WSU STUDENTS SWEEP TOP HONOURS AT REGIONAL YOUTH DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL IN BOTSWANA

Five Walter Sisulu University (WSU) students have emerged as standout young leaders after clinching top accolades at the Southern African Youth Development Council (SAYDC), held in Botswana from 27–30 June 2025.

Themed under: Youth Inclusion in Innovation and Entrepreneurship to Unlock Opportunities for Sustainable Economic Growth and Development Towards an Industrialised SADC: Youth Agenda 2055, brought together future changemakers from across the SADC region and beyond, with a focus on entrepreneurship and innovation.

The five students, selected as part of a delegation of 11 Entrepreneurship Student Ambassadors and SWEEP members, were honoured in various categories for their excellence in leadership, communication, innovation, and cultural representation—placing WSU firmly on the continental map.

Among the standout achievements, one of the most celebrated wins was the Best Country Representation award, which was claimed with passion and purpose.

Anathi Mbhekelwa, who received the award described his win as deeply personal and symbolic.

“Being part of the SAYDC competition has been one of the most meaningful experiences in my journey. It reminded me why I do the work I do, and how powerful our voices can be when we show up with purpose,” he said.

Equally inspiring was Sinawo Siqebengu who won the first-place  for Position Paper, recognising outstanding policy thinking and innovation.

“Winning first place has validated both my voice and my vision as a young African entrepreneur,” she said.

Her work, which intersects policy and enterprise, aligns closely with regional development strategies such as Agenda 2063 and Vision 2050.

Another key winner, Frederick Kampho Mashaba, was recognised with the Best Position Paper award.

Mashaba praised the conference’s format for encouraging practical dialogue around youth challenges and smart mobility solutions.

“Participation has given me an opportunity to build networks across the subcontinent. Engaging with studentpreneurs and agripreneurs has enhanced my understanding of how to develop ways to teach and encourage entrepreneurship,” Mashaba said.

In the oral presentation category, Asiphe Cekiso took top honours for her clarity, engagement, and confidence.

“Winning the Best Oral Presentation Award reminded me that entrepreneurship isn’t just about ideas, it’s about how well you can connect your ideas to people, problems, and solutions,” she shared.

The cultural stage was also owned with grace and pride as Ncedo Ntsabo earned the Best Cultural Representation award.

“SAYDC is more than just a platform—it is a collective movement of young leaders shaping the future of the region through innovation, collaboration, and purpose-driven enterprise,” he said.

Ntsabo praised the platform for its role in fostering mentorship, funding opportunities, and cross-border partnerships that support the expansion of youth-led ventures.

The university has celebrated the group’s success as a reflection of WSU’s growing impact in regional development and entrepreneurship. The five student winners have not only represented South Africa with pride but have demonstrated the calibre of leadership emerging from WSU’s ranks.

By: Yolanda Palezweni