Will the Makers of Tomorrow Please Stand Up
They are the ones who dare to see the future. They are the ones who take plans out of WhatsApp groups. A fearless bunch. Are you a Maker Of Tomorrow? See, success is not microwavable; dreams don’t just come true. There’s a difference between those who become and those who don't. It’s up to you to make the right choice. Tomorrow is approaching, and we need the Makers of Tomorrow to make the right choice. And that starts with saying no to underage drinking. #NOtoU18 #MakersOfTomorrow
The Makers Circle Awards 2025
nominate now
What are The Makers Circle Awards?
The Makers Circle Awards are a national celebration of South Africa’s most inspiring under‑18 changemakers. Founded by AWARE.org, the awards recognise young people who say “#NOtoU18” alcohol use and “YES” to building a brighter future for themselves and their peers.
How It Works?
Call for Nominations - Friends, teachers, or community members nominate deserving 13‑17‑year‑olds online.
Screening & Shortlisting - Entries are checked for eligibility and impact; top nominees per category move forward.
Judging - A diverse panel reviews nominees using a clear scoring rubric to select 50 Makers.
Top 50 Reveal - The full list of Makers is published nationally via AWARE.org.
Awards Gala – Winners are honoured in Johannesburg at a high‑profile celebration.
The Makers Circle Awards 2025
Award Categories
For the everyday heroes helping others, leading change, or making a difference in someone’s life.
Community Upliftment
Celebrates young people who take initiative to uplift their communities. From volunteering to starting food drives, these changemakers tackle real challenges close to home.
Academics
Recognises learners who achieve outstanding academic results and help others do the same. They may tutor peers, lead study groups, or pursue knowledge beyond the classroom.
Sports
Honours young athletes who show talent, dedication, and strong values like teamwork and resilience. They often inspire others through both their performance and sportsmanship.
Arts & Culture
Shines a spotlight on youth using creativity to express themselves, preserve heritage, or share social messages. Includes music, dance, poetry, painting, theatre and more.
Entrepreneurship
Rewards youth who start projects or businesses that solve real problems or generate value in their communities. These are future leaders who turn ideas into action.
Aware Research Leaflet
Download the research
Get the latest insights into youth alcohol consumption in South Africa. Our 2024 national study, conducted with over 1,100 participants, explores underage drinking trends, the influence of peers and family, and the effectiveness of harm reduction campaigns.By downloading this research leaflet, you’ll gain a clear understanding of how young people engage with alcohol, what drives their behaviour, and which prevention strategies resonate most. This evidence can help inform your decisions, shape interventions, and support healthier communities.
Meet the
makers
Zinhle - Gamer
I’m 16, from Tembisa, and when it comes to gaming, I’m the one to beat - whether it’s strategy, shooters, or puzzle games, I’m always up for the challenge.
To some people, gaming is just something to pass the time. But to me, it’s so much more than that - it’s a way to sharpen my mind, to test my focus, and to learn how to think two steps ahead. I’ve learned how to stay calm under pressure, how to make quick decisions, and how to work as part of a team - lessons I carry with me into the real world too. When I’m gaming, I feel like I’m in control. I set my goals, I push myself to reach the next level, and I don’t stop until I do. That’s why I don’t let anything mess with my mindset or distract me from what really matters - especially alcohol. I know that every choice I make now either moves me closer to my goals or sets me back. Drinking under 18 doesn’t fit into the plan. I’ve got too much to focus on - my dreams deserve my full attention. I want to one day work in the gaming industry and design the kinds of games that inspire and challenge people like me. Every match, every victory, and even every defeat teaches me something new about myself and about what it takes to succeed. I’m a Maker of Tomorrow because I play smart - not just on the screen, but in life. And believe me, I’m just getting started - so watch this space.
Uzair – Engineer
What’s up, I’m Uzair. I’m 17, from Lansdowne, and I’ve always believed the world is something you can shape if you’re willing to put in the work.
One day, my name will be on the biggest bridges, the tallest towers, and the most brilliant buildings anyone’s ever seen. That’s been my dream for as long as I can remember - and I’ve been working toward it since I was a little kid. I used to take apart toys and gadgets just to see how they worked. Now, I spend hours sketching designs, building models, and learning everything I can about how things fit together. For me, engineering isn’t just a career I want to have - it’s a way of seeing the world. Every problem has a solution, and every obstacle is just another thing to figure out. But I know that you can’t build something strong if the foundation isn’t steady. That’s why I choose to stay focused, disciplined, and clear-minded. Drinking under 18 doesn’t fit into that picture - I need my mind sharp and my hands steady if I’m going to create something that really lasts. I see every day as an opportunity to build - to build myself, my skills, and my future. It’s not always easy, but nothing worth building ever is. I’m a Maker of Tomorrow because I’m laying down the foundations of my dreams right now, brick by brick, and I’m not letting anything or anyone stand in my way. One day, people all over the world will walk across my bridges, stand in my buildings, and know that I was here. That’s what I’m working toward - and I’m just getting started.
Naledi – Athlete
I’m 15, from Umlazi, and when I run, it feels like I’m flying. The track is my escape, my challenge, and my passion all rolled into one.
When I’m out there, it’s just me, the wind in my hair, the finish line ahead, and my dreams pushing me forward. Every race is a chance to prove something - to myself, to everyone watching, and to the future I’m chasing. Running has taught me that nothing worth having comes easy. You have to show up, even when you’re tired. You have to keep going, even when it hurts. And you have to make the kind of choices that keep you moving in the right direction. That’s why I take care of my body and my mind. Alcohol? That would just slow me down and make it harder to reach my goals. I know who I want to be, and nothing - not peer pressure, not parties, not shortcuts - is worth giving that up. One day, I want to compete on the biggest stages - to represent my country, break records, and inspire other young girls to believe in themselves. Every early morning training session and every late-night run is part of that journey. I’m a Maker of Tomorrow because I run toward my goals, not away from them. I’m not just running for medals - I’m running for the life I know I can create if I stay focused and keep pushing forward. And trust me - I’m just getting started.
The Makers Circle Awards Terms and Conditions Apply
Play. Earn. Win
Join the Party in Your Pocket:
A Roblox Adventure!
Are you ready to make a difference and have an epic time? Welcome to Party in Your Pocket,
an exclusive Roblox event where the fun never stops—but the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Some friends partied too hard, made bad choices, and got trapped in a mysterious portal.
Now, it’s up to YOU to save them and claim exclusive rewards!
an exclusive Roblox event where the fun never stops—but the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Some friends partied too hard, made bad choices, and got trapped in a mysterious portal.
Now, it’s up to YOU to save them and claim exclusive rewards!
