First stop JHB, next London: SA’s NextGen Strategy Competition winner shares her experience

The first phase of the competition took place in local countries. Finalists were challenged to think critically as they undertook both group and individual challenges which include building one’s purpose and client relationships. In the second phase of the competition, the country winners were invited to attend the global final, which was held in London, United Kingdom from 20 – 22 November 2022. 

Nonjabulo Khoza, the winner of the South African arm of the competition, who at the time of participating was a third-year commerce and accounting student at the University of Johannesburg, travelled to London as one of 23 global competition finalists. She briefly spoke to us about her experience there.

The South African leg of the competition which took place over two days had 24 finalists participate in group work on case study analysis that demonstrated EY’s global business strategy, team and leadership. 

The finalists were welcomed by a senior regional Strategy and Transactions partner who gave them an in-depth background on the Strategy and Transactions service line, the work we do and the types of clients the country office works with, as well as highlighting our mission of Building a Better Working World. 

Finalists partake in group exercises with a SaT coach and present their group presentation to a panel of judges. The final leg of the competition which saw Nonjabulo winning the competition, was an individual task where she presented to the judging panel her motivation in participating in this programme and why she should win 1st prize. 

“Bringing 23 young ladies from 22 different countries, having them together in one room and there only being laughter, love and respect is something I did not think I would get to experience in my lifetime, let alone in my 20s,” she eagerly relays.

The NextGen Women competition exposes future leaders to the opportunity to network with like-minded women and EY Strategy and Transactions leaders working in a global organisation to differentiate themselves from other graduates in an increasingly competitive job market. By entering the competition, the finalists make meaningful connections amongst themselves and EY leadership that benefit their career advancement.

“Every day of the London leg of the competition was a chance to network and build relations among each other, the experience gives one a chance to grow and develop for a better working world for us!” Nonjabulo said. 

In its third year, the NextGen Women competition is aimed at investing in the development of future female leaders. EY is committed to motivating exceptional female talent to enter careers they did not think possible. Our purpose is centred around fostering a community where individuals can learn, be challenged, develop relationships to last a lifetime and build a better working world.

“I loved every moment of being in London, I loved learning about the other ladies, I loved learning more about EY and the different journeys leaders have taken to get to where they are today, the opportunities are endless and I’m very excited for what the future holds for me – hopefully in EY!” she concluded. 

Click here to view highlights of the EY NextGen Women 2022.

Learn more about the EY NextGen Women.