Ntsako Rikhotso – A Business Pioneer with Heart and Hustle
Ntsako Rikhotso is not just a creative entrepreneur — he’s a storyteller, a visionary, and a real mover in his community. Running multiple businesses like Black Driver Films, The Next Rikhotso Generation Graphics, and a foundation supporting schools with donations, Ntsako uses his talents to uplift others and make an impact. What sets Ntsako apart is how he puts his heart into everything he does. He’s not about copying trends or following the crowd. He understands his roots deeply and creates with meaning and purpose. Whether designing posters, crafting logos, working on films, or managing social media, he’s always focused on inspiring people and giving back. His go-to quote that fuels his journey?“If only you knew where some of us came from, you wouldn’t wish us bad in life.”It’s a powerful reminder that every struggle builds strength, and that every step forward is part of a bigger purpose. Why vote for Ntsako?Because he’s real, hardworking, and committed not just to his own success, but to the growth of others around him. He stands up for young people who often go unheard, and with your vote, you’re supporting someone who never quits and keeps pushing for better, not just for himself but for the whole community.
Akanyang Lesola – Writing His Way Into Minds, One Page at a Time
Akanyang Lesola, known to many as AkanyangTheAuthor, is more than just a writer — he’s a movement in motion. Born and raised in Rustenburg, South Africa, Akanyang is a self-help author, entrepreneur, and advocate for mindset transformation who’s taken his personal journey and turned it into purpose for others. His debut book, “Respect The Tool: Unlocking The Power Of The Human Mindset,” is not just a title — it’s a call to action. A guide designed to help people tap into their inner power, build resilience, and believe in what they’re capable of, no matter where they come from. But what makes Akanyang different?He doesn’t just write about mindset — he lives it. He’s in the streets, in the townships, at taxi ranks and community halls — meeting people where they are and spreading his message face to face. There’s no barrier between him and the people he wants to uplift. It’s personal. It’s powerful. It’s real. His belief?“Your mind is your greatest tool — respect it, and it will take you places your feet never could.”That’s the heartbeat behind everything he does. It’s a daily reminder that we shape our own futures with how we think, speak, and believe. Nominated as a Literary Luminary, Akanyang isn’t chasing clout — he’s chasing impact. He wants to show young people that their dreams are valid, their voices matter, and their future is theirs to create. A vote for Akanyang Lesola is a vote for transformation, for resilience, and for the kind of leadership that begins in the mind and flows out into the world. He’s not just telling stories — he’s rewriting narratives.
Thabo James Mthembu – The Smile Keeper Changing the Game
Thabo James Mthembu, known to many as The Smile Keeper, isn’t just building a business — he’s building a movement. As the founder of ProphyDental, an oral hygiene brand with purpose, passion, and sustainability at its core, Thabo is pioneering a new way of doing business in South Africa and beyond. Through ProphyDental, he supplies eco-friendly and high-quality dental tools — from biodegradable floss picks to bamboo toothbrushes — all designed to protect the one thing we use every single day: our smile. But make no mistake, Thabo isn’t just selling toothbrushes. He’s selling access, innovation, pride, and a vision for the future of healthcare that’s both ethical and empowering. What makes him stand out?“I am the business.”Thabo brings the same fire to every order that others bring to their biggest pitch. He’s built his brand from the ground up with no handouts — just vision, heart, and an unshakable commitment to doing things right. From rain-soaked deliveries to late-night order runs, he shows up every time. And it’s that consistency, that realness, that sets him apart. His motto?“My only motto in life is: don’t lose.” – Nicki Minaj.And he lives that line like scripture. For Thabo, losses become lessons. Hustle is holy. And staying true to your purpose — even when the odds are ugly — is non-negotiable. Nominated across three major categories — Business Pioneer, Beauty Innovation, and Future Leader — Thabo represents a new kind of entrepreneur: one who leads with impact, who builds with both grit and grace, and who puts his whole heart into everything he touches. A vote for Thabo is a vote for innovation, integrity, and inspiration. He’s not pretending. He’s doing the work — and doing it beautifully.
Mabu Molefi – Building Communities, Elevating Voices
Mabu Molefi is a name that carries weight in the world of community development, education, and advocacy. With over 20 years in the education sector and an additional 5 years as a dedicated community builder, Mabu’s journey is marked by service, strategy, and soul. She’s not just committed to inclusion — she’s built her life’s work around it. A graduate of Oxford Business College in the UK, Mabu is a powerhouse who balances her professional qualifications with real-world impact. From serving as SGB QLTC Chairperson at HTS, to founding both the Ruth-K Foundation and Thitokgang Media Production, her leadership reaches across platforms and people. Mabu’s story is also one of public service and visibility. As a former North West Curvy Queens Ambassador (2019–2020) and a current public servant in the Department of Education in North West, she embodies the intersection of representation and action. Her strengths lie in stakeholder engagement, project coordination, and event management — but her real gift is connecting people to purpose. Her guiding belief is gentle but powerful:“Do things at your own pace. Life is not a race.”It’s a reminder that progress is personal, and purpose-driven work takes time — and heart. And through it all, she moves with deep trust in God’s guidance, grounded in faith and vision. Nominated as a Diversity and Inclusion Advocate, Mabu’s mission is rooted in uplifting African children through education, creating spaces for growth, and ensuring that no one is left behind. A vote for Mabu Molefi is a vote for progress, inclusion, and the kind of leadership that plants seeds today for a stronger, more united tomorrow.
Professor Leepile Alfred Sehularo – Advancing Mental Health With Purpose and Impact
Professor Leepile Alfred Sehularo is a name that carries weight, not just through titles, but through the transformational work he’s done in mental health. Currently serving as a Full Professor of Mental Health Nursing and Director of the Lifestyle Diseases Research Entity at North-West University (Mahikeng Campus), Prof. Sehularo is deeply committed to improving lives through knowledge, research, and action. His qualifications speak for themselves — PhD, MNSc, BNSc, diplomas in Health Science Education, Health Services Management, and Labour Law — but what truly sets him apart is his impact beyond the classroom. He has trained and mentored 10 PhD and 19 Master’s students across countries like Ghana, Nigeria, Botswana, and Pakistan, shaping the future of mental health care globally. Prof. Sehularo’s belief, “Motho ke Motho ka Batho” (A person is a person because of other people), reflects the heart behind everything he does. It’s about service. It’s about connection. And it’s about using his platform to elevate not just knowledge, but humanity. Nominated in the Positive Mental Health category, his work extends far beyond academia. With nearly 100 published research articles, 2 book chapters, and international presentations, his contributions to mental health are both deep and wide-reaching. He’s served on key mental health boards in the North West Province and continues to advocate for better care, understanding, and support for those facing mental health challenges. A vote for Professor Sehularo is a vote for lived experience, academic excellence, and a lifelong commitment to building a mentally healthier society. His legacy is already strong — and your vote keeps that impact growing.
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.