TransUnion Rising Star Awards
The Awards identify, recognise and celebrate young future leaders from across all industries in South Africa, and a unique opportunity for these individuals to showcase their successes, as well as prove their commitment to development and growth – not only of themselves and their organisations, but also their industries and communities.
Schools Stars Award
Launched in 2022,the Schools Star Programme is a life-changing initiative that identifies and uplifts Gauteng’s most promising Grade 12 learners through free university application support, digital literacy training, and a rigorous assessment process. Each year, 500 top-performing students—many from disadvantaged backgrounds—are evaluated, with the top 100 awarded full bursaries for their tertiary studies, announced live at the event. More than just an awards ceremony, Schools Star breaks barriers by empowering marginalised youth and bridging the gap between high school and higher education.
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.
GradStar Solutions Summit
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. This programme plays an important role in bridging top talent with industry leaders and preparing Gen Z for the evolving job market.
GradStar Students’ Choice Awards
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. These awards provide valuable insights into Gen Z’s career preferences, helping companies attract and retain the next generation of talent.
GradStar App
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.