Africa-Press – Eswatini. Eswatini’s young innovators stole the spotlight at the 17th JA Company of the Year Competition, with ministers and JA leaders hailing their creativity, climate-smart ideas, and entrepreneurial spirit.
The 17th edition of the JA Eswatini National Company of the Year Competition at Metropolitan Church Auditorium in Fairview on Friday drew applause not just for the winners but for the inspiring speeches from the Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade and the JA Eswatini Board Chair.
The Minister lauded the event as a “bold platform for cultivating the architects of tomorrow’s economy,” praising the students’ creativity and commitment to sustainable business.
He highlighted this year’s theme, Action for Climate Transformation, noting its importance in tackling climate change while fostering economic growth.
“These students are not just launching businesses, they are launching movements. Their ventures combine innovation, sustainability, and social impact,” the minister said.
He also thanked Standard Bank and other partners for supporting youth to compete on the continental stage, describing entrepreneurship as a key driver for Eswatini’s growth and prosperity.
Echoing this, the JA Eswatini Board Chair praised the organisation’s 17-year journey in youth empowerment.
“Our programs in financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and career development have reached over 8 300 students this year. With corporate mentorship, job shadowing, and seed capital, these young people are becoming resilient, innovative, and confident,” the chair said.
He acknowledged the Ministries of Commerce, Industry and Trade, Education and Training, and the Taiwan Embassy for funding and supporting the programs. He also praised teachers and school heads for fostering a culture of entrepreneurship among students.
The competition itself was a showcase of talent, with the top five schools being Vulamasango High, St Mary’s High, Usuthu Forest High, Ekukhanyeni High, and Bontsanga Literacy Club.
After final presentations, Ekukhanyeni High School was crowned overall winner, earning the trophy, certificate, and E10 000 prize money, along with a week of free accommodation in Nigeria to represent Eswatini at the JA Africa finals in Abuja this December. Usuthu Forest High School came second, while Vulamasango High School secured third place.
Full List of Winners:
Position One (Overall Winner): Ekukhanyeni High School
Position Two: Usuthu Forest High School
Position Three: Vulamasango High School
Highest Profit: Vulamasango High School
Best Records: Vulamasango High School
Best Overall Facilitator: Tsidiswa Mhlanga (Sifundzani High School)
Most Innovative: Usuthu Forest High School
Best Project Arrangement: St Mary’s High School
Best Marketing Team: Usuthu Forest High School
Green Award: Ekukhanyeni High School
Social Entrepreneur: Bontsanga Literacy Club
Excellent Teamwork: Ekukhanyeni High School
Most Viable Product: Ekukhanyeni High School
Best CEO: Vulamasango High School
Winners received their accolades from JA Eswatini management, Ministry representatives, and sponsors including Standard Bank, Fincorp, Taiwan Embassy, Ezulwini Town Council, and Matsapha Town Board.
Both the Minister and JA CEO emphasized that the real victory lies in the skills, confidence, and networks gained through participation.
“Whether you take home the trophy or not, you are already champions of change,” the minister said, a sentiment mirrored by the JA Board Chairman.
With Ekukhanyeni, Vulamasango, and Usuthu Forest dominating the awards, the event highlighted the transformative power of youth entrepreneurship in Eswatini, building leaders who are ready to innovate, create social impact, and drive the nation forward.
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