SEACon, formerly known as the ESG Africa conference, is excited to announce the launch of the third edition of the prestigious ‘Beyond Awards’. This year, the Beyond Awards will be co-located with the YES (Youth Employment Service) ESG Awards, creating a platform to recognize individuals and organizations that are driving sustainable business practices in South Africa. The awards ceremony will take place alongside the ESG Africa conference, scheduled for October 15-16, 2025, at the Sandton Convention Centre.
The conference aims to bring together business leaders from Africa to address pressing issues in sustainable practices. The theme for this year, “Adapt. Innovate. Succeed. Driving sustainability in changing times,” underscores the importance of companies adjusting to the evolving sustainability landscape and showcasing how sustainability initiatives contribute value to the bottom line.
The YES ESG Awards aim to acknowledge organizations that have gone above and beyond in promoting inclusive youth development and social impact in South Africa. By offering quality work experience to the youth, these companies are making a significant contribution to a sustainable and inclusive economic future for the country. The honorees are at the forefront of advancing the “S” in ESG by creating employment opportunities, fostering economic growth, and supporting social development across the nation. Through their collaboration with YES, these companies are making a remarkable social impact, empowering the youth to shape their own success and become agents of change in society.
Joshua Low, co-founder of the conference, expressed his gratitude for running the Beyond Awards alongside partners and sponsors, as well as hosting the event alongside the YES ESG Awards program. The awards ceremony is set to take place on October 15th, concurrently with the Sustainability and ESG Africa conference. The goal is to build an ecosystem of ESG and sustainability professionals, raising awareness and education on the benefits of sustainability and ESG in fostering a more sustainable future for all.
Ravi Naidoo, CEO of YES, highlighted the significance of bringing the awards together this year, indicating a shift from the sidelines to the main stage for the industry. The increased focus on ESG and sustainability by senior executives is evident, with expectations of surpassing previous conference participation and award entries. YES is proud to be part of this initiative.
In the 2024 edition, the Beyond Awards received over 414 entries across 5 award categories, attracting more than 300 delegates to celebrate the winners. This year, two new award categories have been introduced, namely ‘Beyond Sustainability Project Small-scale’ and ‘Beyond Communications Strategy’, expanding the awards to 7 categories. Organizations and individuals with a proven track record in sustainability are encouraged to apply, with the deadline set for August 15, 2025.
The winners of both awards programs will be announced at an official ceremony on October 15th at the Sandton Convention Centre, starting at 7 pm. For entry submissions or more information about the awards, visit the SEACon website at www.esgafricaconference.com or contact the organizers at hannelie@esgafricaconference.com. For details on the YES awards, visit https://www.yes4youth.co.za/event-template-3.
About SEACon:
SEACon, previously known as the ESG Africa conference, is Africa’s premier event focusing on Environmental, Social, and Governance issues, supported by leading industry bodies and organizations. The conference aims to gather over 500 delegates from across Africa to discuss sustainable business practices on the continent.
About the Beyond Awards:
The Beyond Awards celebrate African sustainability initiatives, showcasing companies committed to addressing critical issues and driving meaningful change. The ceremony aims to anchor sustainability in South Africa and share global best practices in sustainability initiatives.
About the YES ESG Awards:
The YES ESG Awards, held at the ESG Africa Conference 2024, recognize private sector companies for their outstanding efforts in creating social impact through job creation.
For more information on the awards program and entry guidelines, contact the organizers at hannelie@esgafricaconference.com.
