Marshal Nkala – Living the Spirit of Karate, One Video at a Time
Marshal Nkala, based in Pretoria, isn’t just creating content — he’s living and breathing karate with every frame he shares. As a passionate sports content creator, his focus is on the martial art he loves — breaking down kicks, kata, and kumite into tutorials that reach, teach, and inspire. But what makes Marshal stand out isn’t just his skill in front of the camera — it’s the mission behind it. He’s on a journey to promote all karate styles, shine a spotlight on African Karatekas, and help local martial arts gain the global recognition it deserves. His platform is not about showing off — it’s about lifting up a community. And with every video, there’s purpose.“Someone out there needs motivation. Someone out there is one video away from not giving up.”That’s the belief that drives him. Whether it’s a short clip or a full tutorial, Marshal sees his work as a lifeline — a reason for someone to keep going. Nominated in the Inspirational Influencer category, Marshal carries more than his own dream — he carries the spirit of karate and the untold stories of athletes who don’t always get the spotlight. “If my journey has inspired you, vote for me. Let’s show the world the true spirit of karate — OSU!” This isn’t just a vote for a creator. It’s a vote for passion, perseverance, and the powerful message that African martial arts matter.
Thabo Malapile – Leading With Heart, Even at 16
At just 16 years old, Malapile Thabo is already stepping into the kind of leadership many spend years growing into. Based in Polokwane, Thabo is a changemaker, brand ambassador, and youth leader who’s not only passionate about empowering young people — he’s out there doing it. From connecting youth to real opportunities, to supporting orphanage homes and helping upcoming models and dancers find their voice, Thabo is creating space for others to rise. He’s also building bridges between young people and brands, using his platform to make sure the voices of the youth are heard and represented where it matters. What makes him different? He doesn’t wait for recognition.“I don’t just speak — I move,” he says. And it shows. Thabo turns ideas into action, often with limited resources, and always with purpose. His mission is bigger than himself — it’s about pulling others into the light too. The belief that grounds him?“The Lord will make you the head and not the tail. You will always be at the top, never at the bottom.”That’s not just scripture to him — it’s fuel. It’s what reminds him of the purpose planted within, even in moments of doubt. Nominated in the Future Leader category, Thabo represents every young person with a dream but no platform. Every vote cast in his name isn’t just for his efforts — it’s for youth empowerment, real-time impact, and the kind of leadership that starts early, grows strong, and lifts others along the way. If you’re voting for someone who’s not waiting to make change, but already living it — Thabo Malapile is your leader.
Intwana yoMcako – A Sound of Substance and Soul
Intwana yoMcako is more than just a name in the music scene — they’re a multifaceted artist, equally gifted in music production and vocal performance. With a growing presence in the creative space, their sound adds richness to South Africa’s ever-evolving music landscape. What sets Intwana yoMcako apart is their ability to understand, shape, and refine a unique sound, while still creating space to collaborate meaningfully with others. There’s intention in the way they work — always chasing quality, always elevating the art. Grounded in humility and purpose, they live by a simple but powerful belief:“Ophansi akawi.”It’s a reminder to stay rooted, no matter how high you rise — to uplift others as you grow, and to never forget where you come from. Their dedication to music is clear. Behind the beats and vocals is someone who puts in the hours, pushes the standard, and brings something fresh with every move. Recognition for that kind of consistency and craft is more than deserved — it’s a way to acknowledge a journey marked by talent, discipline, and vision. Nominated in the Music Producer category, Intwana yoMcako represents what it means to work with heart, elevate the culture, and build something that lasts. A vote here isn’t just for a sound — it’s for a movement grounded in authenticity.
CJB Jnr – Producing With Purpose and Precision
CJB Jnr, also known as Paul Nhlapo, is not just a music producer — he’s a focused creative force who doesn’t stop until the vision is fully brought to life. With a brand-new EP dropping on all streaming platforms on the 11th, CJB is making serious moves, and the momentum around his work is building fast. His commitment to his craft runs deep. Whether it’s jumping on radio interviews or prepping for his upcoming appearance on Soweto TV, he’s showing up, staying visible, and putting in the kind of work that speaks for itself. Scroll through his socials, and you’ll see the proof — this is someone who is backing his talent with real effort. CJB lives by a belief that shapes everything he does:“Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve.”That mindset shows up in the consistency of his grind and the sharp focus behind every project he touches. He’s nominated in the Music Producer category, and for good reason. His work ethic, dedication, and desire to inspire others through what he creates all speak volumes. A vote for CJB Jnr isn’t just about beats and production — it’s about honouring someone who is committed to making a real impact in the music space. The recognition would only push him further — and with the momentum he’s already building, there’s no doubt more greatness is on the way.
Omo Phola – Hustling With Purpose, Leading With Vision
Phillip Oshoageme Orgiator Damisa, known to many as Omo Phola, is a name that carries both rhythm and resilience. Nigerian-born and now based in South Africa, Omo Phola is a musician, entrepreneur, and the CEO of Boiphillbaby Records — a business he’s been actively running for over six years. But music is just one layer. Behind the artist is a sharp businessman who co-owns several ventures and continues to build a presence that blends hustle, creativity, and ownership. Omo isn’t waiting for opportunities — he’s out here creating them. He believes in pushing through even when the path isn’t clear.“The ability to scan through in the midst of unpredictable and unforeseen circumstances,” he says, is what keeps him going. For him, it’s not about knocking on doors — it’s about pushing them open. His mantra is simple but powerful:“Let fear be your ability to stand out in any given situation.” As a nominee for the Business Pioneer category, Omo Phola represents boldness. He stands for those building brick by brick, showing that entrepreneurship isn’t always clean or predictable — but it’s always worth it. If you’re voting for someone who’s building while creating space for others to rise, Omo Phola is your guy.
Boitumelo Makgoba – Building a Future That Includes Everyone
Boitumelo Makgoba isn’t just leading — she’s redefining what it means to lead with purpose. As the CEO of Fetsi Data Technologies, she’s at the forefront of creating inclusive, ethical, and locally relevant AI solutions that are designed not just to innovate, but to serve people, especially those too often left out of the digital conversation. Her work focuses on breaking down digital barriers, particularly for people living with disabilities and underserved communities. Whether it’s access, dignity, or opportunity — Boitumelo is making sure tech isn’t just about machines, but about humans. What makes her stand out? It’s her mindset.“I build technology to solve human problems, restore dignity, and give people the tools to shape their own future.”That kind of heart-centered innovation is rare — and it’s exactly what makes her a future leader. Boitumelo lives by a powerful belief:“I am the alchemist, turning pain into power.”It’s this ability to transform struggle into impact that drives her every day. As a nominee for the Future Leader award, Boitumelo represents more than herself. She represents the kind of leadership that leaves a mark — not just for now, but for generations to come. A vote for Boitumelo is a vote for a future where technology empowers, includes, and uplifts. It’s a vote for impact that goes beyond innovation — into true transformation.
Cinga Dyala – Building Dreams Through Art and Purpose
Cinga Dyala is more than just a business mind — she’s a visionary. Hailing from Ndevana Location in the Eastern Cape, Cinga is a published author, poet, storyteller, literacy coach, child development practitioner, and founder of The World of Art Movement — a company that exists not just to create, but to transform lives through the arts. What makes Cinga stand out is her deep passion for the arts and child development. She’s not just working in the space — she’s fighting for it. Her advocacy for creativity as a valid and powerful career path has opened doors for many young people, helping them see their worth and believe in their potential. “My dreams are valid and my background doesn’t determine my future.”That’s not just a quote — it’s how Cinga lives. Her work is proof that creativity, when nurtured, can become a powerful force for social change. Nominated in the Business Pioneer category, Cinga’s story isn’t just about her own journey. It’s about every black child who has been told their dreams are too big or unrealistic. She represents those whose talents were overlooked simply because of where they come from. “By voting for me, you’re validating the dream of every child who’s ever felt unseen,” she says. A vote for Cinga is a vote for art, for purpose, and for building a future where black creativity is no longer the exception — it’s the blueprint.
Bongani Ntuli – Turning Pain into Purpose
Bongani Ntuli doesn’t just talk about inclusion — he lives it. An award-winning author, keynote speaker, and unapologetic disability inclusion advocate, Bongani is a voice for those who’ve been pushed to the margins. Through his company, Ntuli Limitless Services, he offers motivational speaking, diversity consulting, book writing coaching, and disability awareness training. What makes Bongani stand out isn’t just his credentials — it’s his lived experience. As a paraplegic, he’s taken the very challenges that could’ve held him back and turned them into the foundation of his purpose. “Your current situation is not your final destination.”That’s the belief that drives him. Faith, resilience, and vision — that’s the ground he walks on. When Bongani speaks about inclusion, he’s not preaching theory — he’s speaking from experience, for the overlooked, the underestimated, and the underrepresented. He reminds us that real inclusion isn’t just about access — it’s about belonging. Nominated in the Diversity & Inclusion Advocate category, Bongani carries more than just his own story — he carries the voices of many. Voting for him isn’t just about recognising his work. It’s about saying yes to change, to visibility, and to the kind of leadership that doesn’t wait for permission. If you believe in a world where everyone deserves a seat at the table — no matter their ability — then Bongani is the one to vote for.
Leepearl – Using Her Voice to Uplift and Empower
Phelokazi Leepearl Mdashe isn’t just a name on a nomination list — she’s a force for change, quietly doing the work that many talk about. Born in Engcobo, a small village in the Eastern Cape, she’s only 25 but already walking in her purpose as a musician, actor, and community builder. By day, she works as an administrator at Tyekana Protection, but her heart beats in her foundation, Save A Girl Child, where she donates sanitary towels and school shoes to learners in rural communities. It’s real, tangible support — not just talk. As a musician and influencer, Leepearl uses her platform to touch lives, empower through education, and promote a message that many need to hear:“Believe in yourself, uplift your community, and remember — the smallest actions can spark the greatest changes.” That belief is what drives her. It’s about passion, kindness, and making sure that her voice inspires more than just likes — it inspires action. Leepearl is nominated in the Inspirational Influencer category, and her story is about more than recognition. It’s about representing those who don’t always get seen. It’s about reminding others that you don’t need to be rich or famous to give back — just willing. If you’re voting for passion, impact, and someone who leads from the heart, then Leepearl is your nominee.
Nqobile Mhlongo – Making Education More Than Just Books
Nqobile Mhlongo is one of those people who remind us what real impact looks like. A young and enthusiastic educator, she’s not just about chalkboards and textbooks — she’s about building real relationships with her learners, creating an environment where learning becomes something to enjoy, not just endure. What sets Nqobile apart is how she connects. She understands that children are not the same, and because of that, she adapts her teaching methods to reach each one differently. It’s not a one-size-fits-all classroom for her — it’s personal, intentional, and full of care. When asked what keeps her going, Nqobile shared a belief that sits deep in her spirit:“Unkulunkulu akawadli amandla omuntu.”It’s a reminder that no matter what she faces, God will always give her the strength to keep going. But teaching isn’t where it ends for her. Nqobile is also passionate about giving back. She donates school uniforms, sanitary products, and food parcels to learners and families in need. It’s clear that for her, it’s not just about shaping minds — it’s about lifting communities. “A person is a person because of people,” she says — and she truly lives that out. Nqobile is nominated in the Inspirational Influencer category — and if you believe in people who serve with heart, teach with purpose, and give with no expectation, then she’s got your vote.