The YouthX Awards serve as a beacon for transformation, offering young changemakers a platform to showcase their business flair, creative ideas and unwavering passion for the communities they serve.

Nedbank says that it invites all young South Africans aged 18 to 26 to participate from Saturday, 19 July to Saturday, 14 September and unlock their potential by entering the YouthX Awards. 

"We are thrilled to launch the 2024 edition of the YouthX Awards as we believe in the potential of every young entrepreneur. Over the past three years, we've seen a significant transformation in the lives of past winners and aim to continue this positive impact on other young South Africans," says Khensani Nobanda, group executive of marketing and corporate affairs at Nedbank. 

YouthX embodies Nedbank's commitment to nurturing the talent, aspirations and careers of South African youth. Central to the YouthX programme is Nedbank's dedication to providing accessible platforms for youth who view money differently, says Nedbank. 

Through the YouthX portal, Nedbank offers a supportive ecosystem that encourages financial literacy, entrepreneurial spirit and personal growth, ensuring that aspiring young entrepreneurs have the support they need to thrive in today's competitive landscape.

According to Nedbank, this annual initiative is part of the comprehensive YouthX initiative, which includes:

  • YouthX Awards
  • YouthX live events, and
  • the annual YX24 festival.  

"I am incredibly grateful to have won the 2023 YouthX Awards," says Wihan Joubert, founder of Drip Markets. "The platform not only provided financial support but also connected me with mentors who shared their expertise and encouraged me to push the boundaries of innovation."

Joubert adds, "I encourage all young South Africans with a passion for making a positive impact to seize this opportunity and enter the YouthX Awards. The awards unlock the power of your X (potential) and open doors to a brighter future."

According to Nedbank, another standout candidate from 2023 was Nthabiseng Msingatha, the visionary behind YouMeta EdTech. Her platform offers personalised learning pathways and practical experiences in the energy sector, ensuring youth are equipped to navigate the evolving landscape. By focussing on justice and education, YouMeta is dedicated to making sure no young person is left behind in this rapidly changing industry. 

Ayanda Majola, founder of Yanda Cosmetics, transformed her struggle with severe acne into a mission to redefine skincare. Yanda Cosmetics provides accessible, affordable and effective medical-grade treatments, challenging the norms of acne care and fostering a culture of empowerment and transformation, says Nedbank. 

The judging criteria for the YouthX Awards will be based on creativity, innovation and community upliftment. Entries will be evaluated on the talent's potential to drive positive change and contribute fresh perspectives to society. This year, the awards aim to identify and celebrate the top 10 young South Africans who exemplify excellence in their respective fields and possess a compelling vision for the future, says the bank.

"Empowering the youth is at the heart of Nedbank's mission. The YouthX Awards celebrate extraordinary young leaders who are shaping the future and inspiring us all. This year's awards promise to be a spectacular event that will encourage more young people to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact in society," says Nobanda. 

In addition to recognition, Nedbank says that the YouthX Awards offer substantial prizes, including: 

  • up to R200 000 in financial support
  • a mentorship programme through the Nedbank Enterprise Team, and
  • financial literacy training and resources.

These prizes are designed to provide crucial financial support, helping winners transform their innovative ideas into successful ventures, showcasing that with the YouthX Awards and Nedbank, young people can truly unlock the power of their X, concludes Nedbank. 

For more information, visit www.unlocked.me. You can also follow the annual YouthX Awards on Facebook, X or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of contributor