Sandton hosts powerful gathering of SA’s leading women and youth entrepreneurs
The long-awaited Next Generation Business Connect awards returned to Sandton with powerful stories of resilience and innovation, honouring women and youth entrepreneurs shaping South Africa’s economic future.
Sandton played host to an inspiring celebration of entrepreneurial excellence on November 26, as the 2025 Next Generation Business Connect Awards honoured some of South Africa’s most dynamic women and youth-led businesses.
The awards ceremony, founded by Angie Lekalakala, CEO of Inabold Enterprises, had originally been scheduled for August but was postponed due to her health.
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Its return was marked by heartfelt reflections, powerful stories and a strong local commitment to fostering an inclusive business ecosystem.
Lekalakala said the initiative remained central to Inabold Enterprises’ mission of uplifting emerging entrepreneurs across the country.
“The Next Gen Business Connect Awards is a flagship initiative of InaBold Enterprises that empowers South Africa’s next-gen entrepreneurs by showcasing innovations, recognising excellence, fostering connections, and empowering women and youth-owned businesses,” she said.
“Our mission is to support these entrepreneurs, driving economic growth and innovation, ultimately bridging the gap in support and promoting sustainable development.”
This year’s awards honoured businesses and individuals making a significant impact in their communities, with categories spanning NPO and Charity of the Year, Beauty and Wellness, Author of the Year, Business Women of the Year, Women in Tech, and more.
One of the most emotional moments of the morning came as Joy Fakude received the Youth Empowerment Star of the Year Award. Known for her rising influence in education, broadcasting and event hosting, Fakude took the audience through a deeply personal reflection of her journey.
“When I was younger, I did not have the best of circumstances, and I had to grow up really quickly,” she said. “I developed a persona that I call the ‘Boss MC’. She handled everything while little me would cry in corners, wondering why this life was given to me.”
“The Boss MC is the lady who’s receiving this award today because she continues to inspire others to stand bold, take up space and truly own who they are.”
The Business Women of the Year Award went to Salt n Light Creatives, co-led by Stephanie Brookes and Denica Thomas. With the company approaching its third anniversary, Brookes expressed pride in their growth and grit.
“The journey so far has been interesting, to say the least, but I’m so proud of our growth and how we’ve pivoted,” Brookes said. “Entrepreneurship brings its own type of challenges, its sacrifices and risks. But today all that hard work is seen and acknowledged, so thank you.”
She also paid tribute to her co-founder, highlighting the strength of their partnership. “I want to thank the woman standing next to me, Denica, my work wife and my dear friend. Thank you for believing in me, for your guidance, your patience, and for being the yin to my yang.”
Lekalakala emphasised that the awards were not merely ceremonial; they were a strategic investment in South Africa’s economic future.
“Through this initiative, we aim to create a network of innovative and forward-thinking leaders who can drive positive change and progress in their respective industries. Ultimately, the awards aspire to contribute to a more vibrant and inclusive business ecosystem in South Africa.”
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