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By Levy Masiteng
TVET college students walked away with more than R180,000 in cash prizes at the Allan Gray Makers Competition and South African National Artisan Awards (SANAA), a celebration of innovation and entrepreneurship held this week at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre in Boksburg.
Hosted by Allan Gray Makers in partnership with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), the event recognised and celebrated the contributions of artisans across diverse fields of craftsmanship in South Africa.
The winners included Oratile Sibanyoni from Tshwane North TVET College, who won the Business Idea category and walked away with R50,000.
Rashaad Sambaba from False Bay TVET College won the General Business category and was also crowned Overall Winner of the Year, earning R30,000 for the category and an additional R50,000 from the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA).
Siphokuhle Mcotshana from the College of Cape Town placed second, receiving R30,000 plus another R50,000 from the NYDA.
The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) noted that this year’s SANAA theme was “Changing Artisanal Identity and Status.”
“These awards highlight the skills, creativity, and cultural significance of artisans who excel in traditional crafts such as welding, motor mechanics, carpentry, and other high-demand trades,” the DHET said in a post.
The celebration was attended by Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela and Deputy Director-General for TVET Colleges, Sam Zungu.
Manamela stressed the central role of artisans in the economy.
“Artisans are the backbone of our nation. They are the electricians who power our homes and industries, the mechanics who keep our economy moving, the plumbers who protect public health, and the welders and millwrights who build the infrastructure of tomorrow. As we transition to a green economy, artisans are not a luxury but a necessity,” he said.
He added that SANAA should not just be an event, but a movement that celebrates excellence, nurtures talent, and affirms the dignity of work.
“Because when we invest in artisans, we invest in the soul of our nation.”
Zungu echoed this, praising artisans as vital to the economy and communities.
“We are here to proudly declare that artisans matter to our economy, our communities, and the future of South Africa,” he said.
False Bay TVET College expressed pride in their students’ achievements: “These victories are more than individual accomplishments — they are a testament to the quality of education, training, and mentorship at False Bay TVET College.”
The College of Cape Town also thanked supporters of Mcotshana, saying: “We truly appreciate your support, colleagues.”
The Allan Gray Makers Competition is funded by Allan Gray Philanthropies and supported by the DHET, Absa South Africa, Future Managers, and SAB.
Sambaba, the overall winner, took to Facebook to express his gratitude.
“This award is more than just a trophy; it’s a validation of my mission to create sustainable change through entrepreneurship, education, and youth development. My journey is just beginning, and this moment fuels my commitment to continue building a legacy that uplifts communities and empowers the next generation of leaders,” said Sambaba.
Manamela called for greater recognition of artisans.
“Let us recognise the value and dignity of artisanal work. Let us celebrate the men and women who build, create, and innovate. They are the pillars of our economy, and they deserve our respect and appreciation,” said Manamela.
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