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19 - 20 JUNE 2026 | SANDTON
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JOIN THE CELEBRATION OF YOUTH EXCELLENCE
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Afrocurl takes the Overall top Brand
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WHAT ARE THE YOBAS?​

Celebrating Youth Excellence

Established in 2022, the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards (YOBA) is a platform that
recognises and celebrates youth excellence in Africa. The Top 16 YOBA acknowledges that young people are not only contributing to the economy of Africa but to the overall image of the continent. In a time when the unemployment rate is at an all-time high, these awards
recognise the youth that create jobs and make a difference.

The Gold Standard of Youth Excellence.

AFRICA'S LARGEST youth owned brands

The Festival of Youth Owned Brands is currently the only and largest exhibition on the African
continent which houses youth owned brands. It will be returning for its 2nd edition in June 2024, and this year’s edition will be the biggest edition to date.

The Festival of Youth Owned Brands will bring
together over 2500 professionals across various
industries; 100+ youth owned brands; +50
masterclass sessions conducted by professionals from across the African continent, all under the same roof, for a 2-day action packed opportunity to network and engage.

Register Now

THE TOP16YOBAs EXCITING CATEGORIES:

Creative & Arts

This brand encompasses various artistic forms, such as visual arts, design, music, literature, or performing arts, contributing to cultural enrichment and expression.

Agriculture

This brand demonstrates excellence in farming practices, agribusiness, or agricultural technology, contributing significantly to the agricultural sector's growth and development.

Apparel

This brand offers trendy, stylish, and sustainable clothing options, reflecting the latest fashion trends and meeting consumer preferences.

Food & Beverage

The brand that embodies excellence in creating innovative, high-quality food and beverage products that delight the senses, whether through exceptional culinary craftsmanship, unique flavors, or refreshing drinks.

Hair & Beauty

This brand offers exceptional beauty products, services, or treatments, promoting self-care, confidence, and personal expression.

Homeware

This brand offers home decor, furnishings, or household essentials that enhance living spaces with creativity and practicality.

Media

This brand delivers engaging content, storytelling, or media services, shaping public discourse and cultural narratives.

NPO & Charities

This brand operates as a non-profit organization or charity, addressing pressing social issues and making a positive difference in people's lives.

Travel & tourism

This brand offers unique destinations, accommodations, or services that enhance travel experiences and promote cultural exchange.

Technology

This brand develops cutting-edge products, software, or solutions, driving technological advancement and addressing societal challenges.

Services

This brand offers professional services, solutions, or expertise that meet client needs with excellence and innovation.

Health & Wellness

This brand offers products or services that prioritize physical, mental, and emotional wellness, empowering individuals to lead healthier lifestyles.

Education & Literature

This brand fosters learning, knowledge-sharing, and skill development, making a positive impact on education and literacy within communities.

Pan African Brand

This brand embodies African identity, culture, and values while contributing to economic growth, social development, and regional integration across Africa.

Footwear & Accessories

This category is for those brands that allow us to have a “sole” for the road. These brands design and produce sneakers, formal shoes, and slippers

Personalities and Influencers

This brand leverages social media, content creation, or advocacy to drive positive change and influence societal trends.

Manufacturing

This brand demonstrates exceptional capabilities in production, quality control, and efficiency, contributing to economic growth and development.

Are you ready to be part of the Gold Standard of Youth Excellence In Africa?

We are looking for sponsors for the prestigious 2024 Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards. This groundbreaking event is not just a celebration of youth entrepreneurship but a unique platform that empowers and uplifts the brightest young minds. Please send us an email on info@top16yoba.co.za

Watch the 2025 show

Get a taste of all the fun we had!