Recognising Tomorrow’s Leaders
Founded in 2010 by Laura Barker, a seasoned media and marketing professional with deep
expertise in recognition and awards programmes, BlackBark Productions was born out of a
vision to celebrate and nurture young future leaders. What began as a single awards ceremony,
the Rising Star Awards, has since grown into a multifaceted organisation dedicated to unlocking
potential and creating opportunities for individuals across South Africa.
Today, BlackBark Productions runs two flagship initiatives: the Rising Star Awards and
GradStar Awards, alongside impactful programmes like the Rising Star Movement for Good and
Developing Stars. Together, these initiatives empower individuals to dream bigger, achieve
more, and become the leaders of tomorrow.
Our Flagship Initiatives
Rising Star Awards
The Rising Star Awards celebrate and connect young, talented individuals who demonstrate
exceptional potential and contribute meaningfully to South Africa and the African continent. By
identifying and nurturing these organisational and national assets, the programme provides
development, mentorship, and platforms for communication, empowering them to become role
models and inspire future generations.
GradStar Awards
The GradStar Awards recognise South Africa’s most employable students and graduates. The
annual GradStar Awards Week features employer workshops, an awards ceremony, the
GradStar Solution Summit, and the Students’ Choice Awards, connecting top talent with leading
employers to drive innovation and growth.
Rising Star Movement for Good
This initiative addresses food insecurity among less fortunate university students, providing
essential meals and support to ensure they can focus on their studies and personal growth,
reflecting BlackBark’s commitment to a brighter, more equitable future.
Our Programmes
Career Stars
Through its subsidiary, Career Stars, BlackBark Productions has launched the GradStar App, a
first-of-its-kind platform designed exclusively for students. Developed through in-depth market
research and student consultations, this mobile app allows students to connect with each other,
interact on a social wall, find job opportunities, and have their profiles matched with potential
employers. Recruiters, in turn, use the app to conduct precise searches and matches to meet
their recruitment needs.
Developing Stars
Developing Stars empowers South Africa’s youth by partnering with public and private sectors
to enhance operational capacity, increase graduate employment, and drive sustainable socio-
economic development. The ECD Financial Management Programme partners with GCRA, the
Gauteng Department of Education, HWSETA, training providers, and mentors to upskill
unemployed graduates through training and work placements. Graduates assist non-compliant
Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres in improving compliance and sustainability while
gaining work experience, entrepreneurial skills, and professional training, ultimately enhancing
ECD efficiency and strengthening South Africa’s workforce.