Inside Education Reporter
The 100 South African Shining Stars Awards, an initiative by Inside Education since 2018, has become an inspiring fixture on the national calendar, highlighting young trailblazers aged 18 – 35 who are reshaping communities across the country.
On Thursday, 19 February 2025, the 9th Annual ceremony unfolded at The Garden Venue in Randburg, Johannesburg, transforming the space into a constellation of ambition, resilience, and hope.
This year’s theme, The Power of Youth in Action, was more than a slogan. It was a call to action, echoing the legacies of Nelson Mandela and Solomon Mahlangu, urging South Africa’s youth to confront unemployment, inequality, and social fragmentation with courage and creativity.
Matuma Letsoalo, Chairperson of the Inside Education Foundation, anchored the evening with gravitas.
The ceremony’s energy was amplified by Amahle-Imvelo Jaxa, whose charisma as MC blended youthful flair with sharp advocacy.
The highlight came when Mashudu Ravele, author and activist, challenged winners to transform recognition into decisive community action.
