Words from the 2024 Stars

Participating in the TransUnion Rising Star Awards 2024 was an enriching journey that instilled immense pride and motivation. It enhanced my industry credibility, opened doors for growth and collaboration, and connected me with like-minded professionals. I am truly grateful.

Being part of the Rising Star Banking and Financial Services sector was an honour and a truly transformative experience. The process challenged me to reflect on my purpose and impact, while the opportunity to connect with passionate, purpose-driven leaders across industries left me inspired. This recognition has reaffirmed my commitment to transformation, inclusivity, and sustainable progress in FinTech. I’m deeply grateful to have been part of a platform that celebrates potential and drives meaningful change.

Winning the 2024 TransUnion Rising Star Award in Banking and Financial Services has been humbling and energising. The rigorous journey challenged me to reflect deeply and sharpen my strategic skills under pressure. Being recognised among exceptional change-makers was a proud moment. Mentorship from Lee Naik has transformed my view of leadership at scale. This award is more than recognition; it’s a platform to amplify impact and a springboard for purpose-driven leaders shaping South Africa’s future.

Participating in the Rising Star Awards was truly enlightening. The process pushed me to reflect on my journey with purpose—not just at the end, but while I was on it. The selection stages demanded clarity, resilience and authenticity. I gained confidence in my leadership voice and was deeply inspired by the calibre of fellow finalists. The Rising Star team’s unwavering support stood out, and the judges’ insights were invaluable. I’m grateful for this profound opportunity to grow and lead with intention.

Participating in the Rising Star Awards was a deeply affirming experience. From the rigorous selection stages to engaging with insightful judges, the programme challenged me to reflect on the impact of my work as CFO at Santam Client Solutions. I emerged more confident in my leadership voice and clearer in my purpose. The unwavering support from theRising Star Team was memorable, and the connections made with fellow finalists were inspiring. I’m grateful for this opportunity to grow, lead thoughtfully and amplify diverse talent in South Africa’s financial services sector.

The Rising Star journey gave me the space to reflect on eight years of personal and professional growth. The judging process encouraged deep self-awareness, helping me recognise both my achievements and challenges while remaining authentic. It reminded me of the importance of continuous critical thinking and pushing boundaries—affirming that growth is infinite and every professional can aspire to be more.

From nomination to being named as the Energy & Environment category winner, the Rising Star journey was deeply affirming and transformative. Winning validated years of dedication to clean energy innovation and reminded me of the power of purpose-driven work. It created lasting connections with mentors and like-minded change-makers, and continues to inspire me to raise the bar—for myself and the next generation of energy leaders.

The TransUnion Rising Star Awards 2024 has been a powerful catalyst for both personal pride and professional growth. It strengthened my credibility, created valuable opportunities for collaboration, and inspired me to aim higher in making a meaningful impact. This experience has been truly transformative, and I am deeply grateful for the platform, the connections made, and the motivation it has given me to continue advancing my career and contributing positively to my industry.

This journey has been both amazing and constructively challenging. It offered a rare external lens on my growth, affirming that my experience and current role are deeply relevant to the Energy and Environment sectors. Engaging with the judges pushed my thinking and provided valuable reflection. This recognition has energised my career and affirmed the value of years of hard work and dedication.

Being named a semi-finalist was humbling and deeply affirming. The journey encouraged reflection on my career, academics, and role in society—reminding me to pause and recognise how far I’ve come. It’s a story of resilience, hard work, and a constant eagerness to learn and grow.

Being part of the TransUnion Rising Star Awards was both affirming and energising. The process challenged me to refine my leadership and stay rooted in purpose. I appreciated how the Rising Star Team created space for authenticity and meaningful connection. It’s a platform that doesn’t just recognise talent — it elevates impact.

Being nominated in the Entrepreneurship category was an honour and an empowering experience. Sharing the work of Justice Desk Africa with the judging panel and connecting with passionate changemakers from across sectors reminded me of the power of collective impact. The platform affirmed our vision and reignited my pride in the work we do to empower Human Rights Defenders across the continent. I’m truly grateful to have been part of such a prestigious and inspiring initiative.

The TransUnion Rising Star Awards 2024 journey was an incredible experience from start to finish. Advancing from the Top 10 to the Top 5 and participating in interviews at the TransUnion offices was both challenging and rewarding. Every moment was unforgettable, leaving a lasting impression that has enriched my professional and personal growth. I am grateful for the opportunity and proud to have been part of such a remarkable process.

Being named a finalist in the TransUnion Rising Star Awards was a proud and humbling moment. It’s not often that platforms like this recognise leaders outside traditional corporate spaces, and that made it even more meaningful. The experience pushed me to pause, take stock of my journey, and realise the impact of building with purpose. I’m grateful to the Rising Star Team for creating a space where every story matters.

Being named a winner of the TransUnion Rising Star Awards has been an incredible and humbling experience. From the moment I was recognised as a finalist to the final announcement, this journey pushed me to reflect deeply on my leadership approach and the impact I strive to make. The Rising Star Team’s support was exceptional throughout, and engaging with the judges challenged me to think critically and grow. This award not only validates my efforts but also inspires me to continue leading with purpose and drive meaningful change in my field. I’m proud to stand alongside South Africa’s brightest emerging leaders and grateful for this life-changing opportunity.

Participating in the TransUnion Rising Star Awards was both challenging and rewarding. The process sharpened my ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and tested my resilience and adaptability under pressure. It deepened my critical thinking and refined my approach in high-stakes situations. I’m proud to stand alongside fellow changemakers committed to shaping South Africa’s economic future.

I first encountered the TransUnion Rising Star Awards as a mentor for GradStar last year, which revealed the incredible talent in our country. Being nominated, and ultimately winning, in the ICT category this year has been both humbling and inspiring. The experience prompted deep reflection on my career and the potential for greater impact. I’m grateful to Rising Star South Africa and sponsors for this unforgettable journey, and proud to witness the passion and innovation driving our industries forward.

I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be a finalist in the 2024 TransUnion Rising Star Awards. This experience has been a profound journey of self-discovery and professional growth. The rigorous selection process, which included a self-recorded video and a panel presentation, challenged me to articulate my leadership journey and vision with clarity and confidence. The support from the Rising Star Team was exceptional, providing clear communication and guidance throughout each stage. Engaging with fellow finalists and esteemed judges offered invaluable insights and broadened my perspective on leadership and impact. This recognition has not only validated my efforts but has also inspired me to continue striving for excellence and to contribute meaningfully to the communities I serve.

Refreshing, reflective, and challenging, the Rising Star process sharpened my strengths, revealed blind spots, and refined my unique value. It was an exciting journey that gave me hope for South Africa’s future. Kudos to the organising team and sponsors for delivering a smooth, impactful experience.

The Rising Star Programme has been an amazing journey, offering young leaders a platform to share experiences and inspire their communities. I’ve learned the importance of staying true to your purpose, which shapes both personal and professional growth. Authentic leadership, grounded in transparency, defines who I am and guides my team. I aspire to be a beacon of light for many as I continue my leadership journey in South Africa.

My experience has been truly heartwarming and prestigious. The TransUnion Rising Star Awards exemplify professionalism and high standards, making me feel honoured and acknowledged like never before. From the start, just reaching the finals felt like a win. The coordinators, judges, and everyone involved were outstanding. This platform has motivated me to keep making a difference as an HR professional. I’m proud to have been part of the 2024 finalists.

Representing BMW Group South Africa as a finalist in the Industrial Manufacturing category has been an incredible and humbling journey. This experience challenged me to expand my horizons, apply critical thinking, and develop innovative, adaptable solutions beyond traditional boundaries. It reinforced the universal value of flexibility and creativity in problem-solving, both professionally and personally. I’m grateful for the growth this opportunity sparked and look forward to making a positive impact moving forward.

The entire experience was truly memorable, made even better by the outstanding support staff who were consistently encouraging throughout the journey. Their unwavering positivity and guidance kept me motivated and focused, helping me navigate each stage with confidence. Their dedication to ensuring all finalists felt supported and valued made a significant difference, turning what could have been a stressful process into an uplifting and rewarding opportunity for growth.

“The mind, once stretched by a new idea, never returns to its original dimensions” perfectly captures my Rising Star Awards experience. The holistic criteria went beyond performance and intelligence to include ethics and integrity. The Awards created a safe space to be authentic and share openly. The leadership conversations prepared me for the future of work. Though the case study was a deep challenge, I’m proud of all finalists for showing up and giving their best.

Participating in and winning the Industrial Manufacturing category for the 2024 TransUnion Rising Star Awards was a transformative journey. The rigorous case study pushed my analytical and problem-solving skills under intense pressure, requiring quick yet thoughtful strategy development for the industrial manufacturing sector. Presenting to esteemed judges tested my resilience and creativity. Being named a finalist validated my commitment to excellence and inspired me to keep pushing boundaries and driving meaningful change in my field.

Being recognised as a finalist in the TransUnion Rising Star Awards was both humbling and affirming. The journey offered me a powerful space to reflect on my leadership journey and the impact of my work. The process was rigorous yet inspiring, pushing me to articulate my vision clearly and engage deeply with a panel of experienced judges. This experience not only strengthened my confidence but also expanded my network and opened doors for further growth. I’m grateful to the Rising Star Team for creating such an empowering platform that celebrates the next generation of South African leaders.

My TransUnion Rising Star Awards journey has been extraordinary. Being named a Top 10 semi-finalist filled me with pride and validated my passion for impact in Manufacturing and FMCG. The Top 5 interview in Sandton, with an insightful and supportive panel, challenged me to reflect and share my vision confidently. This experience reaffirmed my commitment to excellence and pushing boundaries. I’m truly grateful for this milestone and excited for what lies ahead.

Being a finalist in the 2024 TransUnion Rising Star Awards has been an incredible experience that has allowed me to showcase my leadership in supply chain management and connect with inspiring professionals. The journey encouraged me to reflect deeply on my growth and reinforced that leadership is truly about collaboration and shared purpose. This opportunity has strengthened my commitment to driving meaningful change within my industry, and I’m grateful to be part of such a supportive and impactful community.

Being the Manufacturing FMCG Winner for the 2024 Rising Star Awards was a humbling and thrilling experience. It highlighted our team’s dedication to transformation and reignited my passion for my work. From the intense video interviews to the exhilarating in-person panel, every moment challenged and inspired me. This journey has been a career highlight and fuels my commitment to advancing food security and safety across Africa. I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to shine a light on young leaders making a real impact.

Being named a finalist in the 2024 TransUnion Rising Star Awards was a profound milestone in my career. The rigorous selection process pushed me to articulate my leadership journey and vision with clarity and purpose. Throughout this journey, I had the privilege of engaging with a community of like-minded professionals, each committed to driving meaningful change in their respective fields. The support and encouragement from the Rising Star Team were invaluable, providing guidance and fostering an environment of growth and collaboration. This experience has not only deepened my understanding of leadership but has also reinforced my commitment to contributing positively to the professional services industry. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of such an inspiring initiative and look forward to continuing this journey of growth and impact.

The TransUnion Rising Star experience has been amazing – I’ve learnt a lot about myself, what I’m capable of, and met some awesome people along the way. I feel honoured to be standing alongside some other incredible Rising Stars. The organisational team and the judges have all been a pleasure to work with and I’m grateful for the experience.

Being recognised as a finalist in the 2024 TransUnion Rising Star Awards was an eye-opening journey for me. The process challenged me to clearly express my leadership story and the impact I strive to make in my field. Engaging with such a talented group of professionals inspired me and expanded my perspective on what true leadership entails. The Rising Star Team’s consistent support made a real difference, helping me navigate each stage with confidence. This experience has strengthened my dedication to fostering growth and positive change in my industry. I’m truly thankful for the opportunity to be part of this impactful community and excited for what lies ahead.

This amazing experience reinforced my belief that everything happens in perfect timing, a divine alignment calling for presence, intention, and commitment to my unique path. I’ve learned every moment is an opportunity to grow and become who I’m meant to be. Honouring the timing of my life means living with purpose and trusting God’s plan. In my career, I commit to showing up fully, authentically and intentionally, knowing each phase shapes my future and being the winner in the Media & Advertising category has only reinforced that.

Professionalism at its best, this is how I describe my TransUnion Rising Star experience. From the nomination, I felt like a winner. Communication was clear, and the team was approachable throughout. The journey boosted my confidence as a Youth Ambassador and inspired me to engage more deeply with the communities I serve. Overall, this life-changing experience has been incredible, and I’m grateful to everyone involved.

The unexpected call nominating me for the Rising Star 2024 was a humbling reminder that dedication pays off. Progressing through each round built my confidence and dispelled imposter syndrome. Presenting my case study on empowering local SMMEs was a defining moment. This journey fostered personal growth, expanded my network, and opened new opportunities. I’m honoured to stand alongside exceptional candidates and look forward to contributing to the Rising Star community as an alumna

Being a Rising Star finalist has been deeply rewarding. The journey pushed me to refine ideas and think critically about challenges in mining and minerals, especially financial inclusion. Engaging with inspiring leaders and receiving insightful feedback from judges challenged me to think more strategically and holistically. This competition has been a valuable platform for growth and a source of great pride. I’m grateful for the exposure, learning, and support throughout the experience.

The TransUnion Rising Star Awards journey has been incredible and transformative. From nomination to finalist, it validated my passion for advancing gas sensing technologies and advocating for women in STEM. The rigorous process challenged me to reflect deeply on my career, vision, and leadership in technology. Engaging with insightful judges broadened my perspective on the societal impact of my work. This recognition affirms the importance of diverse voices in science and strengthens my commitment to inspire future generations.

Being selected as a TURSA finalist has been both humbling and rewarding. This journey deepened my reflection on leadership, resilience, and the impact I have on others. It reminded me to be intentional in supporting the next generation of leaders. The experience affirmed the vital role young leaders play in shaping the future. Regardless of the outcome, I’m excited to continue growing and contributing to the Mining and Minerals sector.

The program has been an exciting and rewarding journey, giving me space to reflect on my personal growth—something I hadn’t done before. It was eye-opening to realise that the work I considered routine is truly valuable. The judging process was a meaningful experience, made even better by a welcoming and friendly panel. For me, this journey became more about discovering my strengths than about winning.

Winning the 2024 TransUnion Rising Star Award in Mining & Minerals was transformative. As a finance professional, this journey helped me find my voice and show how financial insights drive meaningful change. Challenged and inspired by brilliant minds, I gained confidence and a renewed conviction to challenge outdated perceptions and shape the future of finance in mining and the broader industry.

The Rising Star experience has been competitive, thought-provoking, and exhilarating. From being nominated to winning the Professional Services category, I was inspired by the diverse talents and leadership I witnessed. The challenging case study pushed my creativity and problem-solving under pressure, reshaping my view of leadership beyond career confines. Engaging with judges sparked deep reflection on impact and innovation. I’m grateful for this journey, the connections made, and the opportunity to grow as a leader committed to making a difference across South Africa’s socio-economic landscape.

Participating in the TransUnion Rising Star Awards has been one of the most transformative experiences of my career. The fierce competition challenged me to push boundaries, think creatively, and stay resilient. The support from peers, mentors, and judges made the journey rewarding. Reaching the finals alongside esteemed professionals validated my efforts and growth. This experience was more than a competition—it was a journey of self-discovery and professional development. I’m grateful to be part of such an inspiring community.

The TransUnion Rising Star Awards journey has been both affirming and transformative. It prompted meaningful self-reflection—something that often gets lost in the pace of daily work—and reminded me of the value in pausing to acknowledge growth. Connecting with other finalists who are equally passionate about impact was incredibly energising. I appreciated the integrity of the process and the genuine care shown by the Rising Star Team. This experience reignited my commitment to leadership rooted in purpose, and I leave it feeling more connected to my own path and to South Africa’s future.

The TransUnion Rising Star Awards Programme was a transformative experience that challenged me to grow both personally and professionally. I was impressed by the high level of professionalism and support demonstrated by all stakeholders involved throughout the programme.

Participating in the Rising Star Awards programme was a truly transformative experience. The rigorous process pushed me to confront my limitations and uncover blind spots I had overlooked. Through self-reflection and challenging exercises, I gained a clear roadmap for growth. The interviews with knowledgeable judges provided invaluable insights and constructive feedback that shaped my thinking. This journey stretched my mind, encouraging critical reflection on my goals, industry, and impact, making the demanding process deeply rewarding.

Participating in the TransUnion Rising Star Awards has been an incredible journey shaping my professional path. Preparing for the one-way interview was both exciting and nerve-wracking, pushing me to reflect deeply and think on my feet. Being named a finalist filled me with pride and determination. The judging panel made me feel comfortable, allowing me to showcase my strategic thinking. This experience enriched my career, strengthened my resilience, and solidified my commitment to making a difference.

This Rising Star journey has been truly transformative. Reflecting on a dream I penned 10 years ago, I’m grateful for the growth, lessons, and incredible people I’ve met. Being named a Top 5 finalist in Retail has deepened my belief in resilience, leadership, and embracing change. This experience showed me the impact I can make beyond Massmart and reaffirmed that with determination and gratitude, anything is possible. I’m proud of my growth and excited for what’s next.

The nomination process initially felt quite intimidating, but the Rising Star team supported me every step of the way. Their guidance and clear communication helped me gain confidence and a solid understanding of what was expected at each stage. The team was incredibly efficient and thorough with their follow-ups, ensuring I never felt lost or uncertain. Their professionalism made the entire experience smooth and empowering, allowing me to focus fully on presenting my best self throughout the journey.

Being named a finalist in the TransUnion Rising Star Awards was both humbling and illuminating. The process offered me space to pause, reflect on my journey, and align my purpose with impact. Meeting incredible professionals and engaging with insightful judges affirmed that leadership isn’t only about success, but about resilience, vision, and community upliftment. I deeply appreciate the Rising Star Team’s commitment to fairness and encouragement. This experience has strengthened my resolve to lead authentically and contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s future.

I feel honoured and humbled to be the winner of the Retail & Hospitality of the 2024 TransUnion Rising Star Awards. From application to finals, the journey gave me space to reflect on my personal and professional growth. Challenges once daunting have shaped me into the solution-driven person I am today. Meeting the judges reminded me that life isn’t just about climbing the corporate ladder but finding balance and enjoying the present. Connecting with like-minded peers reinforced our shared determination to succeed and support one another.

Participating in the TransUnion Rising Star Awards has been a profound turning point in my leadership and professional journey. It taught me that true leadership is about enabling others, fostering resilience, and embracing creativity beyond personal goals. Facing challenges—like interviewing remotely under pressure—showed me the power of adaptation and calm under duress. This experience sharpened my vision, strengthened my self-belief, and inspired me to lead with empathy, passion, and purpose to create lasting impact for my team and community.

Being a winner in the Services: Public & Private category in the Rising Star Awards Programme has been a profound experience, both professionally and personally. It has showcased the incredible platform this programme provides for individuals to highlight their contributions and engage with leaders driving change. Throughout this journey, I’ve learned how perseverance and collaboration can transform obstacles into opportunities—lessons I apply purposefully in both work and everyday life. Professionally, the programme reinforced the importance of vision and systems thinking in my role as a leader. It also deepened my appreciation for the power of shared purpose in driving long-term success that will elevate South Africa. This experience has been a powerful reminder of my worth and capabilities, and it is an absolute honour to stand alongside the country’s very best. Being part of such a prestigious programme has reaffirmed my commitment to creating meaningful and sustainable change.

My experience with the TransUnion Rising Star Awards Programme has been truly rewarding. The judges’ passion and dedication to nurturing talent stood out as a highlight. The programme’s management, especially Ashleigh Cozett’s leadership, was exceptional, ensuring clear communication and smooth running. Connecting with like-minded professionals inspired me deeply. Being recognised alongside such accomplished finalists is humbling and motivating. Overall, this journey has challenged me to push further and strive for excellence in both my work and leadership.

Being named a finalist in the TransUnion Rising Star Awards was an affirming milestone in my journey. The experience offered far more than recognition—it was a space for introspection, intentional growth, and alignment with a community committed to impact. Each phase of the process challenged me to articulate not just what I do, but why I do it. I’m especially grateful to the Rising Star Team for their thoughtful stewardship of the programme. This experience reminded me that leadership is a responsibility, not just a title—and one I embrace with renewed purpose.

Being a TransUnion Rising Star finalist was a powerful moment in my journey. It reinforced my passion for empowering youth and uplifting communities. The experience connected me with inspiring leaders and deepened my commitment to lead with purpose and drive meaningful change. This platform is more than an award. it’s a call to keep unlocking potential and pushing boundaries.

Being named a finalist in the TransUnion Rising Star Awards was a humbling and motivating experience. The process encouraged me to reflect on my journey, reaffirming my commitment to excellence and continuous growth. Engaging with like-minded professionals and receiving support from the Rising Star Team was invaluable. This recognition has strengthened my resolve to lead with integrity and contribute meaningfully to my field and community.

Being a Finalist and Winner of the TransUnion Rising Star Award 2025 was both overwhelming and deeply humbling. It was an incredible honour to be recognised among such exceptional talent, and I carry that pride with me every day. The entire journey—from nomination to the final awards was inspiring and challenging, reaffirming the power of purpose-driven leadership. Most importantly, I connected with a lifelong network of remarkable individuals who continue to inspire and uplift each other. This experience has been truly value-adding, and I’m immensely grateful for the platform to grow, share, and lead.

Throughout the competition, communication from Ashleigh was consistently clear, timely, and supportive, which made the entire process smooth and reassuring. The experience itself was an excellent learning opportunity—challenging, relevant, and highly valuable. It was not only enjoyable but also made me feel truly special and motivated to push myself even further. The event was executed with great quality by BlackBark, reflecting professionalism at every stage. Most importantly, this journey has helped me connect more deeply with my personal and professional purpose and the responsibility that comes with leadership.

Participating in the three stages of the competition and reaching the Finalist stage was an incredible experience. The process challenged me to effectively communicate my leadership skills and present a compelling case study. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to learn more about myself and to gain valuable insights from fellow participants and experienced judges. The selection process was engaging, involving a questionnaire, a self-recorded video, and a panel presentation. Throughout, Ashleigh was extremely supportive, promptly addressing our queries and keeping us well-informed about activities and deadlines. This event is truly remarkable in its celebration of professionals across diverse industries, and I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all the sponsors and partners who make it possible.

The Rising Star Awards experience was truly amazing and unmatched. I gained invaluable insights that fostered both my personal and professional growth. This process not only develops individuals but also equips us to uplift others, contributing to a South Africa where everyone can thrive and succeed, regardless of their background or profession.