21 November @ 8:00 am – 11:00 pm
In a world where talent alone doesn’t always open doors, YouthX Lives by Nedbank is challenging young South Africans to think differently about networking, personal branding and turning their ideas into real opportunities.
For many young people, having a great business idea is only the beginning. Access to mentors, industry knowledge and the right connections can make the difference between an idea that stays on paper and one that becomes a sustainable business.
That’s the conversation Nedbank’s YouthX Lives masterclasses have been bringing to university campuses, giving students practical insights into entrepreneurship, personal growth and building relationships that can move their ambitions forward.
Get Your People: Success Is a Team Effort
At the University of Johannesburg (UJ), students explored the power of meaningful relationships during a session moderated by content creator, entrepreneur and presenter Amahle-Imvelo Jaxa, popularly known as Jaxx Amahle.
Under the theme “Get Your People,” the discussion featured Tamia Nontsikelelo Mokoena, founder of Tol’thema; Ntokozo “Melo” Ntleko, founder of Takkie Wash SA; and Luvuyo Mthimkulu, Nedbank’s Senior Marketing Manager for Brand Strategy.
Drawing from their own experiences, the speakers unpacked the realities of building businesses, navigating challenges and recognising the value of having the right people in your corner.
The message went beyond collecting contacts or knowing influential people. Building a meaningful network starts with genuine relationships, shared knowledge and a willingness to create opportunities for others.
For young South Africans navigating a competitive job market and an evolving entrepreneurial landscape, that mindset offers a practical starting point: build relationships before you need them, learn from people who have walked the road before you, and look for ways to contribute to your community.
Get Your Name, Get Your Edge
The conversation continued at the University of Limpopo, where YouthX Lives expanded the discussion through the theme “Get Your People + Get Your Idea”.
Moderated by Miss South Africa 2022, model and investment professional Ndavi Nokeri, the session featured Mpho Jasone, Nedbank Sponsorship Manager for Football and Youth; Tshepo Mohlala, founder of Tshepo Jeans; and Tamia Nontsikelelo Mokoena of Tol’thema.
The speakers explored three key principles: Get Your People, Get Your Name and Get Your Edge.
Jasone highlighted the role of relationships and community in opening doors. Mohlala challenged students to consider their personal brands and what they want to be known for, while Mokoena focused on developing the skills, knowledge and mindset needed to recognise and act on opportunities.
Together, these ideas offered a reminder that building a career or business requires more than ambition. Young people must also understand their value, communicate their strengths and keep developing the skills that set them apart.
Beyond Motivation: Giving Young People Real Access
One of the most significant elements of the initiative was its focus on practical exposure.
Through Nedbank’s “Giving the Youth the Keys” initiative, selected students had opportunities to engage directly with entrepreneurs. Two students were also selected for job-shadowing experiences with Tshepo Mohlala of Tshepo Jeans and Tamia Nontsikelelo Mokoena of Tol’thema.
These experiences offer something that a motivational talk alone cannot: a closer look at the decisions, daily responsibilities and challenges involved in running a business.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, seeing how established founders operate can help bridge the gap between classroom theory and the realities of the working world.
The sessions concluded with entertainment, student prizes and opportunities to connect with the speakers, leaving attendees with ideas to consider and relationships that could develop beyond the university setting.
YX26 Is Coming to Constitution Hill
The YouthX conversation now builds towards YX26, taking place at Constitution Hill on 21 November 2026.
For young South Africans interested in entrepreneurship, creativity, networking and personal development, the event offers another opportunity to engage with the wider YouthX platform.
The bigger question is what happens after the masterclasses and events end. Turning inspiration into progress means applying what has been learned, following up with people, sharpening practical skills and taking the first steps towards an idea.
Because access matters, but what you do with that access matters just as much.
