Sunlight’s #RaiseTheBar: NextGen movement announces its winning schools, injecting R1.35 million into grassroots South African youth culture.
From township school halls to specialized learning environments, Sunlight #RaiseTheBar: NextGen has officially crowned the schools shaping Mzansi’s next generation of cultural talent. Spanning multiple provinces and communities across the country, the nationwide movement uncovered young rappers, Amapiano dancers, and creators using music, movement, and storytelling to express identity, confidence, and pride.
The confirmed winning schools are Umqhele Comprehensive Schooland Katlehong Engineering School from Thembisa (Gauteng), Sabela Senior Secondary School in Newcastle (KZN), Le-Reng Secondary School in Ladybrand (Free State), Grace and Favour Christian Academy in Lerome (North West), ESCA Wanderers in Johannesburg(Gauteng), Tshilvho Primary in Thohoyandou (Limpopo), Fulton School for the Deaf in Durban (KZN), and Hoërskool Cillié High School in Gqeberha (Eastern Cape), with one additional school still to be announced to complete the national Top 10.
“This recognition belongs to every learner who had the courage to put themselves forward and express who they are through music and dance. It has brought pride to our school, excitement to our community, and shown our learners that their talent has value. Most importantly, it reminds them that where they come from should never limit how far they can go,” says Miss Thandeka Hadebe, teacher at Sabela Senior Secondary School in Newcastle.
Helping drive the movement’s cultural energy was culture phenomenon and Sunlight ambassador Robot Boii, whose connection to youth culture, dance, and self-expression made him a natural fit for the initiative.
“This experience changed me,” says Robot Boii. “Going to these schools and seeing the level of talent firsthand was emotional. You could feel the hunger, the confidence, and the creativity in every performance. These learners are not waiting for opportunities; they are creating them for themselves. Some of these kids are future stars, but more importantly, they are finding belief in who they are.”
Acclaimed Hip-Hop artist and fellow Sunlight ambassador Tyson Sybateli also played a key role throughout the tour, amplifying the platform’s connection to lyricism, youth identity, and modern South African culture.
Each winning school will receive R100,000 towards school and community development, while entering students receive R35,000 in recognition of their creativity and impact. Altogether, the music and dance challenge is injecting R1,35 million directly into grassroots youth culture and community upliftment across South Africa.
As part of Sunlight Laundry Bar’s 135-year celebration in South Africa, #RaiseTheBar: NextGen became more than a competition. It became a national showcase of authentic Mzansi youth culture, from Amapiano dance crews and lyrical storytelling to schools rallying behind their learners with pride and energy. The inclusion of schools such as Fulton School for the Deaf also reinforced the movement’s belief that creativity belongs to everyone, regardless of geography, background, or circumstance.
“At Sunlight, we believe creativity can unlock confidence, belonging, and opportunity,” says Noni Makhanya, Marketing Manager for Sunlight. “This campaign gave young people a platform to express who they are and celebrate where they come from, while creating something positive for their schools and communities.”
While the curtains close on this chapter of the challenge, the real impact is just beginning. Long after the music fades, the infrastructure upgrades and creative investments left behind ensure that the next wave of Mzansi’s cultural trailblazers are fully equipped to keep raising the bar.
