Words from the 2025 Stars

Being part of the Rising Star Programme has been an incredible journey of reflection and growth. It reminded me how far I’ve come and how much more I can still achieve. The process challenged me to think deeply about my industry, leadership style, and the power of collaboration. It reaffirmed my commitment to lead authentically, build meaningful partnerships, and influence positive change. Rising Star truly reignited my purpose and passion for leadership. 

The Rising Star Programme has been a deeply rewarding experience that encouraged me to pause, reflect, and realign my purpose. It reminded me that leadership is about influence, not titles, and that collaboration and authenticity drive real impact. The journey reignited my confidence, strengthened my resilience, and inspired me to create spaces where others can thrive. Rising Star has truly deepened my sense of purpose and reminded me why I do what I do. 

Being shortlisted for the TransUnion Rising Star Awards was truly transformative. The judging process was a highlight—both affirming and challenging. The encouragement I received reignited my dream of pursuing an MBA and reminded me of the power of mentorship. This journey sharpened my leadership vision and reinforced that true success lies in serving others and creating opportunities for growth. Rising Star has inspired me to lead with purpose, courage, and excellence. 

The Rising Star Programme has been a defining moment in my career. It challenged me to reflect deeply on who I am, what I value, and the leader I aspire to be. I learned that authenticity and purpose matter far more than position or title. This journey gave me clarity, courage, and renewed inspiration to drive innovation and lead with heart in the financial sector. I leave the experience grounded, inspired, and ready for what’s next. 

The Rising Star journey was truly transformative—equal parts reflection and discovery. It pushed me to question who I am as a leader and how I want to impact my industry, while also allowing me to enjoy the process of growth. Meeting visionary leaders across industries was a highlight that inspired me to think bigger and bolder. I leave this experience motivated to continue building, innovating, and leading with authenticity and purpose. 

Being a TransUnion Rising Star finalist has been a powerful journey of reflection and growth. The programme challenged me to pause, evaluate my leadership, and appreciate how far I’ve come. The judging criteria became a mirror for resilience, vision, and systems thinking, helping me see both my strengths and opportunities. This experience affirmed my purpose, inspired me to lead with integrity, and reminded me that recognition comes from persistence, impact, and dedication to shaping a better future. 

The Rising Star journey was an incredible experience that pushed me to think deeply about my growth as a leader. Preparing for the case study, presentations, and Q&A with the judges was both challenging and rewarding, sharpening my problem-solving and systems thinking skills. Being recognised as a finalist reminded me of the importance of collaboration, innovation, and purpose-driven leadership. Rising Star inspired me to continue creating meaningful impact in my organization and beyond. 

Being part of the Rising Star Programme was humbling and transformative. It reminded me that leadership is about service, authenticity, and creating meaningful impact. The journey challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, embrace diverse perspectives, and lead with clarity and resilience. Rising Star inspired me to contribute not only to professional success but also to a sustainable future, reinforcing the importance of courage, purpose, and collaboration in shaping impactful leadership.

The Rising Star Awards journey has been transformative, stretching me both professionally and personally. The semi-finals and finals challenged me to showcase my vision, systems thinking, and leadership skills authentically. This process taught me to connect strategy to practice and embrace agility and resilience. I leave the programme more confident, inspired, and equipped to make meaningful contributions, reaffirming my passion for finance, innovation, and leadership in shaping positive impact within my organization and beyond. 

The Rising Star Programme gave me the space to reflect deeply on my journey and connect my work to a larger purpose. It challenged me to embrace growth, step outside my comfort zone, and harness collaboration and innovation. Being part of this experience renewed my commitment to lead with integrity, courage, and impact. Rising Star has shaped how I approach leadership and inspired me to continuously strive for excellence and meaningful contribution in my organisation and industry. 

The Rising Star Programme was an insightful experience that challenged me to reflect on my leadership and business journey. While I would have appreciated more clarity on communications, the process encouraged me to pause, assess my goals, and explore new ways to create impact. Being part of Rising Star affirmed my commitment to growing as a leader and inspired me to continue building solutions that empower entrepreneurs and communities. 

Rising Star has been a journey of discovery and growth. It allowed me to reflect on my purpose, the leader I want to be, and how I can create meaningful impact. I learned that resilience, authenticity, and courage are essential for growth. The programme inspired me to step outside my comfort zone, embrace diverse perspectives, and lead with intention. Rising Star reinforced my commitment to creating lasting influence in my industry and community. 

Being part of the Rising Star Programme was affirming and transformative. It reminded me that people are at the center of every business and that leadership is about clarity, consistency, and empowering others. The journey highlighted the importance of courage, perspective, and fostering environments where others can thrive. Rising Star reinforced my determination to grow businesses that create opportunity, strengthen people, and make a meaningful, positive impact in communities.

The Rising Star Programme was transformative, giving me recognition and renewed confidence in my entrepreneurial journey. It challenged me to reflect deeply on resilience, innovation, and leadership, and consider the broader impact of my work on mental well-being, collaboration, and diversity. Rising Star inspired me to continue building with purpose while motivating the next generation of entrepreneurs to dream boldly, act courageously, and create meaningful impact. I am truly grateful for this opportunity. 

Rising Star helped me reconnect with my “why” and reaffirmed the value of my ideas. The judging process opened new possibilities and reminded me that I am the only one who can hold myself back. It reignited the passion I had when I first started advocating for mental health. Being part of this programme inspired me to continue pursuing impact with courage and purpose, and I am deeply grateful for the experience. 

Being part of the Rising Star Programme has been inspiring and humbling. It challenged me to reflect on my leadership style, vision, and responsibility to positively impact people and systems. The process, through case studies and interviews, reinforced the importance of balancing passion with empathy, vision with engagement, and agility with systems thinking. Rising Star reminded me that leadership is about influence, connection, and creating spaces where others can thrive, motivating me to lead with purpose. 

Being a Rising Star finalist is a powerful recognition of my professional journey. It gave me the space to reflect on my career pivot from mining to digital technology and celebrate my achievements, including launching Netstar’s award-winning consumer app. This journey reaffirmed my commitment to continuous growth, leveraging experience and knowledge to tackle bigger challenges, and making a meaningful impact. Rising Star has inspired me to think boldly and embrace every opportunity to lead with purpose. 

The Rising Star Programme was both challenging and eye-opening. It pushed me to reflect on my growth, my leadership approach, and the impact I want to make. The experience has strengthened my confidence, sharpened my perspective, and inspired me to continue building meaningful connections and solutions that drive positive change in my organization and beyond. Rising Star reminded me that leadership is about courage, purpose, and continuous growth.

The Rising Star Awards has been the highlight of my year. It reaffirmed that dedication, passion, and impact are valued and recognized. Engaging with like-minded industry leaders was energizing and inspiring. The programme strengthened my belief that leadership is about service, vision, and creating positive change. Rising Star reminded me of the importance of authenticity and purpose, inspiring me to continue building, innovating, and leading with intent in both my organization and society at large. 

Being part of Rising Star 2025 was a privilege. It reminded me that using my talents to make a difference empowers others and contributes to broader success. Reflecting on this journey highlighted the importance of collaboration, mentorship, and continuous learning. Rising Star reinforced gratitude for those who have shaped my path and inspired me to lead with purpose. The experience has motivated me to continue growing, innovating, and making an impact in my organisation and community. 

Being part of the Rising Star Programme has been a transformative experience. It challenged me to reflect on my purpose, sharpen my leadership skills, and connect with exceptional young professionals across industries. Each stage tested my resilience and celebrated growth, inspiring me to think boldly about the impact I want to create. Rising Star reaffirmed that young leaders can drive change today, and it motivated me to champion sustainability, collaboration, and innovation in my career and community. 

The Rising Star Programme offered a rewarding opportunity for reflection and growth. It pushed me beyond my comfort zone, helping me discover resilience, adaptability, and authenticity in my leadership. Learning from diverse perspectives emphasized the power of collaboration and meaningful impact. This journey gave me clarity on my purpose and the contribution I want to make in my career and community. Rising Star inspired me to lead with intention, courage, and a focus on creating positive change. 

Being part of the Rising Star Awards has been inspiring and eye-opening. It encouraged me to reflect on my career from new perspectives, highlighting the impact I can make in every role. The experience reinforced the importance of transformation, innovation, and leadership, and it reshaped how I approach influencing and inspiring others. Rising Star has given me renewed confidence and clarity, and I am grateful for the opportunity to grow both professionally and personally through this programme. 

The Rising Star journey reminded me that exceptional leadership comes from stepping out of comfort zones and embracing challenges. It reinforced my mantra that “a person is a person through other people” and highlighted the importance of resilience, growth, and service. Engaging with leaders across industries inspired me to lead with purpose and empower others. Rising Star has strengthened my vision, connected me with incredible peers, and reaffirmed my commitment to creating meaningful impact in my organization and beyond. 

The Rising Star Programme has been empowering and insightful. It gave me deeper self-awareness, highlighting areas for growth while reminding me of the leader I aspire to be. Interacting with the judges was a highlight, offering knowledge and inspiration that motivated me to aim higher. Becoming a finalist is a milestone I am proud of, representing courage, growth, and possibility. Rising Star has inspired me to continue pursuing my goals with purpose, confidence, and determination for the future. 

The Rising Star Programme has been a journey of reflection and growth. It pushed me to step outside my comfort zone, challenge myself, and expand my thinking beyond my core function. The experience encouraged me to evaluate the impact I make in my industry and community, while also reflecting on my own career aspirations and passions. Rising Star has inspired me to continue growing as a leader and to strive for meaningful contribution in everything I do. 

Participating in the Rising Star competition was a profound journey of growth and discovery. It challenged me to embrace discomfort as a catalyst for development and to pursue excellence as a daily practice. The programme encouraged resilience, patience, and courage, shaping both my professional and personal growth. Rising Star inspired me to lead with authenticity and purpose, reminding me that every challenge is an opportunity to evolve and make a meaningful impact. 

The Rising Star Awards was an enriching and enjoyable experience. The final stage was challenging, and engaging with industry leaders gave me fresh perspectives on leadership and strategy. The process emphasized vision, future-focused thinking, and meaningful contribution beyond personal achievement. Rising Star highlighted the value of reflection, connection, and growth, reinforcing that the journey and network created are as impactful as the finalist recognition itself. I am grateful for the inspiration and learning gained through this programme. 

The Rising Star competition provided an opportunity to reflect on my journey and reimagine the future. The three stages allowed me to rediscover my ambitions, redefine my purpose, and appreciate my present-day experiences. Networking with fellow finalists and judges was inspiring and insightful. Rising Star has clarified my vision, strengthened my confidence, and motivated me to take purposeful steps toward creating meaningful impact in my organization and the wider community. 

My Rising Star journey began unexpectedly, but it opened my eyes to leadership beyond titles. I realised leadership is about lifting others, mentoring, and tackling challenges with patience and passion. The programme helped me unlock my potential and embrace a style that blends logic with creativity. The final assessment, with incredible women from diverse fields, challenged my assumptions and expanded my perspective. Rising Star reminded me that true leadership is about impact, not recognition. 

The Rising Star Awards empowered me to reflect on authentic leadership—how I show up, and how my leadership impacts others. The judges’ encouragement reminded me leadership is a journey, not a destination. I walk away more confident, grounded, and committed to leading with empathy, lifting others as I rise. Rising Star affirmed that leadership isn’t defined by title but by intention and impact, shaping the leader I am continuing to become. 

Rising Star gave me the chance to learn from incredible professionals and reflect beyond myself. The judging process emphasized purpose, impact, and contribution. I became more resilient, compassionate, and passionate about mentorship and lifelong learning. The programme reminded me that leadership is about serving others and creating meaningful change in our industries. I am grateful to the BlackBark team for this platform, which has helped me grow personally and professionally, and refine how I contribute to others’ development. 

Rising Star boosted my confidence and helped me recognise the value of my contributions. The process encouraged reflection on my journey and what I can offer now and in the future. I realised that what I bring to the table matters and has impact. The experience left me motivated, inspired, and excited about my career growth. Rising Star reminded me that leadership is not only about achievement but about purpose and the meaningful contributions I can make along the way. 

Rising Star has been one of the most grounding experiences of my career. It taught me that leadership requires openness, collaboration, and listening as much as leading. Growth is ongoing, and meaningful change is collective. The journey strengthened my sense of responsibility to my industry, community, and the people I serve. I’ve learned to create space for others, rethink my responses to obstacles, and see leadership as a process of continuous learning and impact beyond myself. 

Rising Star was a journey of self-discovery. The case study on workplace mental health opened my eyes to leadership beyond targets—supporting people enables them to thrive. Engaging with systems thinking showed how small actions ripple into larger change. I realised leadership isn’t about position but how I show up, collaborate, and stay true to values. The programme gave me clarity, purpose, and belief in my ability to lead meaningfully from wherever I stand. 

Rising Star was more than a career highlight—it was a mirror reflecting the leader I am becoming. Leadership is about purpose, impact, and leaving things better than I found them. The female-only judging panel sharpened my passion for driving innovation and opening doors for others. The case study challenged me to embrace new perspectives. I left with clarity on the contribution I want to make in my industry and community. Rising Star is a call to lead with significance, not just success. 

Rising Star allowed me to pause, reflect, and refine the leader I aspire to be. The programme reinforced that leadership is defined by inspiring trust, empowering others, and fostering environments where people perform at their best. Through resilience, mindset, and influence sessions, I developed emotional intelligence and strategic thinking. Professionally and personally, the programme gave me renewed clarity and confidence to lead with purpose, courage, and impact—toward both organizational goals and broader societal change. 

Rising Star was transformative professionally and personally. Managing operations taught me the power of agility and adaptive leadership. The programme revealed my capacity to inspire teams through purpose-driven goals and operational resilience. I embraced diverse thinking and nurtured talent, spotting potential and fostering growth. This journey reaffirmed my belief in mining as a driver of national development. I leave more confident, purposeful, and committed to leading with integrity, empowering others, and making meaningful contributions to South Africa’s future. 

Rising Star challenged me to think beyond my career and consider South Africa’s pressing issues. Presenting to judges pushed me out of my comfort zone, boosting my confidence and articulation. I learned to show resilience and strength, regardless of challenges. The process reignited my passion for contributing to my country’s development and helped me realise that impactful leadership requires both courage and innovative thinking, influencing change in ways that go beyond my immediate work environment. 

Rising Star challenged and inspired me, creating opportunities for growth I hadn’t anticipated. The journey gave me a profound sense of achievement but, more importantly, prompted self-discovery. I learned resilience, how to push beyond my comfort zone, and to embrace both success and setbacks with curiosity. It sharpened my perspective on my career, clarified my strengths and passions, and reinforced the importance of balance, continuous learning, and approaching challenges with creativity, confidence, and determination. 

Rising Star reminded me to pause and reflect on the person behind my achievements. The programme reinforced my strength in connecting research to real-world impact and using my voice to create inclusive, resilient spaces. Leadership isn’t about being the loudest but about enabling others to rise with you. The experience taught me that true significance comes from purpose, not recognition, and inspired me to leave every space better than I found it. 

Rising Star was both affirming and challenging. From initial submission to final interviews, it required deep introspection about my impact and purpose. The experience helped me reflect on how to communicate my value in a balanced, authentic way. I gained meaningful insights, developed strong industry connections, and learned from mentors and peers. Overall, it was a journey of growth and self-discovery, leaving me with renewed confidence, clarity, and motivation to lead with purpose in all I do. 

Rising Star pushed me to surpass my limits and voice ideas I had kept to myself. The process reinforced the importance of staying true to my ideals and leading with a future-focused perspective. It has shown me how to inspire others by example, and the experience of connecting with talented peers across industries has been humbling. Rising Star challenged me to work harder, speak louder, and contribute toward meaningful change, shaping the leader I aspire to be. 

The Rising Star journey stretched me, prompting reflection on my work, leadership, and purpose. From initial application to being a finalist, each stage offered learning opportunities and strengthened my growth mindset. Though I could not participate in the final round, I remain grateful for the insights, mentorship, and recognition the programme provided. It reinforced the responsibility to contribute meaningfully within my industry and community and reminded me of the importance of perseverance, self-awareness, and striving for impact beyond titles. 

Rising Star encouraged me to think critically about challenges, team-building, and the future of my industry. The process helped me understand the choices and actions that shaped my current and future roles. Personally, it offered clarity on my growth, leadership style, and the impact I can have on my team and business. It reminded me that leadership is about intentional decisions, guiding others effectively, and constantly reflecting on how to improve both professionally and personally. 

Rising Star transformed how I view leadership. Presenting to the judges challenged me to reflect on my resilience, collaboration, and purpose. The programme pushed me out of my comfort zone and reminded me that true impact comes from meaningful contribution, not titles. It helped balance ambition with humility and gave me clarity on the legacy I want to create in my community. I leave inspired to lead with significance and drive positive change. 

Rising Star has been an incredible experience, recognising my potential and boosting my confidence as a value-based leader. Presenting to industry judges was humbling and inspiring, encouraging me to embrace passion and purpose in leadership. The process pushed me to think bigger, driving the retail sector’s agenda with renewed energy. Professionally and personally, it has shaped my approach to leading with impact, transforming people, and creating meaningful change. This milestone will guide my leadership journey for years to come. 

Rising Star inspired reflection and reignited my drive. Competing in the retail and hospitality category alongside talented individuals reminded me of my own potential and capabilities. The process challenged me to think creatively for my organisation and the broader industry, considering the impact of my leadership beyond immediate roles. I leave motivated to carry this energy forward, inspiring others, and ensuring that my leadership contributes positively to the organisation, industry, and community at large. 

Rising Star gave me the chance to pause and reflect on my values, purpose, and leadership impact. The recognition reinforced the importance of empathy and empowering others. It reminded me that true leadership involves collaboration and responsibility to those we serve. I now approach my role with renewed clarity, ensuring my decisions positively affect colleagues, customers, and the community. The programme strengthened my belief that impactful leadership is about purpose greater than oneself, leaving a lasting influence wherever I go. 

Rising Star has been a defining chapter in my journey. It allowed me to reflect on who I am as a leader, my purpose, and the impact I want to make. I discovered that authenticity and resilience are central to leadership, and true influence comes from inspiring others, not holding power. The programme pushed me outside my comfort zone, highlighting the importance of collaboration, humility, and contribution. I now lead with clarity, courage, and a focus on meaningful change. 

Rising Star was a deeply affirming experience. The rigorous interviews, assessments, and reflective exercises made each stage meaningful, focusing on growth rather than recognition. I was encouraged to reflect on my leadership style and sharpen the values I bring to work. The programme reinforced that resilience, authenticity, and preparation are essential to sustained impact. Personally, it boosted my confidence, and professionally, it reminded me that the journey and the learning along the way matter as much as any accolade. 

Being part of Rising Star has been an honour. Meeting fellow young leaders revealed how committed we are to driving societal change. The programme provided access to powerful networks, mentorship, and opportunities to strengthen our purpose-driven initiatives. Through interviews and guidance, I was able to reflect, self-correct, and re-strategise on personal and professional aspects. It highlighted the value of collaboration, innovation, and accountability. I leave grateful, inspired, and more equipped to contribute positively to my community and profession.

Rising Star has been humbling and eye-opening. As a social worker, I never expected to reach this stage, but the experience showed me the power of leadership rooted in courage, adaptability, ethics, vision, and innovation. Meeting inspiring role models and peers committed to improving South Africa reinforced my belief in collective action. The programme strengthened my resolve to create awareness around mental health and wellbeing, helping people not only survive but thrive, and reaffirmed my commitment to making a meaningful difference. 

Rising Star offered a structured opportunity to pause and reflect, something I rarely do. I realised that leadership is about awareness, understanding where power comes from, and taking responsibility for decisions. The programme highlighted that challenges are inevitable, but how we respond matters most. Personally, I learned to control my thoughts and emotions rather than blame others. Professionally, it reinforced the importance of striving not only for success but for societal impact, and to use my influence to make a meaningful difference. 

Rising Star has been an exciting and thought-provoking experience. It challenged me to stretch my thinking, showcase creativity, and apply systems-level problem-solving to real-world challenges. The programme allowed me to explore leadership in new ways and connect with like-minded professionals. I would encourage anyone seeking to amplify their leadership journey, test their creativity, and build meaningful networks to embrace this opportunity fully. Being part of this community of future leaders has been a true privilege. 

Reflecting on my second Rising Star experience, I’ve learned to approach leadership more intentionally. I discovered a greater capacity for adaptability and resilience, and how alternative perspectives can drive meaningful change. The programme helped me refine my career goals while offering a structured, insightful framework for growth. I leave with renewed confidence and excitement for the future, equipped with tools to lead more effectively, think creatively, and approach challenges with openness, self-awareness, and purpose. 

Rising Star accelerated my growth as a leader and problem-solver. It sharpened my innovative thinking and exposed me to diverse perspectives, challenging me to convert complex problems into practical solutions. I’ve learned to pause, test assumptions, and respond with clarity, while keeping people-centric leadership at the forefront. The programme reinforced accountability, ethical decision-making, and mentoring, leaving me more capable, curious, and committed. It strengthened my ability to deliver impact not only in technical areas but across people and systems. 

Rising Star has been transformative, reshaping how I view my career and the impact I want to make. It challenged me to reflect deeply on my contributions, leadership style, and the change I want to see in my industry. Personally, it has helped me understand the importance of purpose-driven leadership and being intentional about how I influence others. The programme has left me inspired to grow, lead authentically, and contribute meaningfully to my organisation and sector. 

Rising Star inspired me to live with purpose. It gave me space to reflect on my career, leadership, and how I can improve society through innovative ideas. The recognition has been humbling and provided clarity on the contribution I want to make within my industry. The programme challenged me to think critically, lead thoughtfully, and strive for continuous improvement. I leave committed to making a meaningful impact, carrying forward the lessons and inspiration gained from this experience.