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Empowering the Future: Meet the WOTY Next Generation Nominees

Building on the triumph of last year's unforgettable event, the GLAMOUR Women of the Year Awards: The Game Changers edition returns this November to celebrate the most inspiring and trailblazing women in South Africa. This prestigious ceremony is a testament to the power and resilience of women who drive change, break boundaries, and shatter glass ceilings.

For one extraordinary night, we gather to honour the achievements of women who embody the spirit of courage, determination, and innovation. From entrepreneurs and activists to artists and thought leaders, our nominees are the game-changers who are redefining the status quo and paving the way for future generations.

We are thrilled to announce the nominees for our Next Generation Awards. This category recognizes and celebrates young women who are already making waves in their respective fields and a lasting impact.

The Next Gen Award is now open for public voting, and we invite our valued golden readers to cast their votes and choose the winner. Your voice matters, and your vote will help us recognize and reward the most exceptional talent among our nominees.

Meet our incredible nominees:

Zandile Ndhlovu

Zandile Ndhlovu, aka the Black Mermaid, is a South African freediver, scuba diving instructor, and conservationist. Born in Soweto, she discovered her passion for the ocean in Bali and became SA's first black female diving instructor. She founded the Black Mermaid Foundation to promote ocean conservation, education, and empowerment among underprivileged communities. As part of her mission to raise awareness about ocean conservation, Ndhlovu authored a captivating children's book titled "Zandi's Song", sparking important conversations about the risks facing our ocean. Zandile's work extends far beyond the confines of the ocean. As a consultant, she specialized in equality, diversity, and inclusion, equipping her with the skills to drive positive change in her community.

Nompumelelo Nkosi

Nompumelelo Nkosi is a self-taught culinary artist and entrepreneur. With no formal training, she developed her unique cooking style through experimentation and passion. Nkosi celebrates African cuisine, blending traditional flavours with modern twists. She's a respected figure in the culinary world, inspiring young cooks and collaborating with top chefs. Her mission is to preserve and promote African food culture, empowering women and youth in the process.

Zethu Gqola

Zethu Gqola is a renowned marketing strategist and industry leader . With a career spanning over a decade, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the country's creative landscape.As a seasoned professional, Gqola has worked with top artists, record labels, and music festivals, driving innovation and growth in the industry. Zethu’s marketing expertise has been instrumental in the success of several high-profile projects, including, Bongeziwe Mabandla's award-winning album "Amaxesha" (Metro FM Award). Marketing strategist for Msaki, Sun-El Musician, Moonga K, and Da Capo, among others

Gqola's commitment to empowering women and marginalized communities in the creative space has earned her recognition and respect. She is a vocal advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, using her platform to amplify underrepresented voices.

Sibu Mabena

Sibu Mabena is a visionary entrepreneur and founder of Duma Collective, a groundbreaking marketing agency showcasing African fashion, art, and culture. With a passion for creative storytelling and community building, Mabena has established herself as a leading voice in the African creative industry.

Under her leadership, Duma Collective has become a hub for innovative collaborations, fostering connections between artists, designers, and thought leaders. She's worked with multinational brands and events like Casper's Fill Up Series, The SAMAs, and Global Citizen. Sibu's impact has earned her numerous accolades including the Inverroche Future Is Female Award, and a sit as a board member for Effie Awards, Creative Circle, and Gauteng Department of Sports Arts and Culture.

Who would you like to see win this year's #WOTY2024 Next Gen Award?

Click to vote for your favourite personality.

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