2026 Spelling A Business Africa (SABA) Tertiary Competitions Winners Showcase Business Potential Across Southern Africa

The 2026 Spelling A Business Africa (SABA) Tertiary Competitions delivered a strong display of talent, business thinking, and academic excellence among students from across Southern Africa. The event took place on 10 April 2026 and brought together participants from different universities who competed for both recognition and financial support to launch future enterprises. The competition continues to grow as a platform that rewards academic skill while also encouraging entrepreneurship among young people. This year’s edition stood out because of the significant prize money awarded to the top performers. It also highlighted how education and business development can work together to create real opportunities for students.

The biggest winner of the day was Reabetsoe Mapola from Botho University, who claimed first position and received a staggering M100,000.00. Her performance placed her at the top of a highly competitive field and secured her the ultimate prize designed to support business creation. In second place, Thabo Thamae from Limkokwing University of Creative Technology delivered a strong showing and walked away with M75,000.00. The third position went to Lisemelo Mphutlane from the National University of Lesotho, who earned M50,000.00 for her efforts. These top three positions reflected consistent excellence and demonstrated how students from different institutions are developing strong entrepreneurial and communication skills through the SABA platform.

Beyond the top three, the competition also rewarded other high-performing participants who showed strong potential. Bokang Mpholo secured fourth position and received M30,000.00 for a commendable performance that kept the competition intense until the final stages. Thato Letele finished in fifth position and walked away with M20,000.00 after also demonstrating solid understanding and competitive ability throughout the event. Each of these participants contributed to a tightly contested competition that showcased depth of talent across all levels. The spread of prizes ensured that more students benefited financially while also gaining motivation to continue developing business ideas.

The structure of the SABA Tertiary Competitions places strong emphasis on using prize money as seed capital for future business ventures. Winners are not only rewarded for academic and competitive success but are also given financial tools to start or grow their entrepreneurial projects. This approach encourages practical application of business knowledge gained in university environments. It also helps bridge the gap between academic achievement and real-world economic participation. For many participants, the competition serves as an entry point into long-term business development and financial independence.

The 2026 edition of the Spelling A Business Africa Tertiary Competitions reinforced its role as a meaningful platform for youth empowerment through education and entrepreneurship. The success of Reabetsoe Mapola, Thabo Thamae, and Lisemelo Mphutlane, along with other top performers, demonstrated the growing competitiveness of the event. With substantial prize money and increasing participation from regional universities, the competition continues to build a strong foundation for future business leaders. The event concluded with a clear message that academic excellence combined with entrepreneurial support can create real economic opportunities.