Six young changemakers from around South Africa saw their dreams come true on Friday, 29 October at the inaugural Nedbank YouthX Summit. Hosted at the Vodacom Dome in Midrand, the event was created to award and celebrate young changemakers who entered their work as part of YouthX programme. Out of 16 finalists, 6 winners were picked, representing each of the YouthX categories.
Kea Leeuw (Fashion and Beauty), Mulalo Phaswana (Arts and Entertainment), Asanda Madi (Business and Finance), Thobinceba Qambela (Social Good and Sustainability), Lona Mbelekane (Sport and Wellness) and Keitumetsi Pule (Tech and Innovation) were each handed over an award by the YouthX Changemakers; Sho Madjozi, Rich Mnisi, Theo Baloyi, Candice Chirwa, Amanda Dlamini and Rivo Mhlari. Changemaker of the Year honours went to Keitumetse Pule having received the highest score.
Thrilled to be part of the winners list, Keitumetse Pule said, ‘I’m so excited to be counted among the winners tonight and walk away with the Tech & Innovation and Changemaker of the Year awards! This is beyond my wildest dreams and I’d like to thank everyone who supported me and encouraged me to enter. Thanks to Nedbank and the Changemakers, especially Rivo Mhlari for all the masterclasses and great tips they shared during the YouthX Live events throughout the year. This is only the beginning for me, my hope is to inspire other young people especially in my industry to believe in themselves and never give up on their dreams.’
Each winner walked away with R300 000 worth of prizes including R50 000 in cash, Huawei technology bundle and a mentorship, learning or networking opportunity. As part of the YouthX programme, the awards were created to inspire the youth and give them the opportunity to win prizes to fund their business ideas, existing businesses, or opportunities to further their careers. Winners were judged by the YouthX changemakers, industry experts and leaders based on; 40% creativity, 40% innovation and 20% community upliftment.
Nedbank’s Group Executive for Marketing and Corporate Affairs, Khensani Nobanda said, ‘When we launched the YouthX programme in March this year, the unemployment rate among the youth was at a record high. As Nedbank, we saw an opportunity to assist the youth of South Africa by providing resources that will enable them to unlock their potential whether in their businesses, careers, communities or other interests. We have always been passionate about young people and today is great demonstration of our commitment to the youth. Congratulations to all the winners, may you continue to push boundaries and inspire other young people in your communities.’
The event was hosted by the YouthX Live events host Pamela Mtanga and award-winning actor and presenter Lawrence Maleka. Guests were also enjoyed entertainment from leading artists such as Amapiano dancer & vocalist Kamo Mphela, Costa Titch, Vuyani Dance Company, Holly Rey and house duo Black Motion.
To catch the YouthX Summit event, tune in to Mzansi Magic DSTV Channel 161 on Saturday, 13 November 2021.
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