The 2025 YouthX Awards are now accepting submissions, and this year Nedbank invites young South Africans to showcase their determination, innovative ideas, and business concepts. Whether you’re managing a startup, making an impact in your community, or developing something remarkable from the ground up, seize this opportunity to realize your full potential and compete for the support to advance further.
However, before finalizing your submission, let’s delve into how to create an entry that truly distinguishes itself.
‘YouthX was designed to uplift authentic projects from genuine individuals,’ explains John Makgato, Head of Youth Strategy and Client Value Proposition at Nedbank. ‘We are not in pursuit of perfection, but rather passion, potential, and a defined sense of purpose. The more compelling your application is, the higher the chances that a judge will connect with your vision and support it.’
John Makgato, who evaluated the entries at last year’s YouthX Awards, outlines what catches the judges’ attention. Here are essential strategies for submitting a standout entry:
A compelling ‘why’:Judges seek a blend of passion and purpose. Clearly expresswhy your work matters – whether it’s addressing a community issue, empowering those around you, or revolutionizing a sector. Your drive should resonate authentically, grounded in your experiences or insights from your community.
Innovation and uniqueness: Introduce a novel viewpoint. It’s not enough to have a solid concept; it needs to be presented in an engaging and original manner. This could encompass the product itself, its implementation, branding, or the narrative around it – innovation is critical.
Effect:The intention behind your idea should aim to create a substantial change – this might involve solving an urgent issue within your community or enhancing lives in a significant way. Judges wish to grasp the reasoning behind your pursuits and how they relate to a larger cause. It’s not solely about industry jargon but demonstrating intention and promise.
Exhibit determination: The most impressive entries depict real obstacles and the ways in which you have navigated them. Share your story with authenticity. Clarify your challenges, adaptations, and the steady progress you’ve made. Judges are interested in whether you’re committed for the long haul. Sometimes resilience isn’t a solo endeavor, so if you’ve had a supportive team or mentors, acknowledge their contributions.
Growth perspective: Illustrate your progression and clarify what expansion looks like for your project. Present a bold, definitive strategy for the next phase of your initiative and how the YouthX network can aid in actualizing it.
Character & Presentation: Do you have images of your work? A prototype? A brief video explaining your concept? Include them. Visual elements enhance your narrative and make your entry unforgettable. Ensure that every aspect, from visuals to narrative, projects professionalism yet retains a personal touch. Judges are not solely investing in impactful ideas; they are also backing passionate individuals behind the submissions.
Attention to detail: Even minor aspects matter; thoroughly crafted submissions convey intent. Allocate time for proofreading prior to submission. This demonstrates your commitment.
‘This year, we aim to ensure that a greater number of young individuals feel recognized and empowered, particularly those who may be hesitant to put themselves forward,’ states Makgato. ‘Nedbank is committed to supporting your ambition and potential beyond mere words. With a funding opportunity of up to R200 000, alongside mentorship and nationwide visibility, we are assisting you in progressing with intention.’
Before clicking ‘Submit’, take a moment to review your entry from a judge’s viewpoint. Is it understandable? Is it assertive? Does it inspire confidence? If you had the means, would you choose to invest in this concept and in yourself? If your response is a resounding ‘Yes’, then you’re not just submitting your entry; you’re claiming your X.
If you’re prepared to take a chance, here’s what you need to bear in mind:https://www.instagram.com/p/DMxTqjGoznC/?hl=en
All submissions for the YouthX Awards powered by Nedbank will close on 31 August 2025. They are eligible for all South Africans between the ages of 18 to 26 with a qualifying Nedbank account.
To submit your application and to gather all necessary information to realize your vision, visit https://www.youthxbynedbank.co.za/potential/youthx/youthxawards.
Don’t just participate for the sake of it – join with full commitment. This is your opportunity to demonstrate to the nation what you are building, its significance, and the possibilities that arise when you #UnlockYourX.
