The latest edition of the Forbes Africa 30 Under 50 list highlights South Africans whose careers translate into visible industry impact. This year’s selections show how influence is increasingly tied to real industry contribution. Across finance, entertainment, sport, technology and entrepreneurship, the South Africans recognised are building institutions, exporting culture and reshaping key sectors.

Celeste Ntuli – Instagram

The list spans a wide spread of industries. FIFA and CAF referee Akhona Makalima reflects growing recognition of officiating as a professional discipline with continental reach. In comedy and performance, Celeste Ntuli continues to expand audiences for African stand-up, turning live performance into a scalable entertainment business.
Entrepreneurial leadership is another defining feature of the list. Dermatologist and founder Lungile Mhlongo has built a wellness company rooted in clinical expertise and consumer demand. In corporate finance, Mary Vilakazi represents senior institutional leadership within one of the country’s largest banking structures, influencing strategy, governance and capital direction.

Akhona Makalima – Instagram

Cultural export remains central to South Africa’s global presence. DJ and producer DBN Gogo has helped push Amapiano into international markets through touring, branding and collaboration. Singer and performer Zolani Mahola combines artistic work with public advocacy, reinforcing the social role of cultural figures. Actor Lesley-Ann Brandt maintains an international screen career while staying connected to South African creative identity.
Technology adds another layer to the country’s representation. AI entrepreneur Pelonomi Moiloa is developing language-focused systems designed for African data environments, contributing to locally built digital infrastructure.

DBN Gogo – Instagram

Together, these honourees show how South African leadership is increasingly tied to institution building, cultural export and sector development. Their work extends beyond personal recognition into ecosystems that support employment, innovation and creative ownership.
This year’s South African presence on the 30 Under 50 list reflects a shift toward careers built around long-term platforms rather than short-term visibility. The figures recognised are active participants in shaping the industries they occupy, setting practical benchmarks for the next generation of leaders.

Valentine’s Day is about celebrating the people who matter most in your life. Love comes in many forms, from the laughter shared with friends to the support of family, and even self-love you show yourself. The best gifts are thoughtful. This coming Valentine’s Day, you can make your loved ones feel special by sharing meaningful gifts.

Gifts for Romantic Partners

Valentine Gift : Amazon

For romantic partners, the best gifts are those that show shared experiences. Planning a day around your partner’s interests, such as exploring a new location, cooking a meal together, buying a collection of photos or attending a class together if works well.

Gifts for Friends 

Valentine Gifts : Getty Images

Gifts for friends should be something special. For some friends, books are fine, for others it’s a video game. Whatever you get them, including a personal note, turns even a small item into a meaningful gesture that deepens your bond.

Read also : The Real Reasons Some Avoid Commitment in Love

Gifts for Family Members

Valentine Gifts: Getty Images

Family gifts carry emotional significance because of shared history and understanding. Older family members can be celebrated with gifts that honor your connection. For younger family members, gifts that promote creativity are ideal. Thoughtful family gifts show appreciation and strengthen your bond.

Honoring Yourself 

Valentine Shoes : Amazon

Valentine’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate yourself. While giving gifts to others is important, Valentine’s Day is also a chance to celebrate yourself. Treating yourself can boost your well-being and help you approach other relationships with clarity. You can buy shoes, watches and shirts.

As Valentine’s Day draws nearer, look out for that bargain gifts. The price or quality do not matter; what matters is what it means to them.

Thandiswa Mazwai has announced the launch of the Sankofa Heritage Fest. This cultural festival is set to take place on 28 February 2026 at Carnival City in Johannesburg.

Mazwai’s career spans three decades. She became an instant hit in the late 1990s with the influential kwaito and Afro‑urban collective Bongo Maffin. She then established herself as a solo artist.

Thandiswa Mazwai: Instagram

Thandiswa Mazwai who recently won 4 SAMA Awards for Sankofa is very popular among South America African music enthusiasts. This event will bring in Somi and South African singer songwriter Msaki, both showing their African heritage and lyrical skills. Their participation shows the festival’s commitment to presenting influential figures in the industry.

Read also: Mtanga as a Pink Butterfly, Unmissable

In addition to its performances, the Sankofa Heritage Fest includes a competition for emerging traditional musicians, bands, and groups. This offers them the opportunity to open the festival and reach a wider audience. Encouraging new talents is Mazwai’s fostering community empowerment.

Thandiswa Mazwai: Instagram

The festival is supported by the Department of Sports Arts and Culture’s Mzansi Golden Economy Initiative. This will help promote South African cultural heritage and tradition.

Her album Sankofa has received multiple awards, highlighting her impact on the music scene. The themes of the album aligns with the festival’s objective. Thandiswa other songs like Ndiilinde, Umlenze and Pfuma have put her the global map.