Awaken Africa Talent Awards (AATA)

Celebrating Africa's Youth, Creativity & Cultural Heritage

The Awaken Africa Talent Awards (AATA) is an initiative by Nelisa Awakening Africa (NAA), created to unlock, ignite, and showcase youth potential across the continent. AATA connects young talents to real-time opportunities, mentorship, brand endorsements, and global exposure—empowering them to turn creativity into sustainable livelihoods.

Through this platform, NAA also integrates its flagship innovations: N-Handy App – connecting skilled youth to real-time clients, and RideWave App – creating jobs through transport, delivery, and ride-sharing services. Both apps ensure AATA finalists and winners can leverage opportunities far beyond the event.

Award Categories

1. Best Vocal Performer (Singer)

2. Creative Entertainer of the Year:

3. Digital Voice Award (Influencer)

4. Style & Heritage Award (Fashion Designer)

5. Made at Home Award (Handcrafted Products)

6. Rhythm Innovator Award (Music Producer)

7. Tech Changemaker Award (IT Innovator)

8. Inclusion Excellence Award (Persons with Disabilities)

9. Next Generation Innovator (Under 16)

10. Miss Authentic Nelisa (Cultural Pride & Identity)

Event Highlights

Grand Finale Venue: Brussels Lounge, Manzini
Timeline: 25 Sept – 27 Dec 2025
  • Bootcamps: Top 3 finalists per category receive hands-on training
  • Public Voting: Engage the community through digital voting
  • Awards Ceremony: Live performances, celebrity DJs, and launch of N-Handy & RideWave apps
  • Endorsements & Mentorship: Post-event programs linking winners to sponsors, donors, and global platforms
Why Support AATA?
  • Empower Youth: Build resilient, self-reliant young leaders
  • Cultural Tourism: Position Eswatini as a hub for innovation & cultural pride
  • Brand Visibility: Sponsors gain direct exposure to 400+ guests and thousands online
  • Sustainability: Winners receive continuous mentorship, endorsements, and opportunities via NAA

Join us in igniting Africa's brightest talents and shaping tomorrow's leaders. Through AATA, we're creating a platform where young African creatives and innovators can showcase their talents, connect with opportunities, and build sustainable careers while celebrating our rich cultural heritage.

All intellectual property of AATA is owned by Nelisa Awakening Africa (NAA). Any unauthorized reproduction or use of the AATA concept is strictly prohibited.

Our work speaks for itself

Numbers Speak

Here is what we have accomplished so far.

1.2

M+

Impacted Youth

1600

+

Supported Projects

6

+

Countries