GradStar Awards
The GradStar Awards celebrate South Africa’s most employable students and graduates, with thousands of participants assessed against employer-valued criteria to select the Top 100. The annual GradStar Awards Week is a three-day event featuring employer workshops, the prestigious GradStar Awards ceremony, the GradStar Solution Summit, and the GradStar Students’ Choice Awards. This flagship event connects top talent with leading employers, fostering innovation and growth in South Africa’s workforce.
Find out more by visiting our Website (www.gradstar.com)

The GradStar Awards celebrate South Africa’s Top 100 most employable students and graduates, connecting them with leading employers. Through a rigorous selection process, candidates are assessed on their leadership potential, problem-solving skills, and workplace readiness. The awards culminate in the recognition of the 10 of the Finest, highlighting the most outstanding future leaders. By bridging the gap between top talent and industry, the GradStar Awards play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of professionals in South Africa.

The GradStar Solution Summit is a high-impact challenge where Top 100 students are divided into eight groups, each hosted by a leading company. After weeks of mentorship, students receive a real business case study on the day and have three hours to develop and present a solution. This fast-paced exercise tests their critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, simulating real workplace challenges. The 2024 summit saw eMomentum Group emerge victorious, highlighting the program’s role in bridging top talent with industry leaders and preparing Gen Z for the evolving job market.

The GradStar Students’ Choice Awards recognize the top employers that South Africa’s students most aspire to work for. Voted for by over 6,000 students nationwide, these awards highlight companies that excel in workplace culture, career growth opportunities, and employer reputation. The 2024 awards concluded with Absa being named Top Overall Employer, reflecting its strong appeal among young professionals. These awards provide valuable insights into Gen Z’s career preferences, helping companies attract and retain the next generation of talent.

The GradStar App is a cutting-edge platform connecting South Africa’s top students with leading employers. It offers a personalized career journey, allowing students to showcase their skills, access mentorship, and engage with potential employers. The app features job opportunities, career resources, and networking tools, making it easier for graduates to transition into the workforce. By bridging the gap between Gen Z talent and top companies, the GradStar App plays a crucial role in shaping the future of employment in South Africa.