The 2021 results of the survey were conducted by Yellowwood, who merged with specialist youth agency HDI Youth Consultancy. The results are particularly relevant to brands and advertisers, according to the event.

The Sunday Times GenNext youth marketing online webinar series, digital activations and online awards attract the attendance of South Africa's leading business minds and marketers. The results will showcase which brands and personalities the youth identify with the most providing important insight to brands and marketers around the world.

"To say that I'm honoured and beyond excited to be 2021's GenNext Awards host is an understatement," says Zanele. "When I watched the awards live two years ago, I remember saying to myself that I want to see myself on a stage like this one day; and the fact that it has now materialised is crazy and genuinely means the world to me."

Because of the third wave of the Covid-19 coronavirus, the ceremony will take place online.

Zanele adds that the GenNext Awards remain one of the only platforms that do the research and truly communicate to brands about what the youth wants.

"This ceremony actually listens to the audience. It's so important for the future of South Africa to be heard and it's incredible that 17 years later, GenNext is still doing such a stellar job," concludes Zanele.

Individuals are encouraged to watch the 2021 Sunday Times GenNext Awards live on Thursday, 9 September at 10:00 on YouTube.

For more information, visit www.arenaevents.africa