MiniBoss Business School Puts South Africa on the Map at Global Business Week 2025 in the Maldives

South Africa’s entrepreneurial talent shone brightly on the world stage this past week as MiniBoss Business School Johannesburg scooped several prestigious awards at the 25th Global Business Week (GBW) and Startup World Cup Championship (SWCC), held in the Maldives from 7–15 July 2025.

The annual GBW event, one of the largest global business networking and innovation forums, drew participants from more than 35 countries. Delegates engaged in thought-provoking discussions, sustainable development forums, and startup showcases aimed at shaping the future of business and entrepreneurship.

Representing South Africa with excellence, MiniBoss Business School Johannesburg, based in Sandton, walked away with multiple accolades in recognition of their students’ innovation, leadership, and commitment to sustainable solutions.

Teams Win Big at SDG Awards

Among the standout achievements, three MiniBoss SA teams – Danger Escape, Luxury Experience, and Aura Media Group & Collective, won United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Awards, recognising their innovative business solutions to global challenges.

In addition, TeamBeWise earned a participation certificate, further demonstrating the breadth of young talent cultivated at the school.

Individual Achievements Recognised
It wasn’t just the teams that excelled. Several MiniBoss Johannesburg leaders also received special honours: Wendy Silinyana, Director and Franchisee, was named Director of the Year.
Mamela Luthuli received the Boss Global Award of the Year for her entrepreneurial impact.
Naomi Bonteke was honoured as Mother of the Year.
Toni Gumede and Wendy Silinyana were appointed as Global Jury Members.
Hendrina Khanyile delivered a keynote address at the Global Boss Forum, sharing insights with an international audience.

“This achievement reaffirms what we’ve always believed , that our students are capable of competing and winning on the global stage,” said Ms. Silinyana. “We are incredibly proud of the dedication and creativity they brought to the Maldives.”

South Africa’s Future Entrepreneurs Step Up
The South African delegation included two MiniBoss student teams from Johannesburg and two young adult teams from the soon-to-be-launched BigBoss Business School. Together, they competed in categories such as Best Commercial Startup (SIFE Award), Best Social Startup (SAGE Award), and the Green Planet for Startups Award, which celebrates environmentally friendly ventures.

These competitors represented both the MiniBoss Junior League (ages 6–18) and the BigBoss Senior League (18+), reflecting a multi-generational approach to entrepreneurship education.

About MiniBoss Business School
Founded in 2023 in Johannesburg, MiniBoss Business School is part of the global MiniBoss Business School International Network, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. With 73 branches worldwide, as a Weekend Extra-Curriculum, the programme offers an 8-level entrepreneurship curriculum designed to develop business acumen, leadership, and creativity among young learners, ultimately preparing them for global impact.

“Our mission is to nurture a generation of visionary leaders who can build and sustain family wealth and contribute meaningfully to the economy,” added Silinyana.