WELCOME TO WOOLWORTHS YOUTH MAKERS
Woolworths Youth Makers is a competition created in partnership with our Inclusive Justice Initiative, aimed at
uplifting and empowering young South African entrepreneurs. Through this competition we support small business growth,
and help the next generation take bold steps on their business journey.
After the incredible success of last year’s competition, we’re doing it again. Our mission remains the same:
to discover South Africa’s most promising young entrepreneurs and give them the tools to take their businesses to new heights.
In 2023, we received inspiring entries from across the country. From the pool, 30 standout businesses pitched their ideas
to a panel of expert judges. Fifteen winners were selected and received hands-on mentoring, funding, and access to over 90 years
of Woolworths retail know-how.
Now, it’s your turn. If you’re aged 18–35 and ready to grow your business with real retail experience and support,
this is the opportunity for you.
Applications are open. Let’s build the future of local business.
INCLUSIVE JUSTICE INITIATIVE
Our Youth Makers competition forms part of the Woolies Inclusive Justice Initiative; a commitment to inspire inclusive growth by taking action against discrimination and marginalisation, and promoting inclusion and empowerment of all. The youth hold the key to South Africa’s future, and we're proud to be empowering young entrepreneurs.
THE YOUTH MAKERS OF 2024
The 15 winners of the 2024 Youth Makers Competition were selected for their standout presentations to a panel of expert judges.
Each entrepreneur had just 20 minutes to bring their business ideas to life — and they delivered.
The judges were looking for authenticity, quality, sustainability, and business viability, and they were truly blown away by the passion,
creativity, and innovation on display.
Meet our 2024 winners and click to read their stories: