Encouraging young people to pursue entrepreneurship in Sandton
The Top 16 YOBAs are aimed at recognising and empowering proudly South African brands that are owned by the youth (between the ages of 18 and 35).
The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards (Top 16 YOBAs) took place on June 14 and 15 at the Sandton Convention Centre.
The two-day event started with festivals during the day alongside masterclasses and ended with the highly anticipated Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards ceremony on the evening of June 15.
The Top 16 YOBAs were established in 2022 to recognise and celebrate young entrepreneurs who have created and grown successful businesses in South Africa. The awards aim to inspire and encourage young people to pursue entrepreneurship and to support the growth of small businesses in the country.
The festivals featured insightful panel discussions and masterclasses by esteemed South African business community leaders. The sessions provided invaluable knowledge and guidance for young entrepreneurs, equipping them with the necessary tools to excel in their ventures.
Speaking at the opening of the festival on day one, founder of the awards Pat Mahlangu said it is important to commend thriving youth businesses.
“The Festival of Youth-Owned Brands will serve as a platform for remarkable young entrepreneurs to exhibit their offerings and demonstrate their extraordinary talents, and here today we want to celebrate young and locally owned brands.”
He drew an imaginary picture for all the attendees and said, “Imagine getting into a mall where all the stores are owned by young South Africans.
“That is the future we are aiming for, and I hope all of you will have fun and learn more about business, and maybe one day you too will have a successful business.”
Related Article:
https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/331688/siso25allangrey/
