proudly support the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards and their mission to recognize, uplift, and celebrate the achievements of young black entrepreneurs.

We believe in changing the narrative and creating a platform that amplifies their voices and showcases their resilience, creativity, and contribution to economic growth in South Africa. 

This year's awards will not only recognize outstanding young entrepreneurs but also provide a platform for their voices to be heard and their businesses to thrive. Through the festival, diverse categories, nationwide roadshows, nominations, and sponsorships, this event is set to elevate the status of young black entrepreneurs in South Africa.