The TransUnion Rising Star Awards began over a decade ago, founded by Laura Barker of BlackBark Productions, as a national platform to recognise South African professionals under 40 who demonstrate leadership, vision, and social impact. From its modest beginnings, it has evolved into one of the most prestigious leadership recognitions in South Africa, spanning 12 key industries, including Banking & Financial Services, Media & Advertising, ICT, and Public Service.
“Each year, the standard of participants keeps getting higher, which gives us great hope for the future leadership of the institutions of this economy,” said Laura Barker, CEO at BlackBark Productions, organisers of the Rising Star Programme. “We are honoured to be able to play a part in identifying and boosting the career of these leaders, and therefore contribute to the continued economic prosperity of South Africa.”
In August 2022, TransUnion South Africa formally committed to headline sponsoring the Awards for a five‑year term, reinforcing its mission to invest in and elevate young African talent. Notably, CEO Lee Naik, himself a Rising Star winner in 2015, emphasised the importance of building a generation of role models poised to lead Africa’s growth.
“South Africa’s greatest untapped resource is the brilliance, resilience and boundless potential of its youth. At TransUnion, we believe that by investing in young professionals today, we are building the leaders who will shape a more inclusive, innovative and prosperous tomorrow. The Rising Star Awards are a celebration of that promise, and a call to action to all of us to nurture it,” said Lee Naik, CEO of TransUnion Africa.
Each annual cycle introduces a robust and transparent process: entrants submit detailed self-assessments, videos, and undergo rigorous multi-stage interviews. The judging panels comprise industry leaders, CEOs, HR executives, and past winners, representing the calibre of mentorship and scrutiny that has become a hallmark of the Awards.
Over the years, finalists and winners have spoken about the transformative effect of participation: from expanding professional networks and receiving insightful feedback to igniting deeper purpose and legacy-driven careers.
Proud Supporters of the TransUnion Rising Star Awards
The 14th Annual TransUnion Rising Star Awards are proudly supported by TransUnion, Absa, Sage, Accenture, Zutari, South African Airways, News24, Hollard and Workday.
As part of our exclusive partnership with SAA, corporate travel discounts are now available to members of the Rising Star network. Contact us directly to set up an introductory chat and find out how you can benefit.
Why It Matters
South Africa, with a youthful and dynamic demographic, faces pressing challenges—from inequality and youth unemployment to economic transformation. The Rising Star Awards serve as a critical accelerator, shining a light on individuals who embody transformational leadership potential. Winners become ambassadors for social change and professional excellence across sectors.
This is more than an awards programme, it’s a long‑term investment in a movement of young leaders committed to shaping a better South Africa.
Movement For Good
The Rising Star Movement for Good is a flagship initiative of BlackBark Productions to tackle the critical issue of food insecurity among tertiary students in South Africa. Studies show that up to 30% of university students face hunger, which hampers mental health, academic performance, and long-term potential. Through a combination of digital innovation, via the GradStar App, and collaborative partnerships with campus eateries and volunteer networks, the initiative enables donors to fund meals directly for needy students. Donations come with the optional opportunity for mentorship or ongoing support, fostering connections beyond a single act of giving. By enabling the BlackBark network to pay it forward, the Movement for Good not only fuels Rising Star’s ethos of leadership in action but also invests in South Africa’s talent pipeline, ensuring emerging leaders can thrive without hunger holding them back. Join the Movement and support a student now at www.movementforgood.org.za
Looking Ahead
Important Dates
- Finalist Webinar Announcement
8 August 2025
3pm
https://grey-giraffe.webinarninja.com/live-webinars/10696541/register?in_tok=6e549590-a3be-4723-85c3-7d4e359d7928 - Final Judging Week
2-4 September 2025 - TransUnion Rising Star Awards Gala Dinner
8 October 2025
Contact Details
For more details, entry criteria, mentorship programmes, and context around the 2025 cycle, visit the official TransUnion Rising Star Awards Website. To stay updated on the latest news, follow us on our social media
Social Media Handles
Instagram: RisingStar_SA
Facebook: RisingStarSA
LinkedIn: Rising Star South Africa
X (Twitter): RisingStarSA
For early and exclusive access to all TransUnion Rising Star Awards content, contact Ashleigh.
Ashleigh Jordan Cozett
BlackBark Productions
Tel: +27 21 065 1685
Cell: +27 64 901 6330
Email: ashleigh@blackbark.co.za
