MBOMBELA, SOUTH AFRICA – The Mordecai Ndlovu Foundation (MNF), in proud partnership with Mzansi Mail, is thrilled to announce the official public launch of the uYiNdlovu Community Builder Awards 2026. Starting today, Thursday, 5 March 2026, we are calling on all community members to nominate the unsung heroes who are driving progress and unity across our region.
2026 Theme: “Building Together”
This year’s awards are centered on the powerful theme: “Building Together: Women, Youth & Creative Enterprise for Community Growth”. The 2026 program specifically aims to celebrate those shaping sustainable communities through entrepreneurship, cooperatives, creative industries, and grassroots leadership.
We believe in the power of collective effort and innovation to build resilient local economies. If you know a woman or a young person (aged 18-35) who is making a tangible difference, we want to hear their story.
Award Categories
We are accepting nominations across 10 distinct categories, highlighting the diverse ways individuals and organizations contribute to society:
● Women Entrepreneur of the Year: For women building job-creating businesses.
● Youth Entrepreneur of the Year: For innovators aged 18-35 driving economic growth.
● Outstanding Women-Led Cooperative: Celebrating shared ownership and sustainability.
● Youth-Driven Cooperative of the Year: Recognizing local economic development impact.
● Creative Artist for Community Impact: For artists (music, film, fashion, etc.) inspiring social cohesion.
● Emerging Youth Creative Award: For young talent telling community stories and creating opportunities.
● Women in Community Leadership Award: For those leading through advocacy and mentoring.
● Youth Community Builder Award: For young changemakers solving local challenges.
● Social Enterprise of the Year: For businesses balancing profit with community upliftment.
● uYiNdlovu Legacy Community Builder Award: Special recognition for long-standing, transformative impact.
Important Dates & How to Nominate
The nomination period is now open and will run until Thursday, 30 April 2026.
Nomination Deadline: 30 April 2026
Throughout March and April, the Mordecai Ndlovu Foundation and Mzansi Mail will be conducting community outreach and activations to help you submit your nominations. We encourage targeted outreach to cooperatives, entrepreneurs, and creatives who are often the backbone of our community growth.
Nomination Link: https://forms.gle/gzBr8QXEncEFafvBA
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