The South African Premier Business Awards is an annual event hosted by the Department of Trade and Industry (the dti) in partnership with Proudly South African and Brand South Africa. The awards recognise business excellence and honours enterprises that promote the spirit of success and innovation as well as job creation, good business ethics and quality. These awards bring together all single sectored awards, among others technology, manufacturing and women in business. 
 

2018 2019winners

2015winners

2015winners

2014winners

Young Entrepreneur Award 2015/16

http://designquarter.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dna-600x600.png

DNA Brand Architects was announced as the winner of the Young Entrepreneurs category at the 2014/15 edition of the South African Premier Business Awards (SAPBA).

The award recognises 100% youth-owned enterprises trading in South Africa and young individuals who demonstrate high levels of entrepreneurship and innovation.

http://dnabrand.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Vodacom-illustrations-700x525.jpgThe company was formed in 2012 and specialises in unpacking brand DNA to create legacy projects that are unusual, insightful and effective. The DNA team prides itself on bringing fresh thinking to the boardroom and making the unusual happen.

The company has gone on to create outstanding work for some of the leading brands in the country, including the likes of Vodacom, Nedbank, South African Breweries, Pernord Richard, Steers and USAID.

The company was founded by marketing ace Sylvester Chauke, who rose to prominence in the industry during his four-year stint as the head of marketing for Nando’s, a brand known for pushing the envelope and that has been responsible for some of the most memorable, groundbreaking and often controversial marketing campaigns to ever feature on the South African landscape.

Chauke realised his passion for advertising and creative communication as a pre-teen and, after completing an Honours degree in marketing and communication, he cut his teeth at some of the country’s top creative agencies, but he credits his time at Nando’s as a turning-point in his career.

“The experience gained at Nando’s was life-changing. I came into franchise at a time when Nando’s wanted to get back to its hey days of creative excellence in terms of its approach, and to be given the opportunity to lead advertising was incredible,” says Chauke. “This is where I was able to demonstrate how unconventional thinking can really yield results.”

A stint with the Viacom Group as the head of marketing for MTV Africa followed, but the desire to start his own business had always been strong with Chauke and soon he took the leap of faith and started DNA Brand Architects; the rest is history.

“I guess I always knew that there was a need for young black thinkers who are able to creatively solve problems; because I was there doing it in the corporate environment,” explains Chauke. “It was the natural next step after almost 15 years in the industry and every step towards actualising this dream has come with its own hurdles, but we have been triumphant.”

Like any business starting out, there were teething problems, but these were overcome by Chauke and his team to build the reputation and credibility of the agency, which has thrived since it was founded.

Chauke believes that entrepreneurs need to love and believe in the work they do and realise that what they do should have a positive effect on those they work with and the country as a whole.

“I am a teacher through and through, so mentoring is natural to me. I am always on hand to support my team, who on a daily basis come to me for counsel and leadership,” he explains. “I also mentor quite a number of young graduates in their transition to the corporate world as well other professionals who reach out for counsel and advice in business.”

DNA Brand Architects entered the SAPBA because they felt it was important for the work of young entrepreneurs to be recognised for the contribution they make in business. The awards showcase businesses that demonstrate that it is possible to be young and run successful and effective businesses that add value to the economy.

Since winning the award, the company’s profile has been elevated and it continues to punch above its weight with its impressive client list.

Go to top