Welcome to South African Youth Awards

The South African Youth Awards (SAYA) 2024 celebrates the remarkable achievements of young South Africans who are making a significant impact across various fields. Hosted by the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), the awards honour individuals who demonstrate excellence in entrepreneurship, innovation, community leadership, arts and culture, environmental stewardship, and more.

These prestigious awards provide a platform to showcase the incredible contributions of young people, inspiring others to strive for greatness and fostering youth development throughout the country. Join us in recognising and celebrating the future leaders of South Africa.

PLEASE NOTE THAT ENTRIES ARE NOW CLOSED

For any questions or clarifications, please contact Gerinda Engelbrecht: sayouthawards2024@gmail.com

 

Young Entrepreneur of the Year

Recognises young entrepreneurs who have successfully started and scaled a business or social enterprise. This award is aimed at individuals who have demonstrated innovation, leadership, and business acumen, contributing to economic growth and job creation.

Young Professional of the Year

Celebrates young professionals such as but not limited to Chartered Accountants, Attorneys, Engineers, Doctors, and other skilled practitioners who have excelled in their fields. This award recognises outstanding contributions, leadership, and impact within their professional domains.

Young Changemaker of the Year

Honours young individuals who have made significant contributions to social change and community development. This award is aimed at those who have created or led initiatives that positively impact lives, address social challenges, and foster community resilience.

Young Innovator of the Year

Recognises young innovators who have developed groundbreaking solutions, technologies, or ideas that significantly impact their industry, community, or the broader society. This award celebrates creativity, problem-solving, and forward-thinking.

Young Arts & Cultural Champion

Celebrates young individuals who have made notable contributions to arts, culture, and heritage. This award recognises those who have used their talents to promote cultural awareness, creativity, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

Young Environmentalist of the Year

Highlights young leaders dedicated to environmental conservation, sustainability, a just energy transition and climate action. This award recognises individuals who have implemented effective strategies or projects to protect the environment and promote sustainable practices.

Young Scientist and Technologist

Honours young scientists and technologists who have made significant advancements in scientific research, technological innovation, or applied sciences. This award is for individuals whose work has contributed to knowledge expansion and technological progress.

Young Champion of Diversity and Inclusion

Recognises young individuals who have actively promoted diversity, equity, and inclusion within their communities or industries. This award celebrates those who have worked to dismantle barriers and foster inclusive environments for all.

Young Sports Achiever

Celebrates young sportspeople who have achieved excellence in sports, demonstrating exceptional skill, sportsmanship, and leadership. This award is for individuals who have inspired others through their dedication and achievements in sports and wellbeing.

Terms and Conditions of Entering

By entering the South African Youth Awards 2024, participants agree to the following terms and conditions:

Eligibility:

• The awards are open to all South African citizens aged between 18 and 35 years as of 31st December 2024.
• Participants must hold a valid South African ID document as proof of citizenship and eligibility.
• The awards are open to individuals and teams, but all participants must meet the eligibility requirements.

Submission of Entries:

• All entries must be submitted through the official South African Youth Awards website or other designated entry platforms by the specified closing date.
• Entrants must provide accurate and truthful information in their submission forms, including personal details, project descriptions, and supporting documents.
• Only complete entries will be considered. Incomplete or incorrect entries may be disqualified.

Categories:

Participants must select the category most suited to their achievements and contributions. The categories include:

• Young Entrepreneur of the Year
• Young Professional of the Year
• Young Change-maker of the Year
• Young Innovator of the Year
• Young Cultural Champion
• Young Environmentalist of the Year
• Young Scientist and Technologist
• Young Champion of Diversity and Inclusion
• Young Sports Achiever
• Presidential Award (no direct entry; awarded to one of the category finalists)

Judging Criteria:
Entries will be judged based on criteria specific to each category, including innovation, impact, leadership, and contribution to the community or industry.

The judges’ decisions are final, and no correspondence will be entered into regarding their decisions.

Judging will happen on 28 and 29 November 2024.

Disqualification:

• Entrants who provide false information or plagiarise work may be disqualified.
• Any form of misconduct, disrespect, or unprofessional behaviour towards other participants, organisers, or judges will result in immediate disqualification.

Use of Information:

• By entering, participants consent to the use of their submitted content (including project descriptions, photos, and videos) for promotional purposes by the South African Youth Awards and the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA).
• Participants may be required to attend events, interviews, or media engagements related to the awards.

Prizes and Recognition:

• Winners will receive trophies and/or certificates and may receive additional recognition through media features, events, or other platforms.
• Prizes, if applicable, are not transferable or exchangeable.

Confidentiality and Data Protection:

Personal information provided by participants will be used solely for the purpose of the awards and will be kept confidential, except for public announcements regarding winners and finalists.

Event and Award Ceremony:

The awards ceremony will take place on 30 November 2024. Finalists must be available to attend the event or participate virtually, as required.

Travel and accommodation for finalists may be arranged at the discretion of the organisers.

Changes to Terms and Conditions:
The organisers reserve the right to modify the terms and conditions of the awards at any time. Any changes will be communicated through official channels.

By submitting an entry, participants confirm they have read, understood, and agree to these terms and conditions.

For any questions or clarifications, please contact Gerinda Engelbrecht: sayouthawards2024@gmail.com