Get Involved

How to Enter the Awards

The SABQA nomination process is open, transparent and simple. Any business, institution or leader operating in Southern Africa can be nominated.

The Process

Four Simple Steps

Submit Nomination

Nominate a brand, business or leader across any of our 8 award categories through our online form.

Research & Verification

Our independent research panel verifies nominations and conducts market research over 8 weeks.

Public Voting

Shortlisted nominees are opened to public vote. Consumers and the public select their preferred brand.

Gala Ceremony

Finalists are celebrated and winners announced at the prestigious SABQA Gala in Lusaka, Zambia.

Eligibility

Who Can Enter?

The following organisations and individuals are eligible for nomination:

Businesses legally registered in any SADC member state

Government entities, parastatals and public institutions

NGOs and non-profit organisations with measurable community impact

Listed and unlisted companies across all sectors

Individual business leaders and entrepreneurs

Startups operating for at least 12 months

Exclusions

Businesses that have been deregistered or are in liquidation

Organisations under active criminal investigation

Prior-year winners in the same category (2-year cooldown)

SABQA staff, judges and their immediate family members

Self-Nominations

Businesses and individuals may nominate themselves. Third-party nominations are also welcome and encouraged.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a fee to nominate?

No — submitting a nomination is completely free of charge.

Can I nominate more than one company?

Yes. You may submit separate nominations for multiple organisations or individuals.

How long does the nomination period stay open?

Nominations open on 1 March 2026 and close on 30 June 2026.

How are winners selected?

Winners are determined by a combination of independent market research (60%) and public voting (40%).

When will I know if my nomination is shortlisted?

Shortlisted nominations are announced on 15 August 2026 via email and on our website.

Can international companies be nominated?

Yes, provided they have operations in at least one SADC member state.

Submit Your Nomination