Johannesburg, South Africa – May 28, 2025 – The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards (YOBAs) is proud to announce the partnership with Khumalo, Xaba,Xulu (KXX) as the official auditing firm for the 2025 awards ceremony. This is to ensure transparency throughout the whole competition process.
Scheduled for June 21, 2025, in Sandton, the fourth annual YOBAs will celebrate the achievements of young entrepreneurs who are making significant contributions to various sectors of the African economy by building brands and shaping their own narratives.
The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards is Africa’s premier platform dedicated to recognising, celebrating, and empowering excellence among African youth-owned brands. Launched in 2022 by brand expert and entrepreneur Pat Mahlangu, the awards were born out of a desire to spotlight the incredible work being done by youth in building businesses that are shaping culture, driving innovation, and contributing to the country’s economy.
“Maintaining the integrity of our awards is paramount,” said Pat Mahlangu, CEO and Founder of the YOBAs. (insert another quote by Pat)
KXX representative Tlhalefo Pule CA (SA), RA expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “KXX is honoured to partner with the YOBAs as the official auditor. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to integrity, transparency, and
empowering the next generation of African entrepreneurs through credible, impactful recognition.”
The 2025 YOBAs will feature a distinguished panel of judges, including marketing and branding experts, academics, and accomplished entrepreneurs from across Africa. Tumelo Chaka, an esteemed leader in the marketing and communications industry, is serving as the chairperson of the jury, ensuring a fair and rigorous
evaluation process.
Tickets for the awards ceremony are available at www.top16yoba.co.za. For more information about the event, including sponsorship opportunities and media inquiries, please visit the official website or email info@top16yoba.co.za
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About the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards
About the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards (YOBAs): Established in 2022, the YOBAs aim to recognize and celebrate the achievements of youth-owned brands across various sectors in Africa. The awards highlight the contributions of young entrepreneurs to economic growth and social development, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence
About Khumalo, Xaba, Xulu Auditors
Khumalo Xaba Xulu Inc. (KXX) is a new, forward-thinking audit firm that marks a significant milestone in South Africa’s auditing landscape. Born from the strategic merger of KnM Inc., SM Xulu Inc., and Kopax Inc., KXX introduces a fresh voice to an industry long shaped by tradition—one that champions innovation, professionalism, and diverse leadership. This unification brings together a wealth of experience, talent, and vision, enabling KXX to rapidly expand its footprint across
multiple provinces in South Africa.
KXX delivers comprehensive audit, assurance, and advisory services that are designed to meet the needs of businesses navigating today’s complex regulatory and economic environments. KXX envisions becoming a globally recognized and
trusted leader in digital audit and advisory services. Its mission is to revolutionize the auditing landscape by delivering exceptional solutions, harnessing cutting-edge technology, and cultivating strategic partnerships that empower businesses in emerging economies. KXX embraces its black ownership not as a defining label, but as a strength that supports industry transformation and inclusive growth.
