Nominate achievers whose impact is far-reaching

The Investec Jewish Achiever Awards recognise more than success alone. They celebrate individuals whose accomplishments have made a lasting impact on South Africa, the Jewish community, and beyond. 

With nominations now open for the 2026 awards, organisers are encouraging the public to think broadly about who deserves recognition. 

The Investec Professional Excellence Award celebrates those at the pinnacle of their chosen profession. Whether in medicine, law, academia, technology, engineering, or another field, nominees should have demonstrated innovation, leadership, and national recognition while setting a benchmark for professional excellence. 

Business success remains a cornerstone of the awards, but the judges are looking beyond financial performance. The Investec Business Leadership Award recognises those whose vision, integrity, and strategic leadership have built organisations that create lasting value and inspire others. The Investec Business Icon Award honours individuals whose contribution to South African business has stood the test of time, earning them iconic status. 

Entrepreneurship is celebrated through the Eric Ellerine Entrepreneur Award, which recognises people who have turned bold ideas into thriving enterprises. Judges will look for innovation, resilience, and the ability to create economic opportunity while demonstrating the courage to take calculated risks and build something enduring. 

The Europcar Women in Leadership Award recognises exceptional women who have shaped business, public life, philanthropy, academia, the arts, or the broader South African community. It celebrates women whose achievements have opened doors, inspired others, and made a meaningful difference through their influence and example. 

Young leaders are encouraged to come to the fore through the Ichikowitz Family Foundation Rising Star Award. It recognises individuals aged 35 years or younger who have already demonstrated extraordinary promise and whose contributions are making a significant impact early in their careers. 

Not all achievements are measured in commercial success. The Bertie Lubner Humanitarian Award in Honour of Chief Rabbi Cyril Harris honours individuals, Jewish or non-Jewish, whose compassion and service have transformed lives and strengthened South African society through humanitarian work and a commitment to the well-being of others. 

Similarly, the Mann Made Community Service Award recognises dedication to strengthening the South African Jewish community. It honours individuals whose leadership, volunteerism, and commitment have enriched communal life and helped build a stronger future for generations to come. 

Excellence also takes creative and intellectual forms. The Art, Sport, Science, and Culture Award celebrates people who have distinguished themselves in fields ranging from scientific research and innovation to artistic achievement, sporting excellence, and cultural contribution, bringing pride to both the Jewish community and South Africa. 

The highest honour is the Lifetime Achievement Award in Honour of Helen Suzman. It goes to the individual whose sustained contribution over many years has left an enduring legacy through exceptional leadership, service, and achievement. 

Across every category, the awards seek individuals or groups whose accomplishments have been matched by integrity, vision, and a commitment to making a positive difference. Whether leading companies, advancing knowledge, serving communities, creating opportunities, or inspiring others, the common thread is lasting impact. 

The organisers encourage nominations that reflect the breadth of South African Jewish achievement, ensuring that those who shape lives, industries, and communities receive the recognition they deserve.