Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards Announce 2025 Finalists
A Celebration of African Youth Entrepreneurship
The 4th Annual Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards (YOBAs) officially unveiled its 2025 finalists during a vibrant event at the Courtyard Hotel in Waterfall City. As the only platform on the continent dedicated to honouring youth-owned brands, the YOBAs continue to amplify the voices and ventures of Africa’s young entrepreneurs.
Honouring the Legacy of June 16
Rooted in the historic legacy of June 16, 1976, the YOBAs symbolise empowerment and resilience. This date, recognised by the African Union as the Day of the African Child, aligns with the awards’ mission to elevate youth excellence across the continent.
A Growing Movement of Impact and Innovation
“The YOBAs have, over the past four years, set a benchmark for recognising youth-led innovation and impact,”
said Pat Mahlangu, Founder of the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards.
“This platform continues to grow into a powerful movement that validates the efforts of young Africans who are reshaping the business landscape.”
Powerful Partnerships with Purpose
The 2025 edition is proudly supported by First National Bank (FNB) and WesBank as gold sponsors. Speaking on the bank’s involvement, Janis Robson, Head of Business Development at FNB, said:
“At FNB, we’re passionate about supporting youth-led enterprises because we believe they are key to building a sustainable and inclusive economy.”
2025 Finalist Categories
Top Manufacturing Brand
- Modern Sleep
- The Warehouse Boys
- Phat Sii Clothing
- AUKO Designs
Top Technology Brand
- Darkies in Tech
- Cape MedTech
- TosaPay
- Computer Guardian
Top Food & Beverages Brand
- The Sweet Slice Luxe Cakery
- Caked Pretty
- Breakfast or Lunch
- Glo Whips Bakery
Top Health & Wellness Brand
- Wisdom & Wellness
- Hikeobics
- Mageba Wellness
- The Blend Wellness
Top Education & Literature Brand
- CatalyzU
- Let’s Play Outside
- CareerKit
- Speakingdom
Top Agriculture Brand
- Arable Growth
- Khula!
- Bellarosa WIP Productions
- Warm Nest Enterprise
Top Creative & Arts Brand
- Shala The Unicorn
- Vetkoek Studios
- Isa B Jewellery Design
- Maremo Violin
Top Apparel Brand
- BOYDE
- BLANK COLLECTION
- Future Youth Museum
- RE-L8
Top Media Brand
- Blxck Natives Media
- Branding Africa
- House of 30
- Motsepe Advertising
Top Travel & Tourism Brand
- Hikeobics
- Twin Venture
- Asambeni Getaway Gateway
- NBGS Travel
Top Footwear & Accessories Brand
- Emerys Designer
- NOH Eyewear
- PRUDENT
- Retrofit Boss
Top Services Brand
- Sneaker Cleanic
- Nexelica
- Pink Apron Food and Decor
- Likha Luxe
Top Personalities & Influencers Brand
- Sipho Alphie
- Grace Mondlana
- Banele Ndaba (Moghelingz)
- Mandisi Tshingana
Top NPO & Charities Brand
- Makers Valley Collective
- Dream Big Stay Humble
- Ndalo Pioneer NPC
- GirlCode
Top Homeware Brand
- Litehouse
- CloudHaus
- Reliable Renders Home-Deco
- Rayetsa Furniture
Top Hair & Beauty Brand
- Afro Curl
- Standard Beauty
- Kiddies Korner Hair Salon
- Malachi Organics
Introducing Pan-African Recognition
Top East Africa Brand
- Nawiri Nami
- Beyond Kenyan Bars
- Africa Afya Healthcare
- Mobiklinik Foundation
Top SADC Brand
- Rukanda Pride
- iPrint Namibia
- Drones For Africa
- Ramani
These newly added Pan-African categories underscore the continental reach of youth entrepreneurship and spotlight brands tackling challenges while driving growth, employment, and innovation.
Nomination & Eligibility Criteria
Nominations were open from 24 February to 18 April, with the public submitting entries through the official website.
To qualify, brands had to meet the following criteria:
- Owned and operated by individuals aged 18–35
- Operational for more than one year
- Demonstrate an active digital or social media presence
- Be South African-owned (except Pan-African categories)
- Preferably have a domain-matching website
2025 Awards Ceremony
Winners were officially announced at a festive awards ceremony on 21 June 2025 in Sandton, as part of South Africa’s Youth Month celebrations.
More Information & Tickets
Visit www.top16yoba.co.za to learn more about the finalists and secure tickets to future events.