Entries for the 2025 YouthX Awards are officially open, and this year Nedbank is inviting young South Africans to step forward with their ideas, resilience, and vision. Whether you are building a business, leading a movement in your community, or creating something extraordinary from scratch, this is your opportunity to unlock your potential and gain the support you need to go even further.
Before you rush to submit your application, it is worth reflecting on what makes an entry truly stand out.
“YouthX was built to empower real ventures from real people,” explains John Makgato, Head of Youth Strategy and Client Value Proposition at Nedbank. “We are not looking for perfection. What we want to see is passion, potential, and a sense of purpose. The stronger your entry, the more likely judges will recognise your vision and back it.”
Makgato, who served as a judge in last year’s YouthX Awards, offers valuable advice for crafting a winning submission.
What judges are looking for
Define your why
Judges want to see passion with purpose. Be clear about why you do what you do. Whether it is solving a local problem, uplifting a community, or disrupting an industry, your motivation should be authentic and rooted in real experience.
Bring creativity and originality
Fresh ideas alone are not enough. Present them in a way that feels unique and unexpected. From the product itself to branding, execution, or storytelling, innovation is what will set you apart.
Focus on impact
Your idea should create meaningful change. Show how it addresses real needs or improves lives in ways that matter. Purpose and potential often speak louder than industry buzzwords.
Showcase resilience
Strong entries reflect real challenges and how they were overcome. Share your journey honestly, including setbacks, pivots, and the support you received. Judges want to see staying power, not just quick wins.
Share a vision for growth
Your entry should demonstrate ambition. Paint a clear picture of where your initiative is heading and how YouthX can help you achieve the next stage.
Personality and presentation matter
Bring your story to life with photos, prototypes, or short videos. Judges respond not just to ideas but also to the people behind them. Keep your application polished but personal.
Pay attention to details
Take time to proofread before submitting. A well-written application signals intention and professionalism.
Support and opportunities from Nedbank
“This year, we want more young people to feel seen and supported, especially those who might hesitate to put themselves forward,” adds Makgato. “Nedbank is here to back your hustle with more than words. With up to R200 000 in funding, mentorship, and national exposure, we want to help you move with purpose.”
How to submit your entry
Before you click submit, pause and ask yourself: Is my entry bold, clear, and convincing? Would I invest in this idea if I were a judge? If the answer is yes, then you are not just entering, you are already owning your X.
All entries for the YouthX Awards powered by Nedbank close on 31 August 2025. They are open to South Africans aged 18 to 26 with a qualifying Nedbank account.
Visit youthxbynedbank.co.za to submit your entry and bring your vision to life.
Own Your X
This is not the time to hold back. Do not just enter for vibes. Enter with confidence, passion, and purpose. Show the country what you are building, why it matters, and how you will #UnlockYourX.
