Nando’s Opens 2026 Hot Young Designer Search
Nando’s Opens 2026 Hot Young Designer Search. Nando’s has opened applications for the 2026 edition of its Hot Young Designer programme, inviting emerging South African creatives to submit original lighting concepts as part of the national design accelerator initiative.
Now in its sixth edition, the programme has become one of South Africa’s recognised platforms for developing young design talent, providing mentorship, business support, industry exposure, and commercial opportunities to emerging creatives.
Since its launch in 2016, the initiative has supported a number of local designers who have gone on to establish businesses and gain international recognition within the design industry.
For the 2026 competition, entrants are required to design a sculptural linear light intended for installation in Nando’s restaurants around the world. The brief encourages participants to experiment with texture, colour, materials, and craftsmanship while also considering transportability and practical installation requirements.
According to the competition guidelines, entries may not exceed 1.4 metres in length or weigh more than 28 kilograms. Designers are also encouraged to incorporate handcrafted details developed in collaboration with local artisans.
The programme will take place in three phases, beginning with the open application process. Shortlisted finalists will then move on to prototype development before a final winner is selected.
The winning designer will receive tailored business support that includes mentorship, showcasing opportunities, market access, and engagement with established South African designer makers.
Thabisa Mjo of Mash T. Design, one of the programme’s inaugural winners in 2016, previously described the initiative as transformative for her career and business development.
The programme is managed on behalf of Nando’s by Clout/SA. Tracy Lynch, creative director at Clout/SA, said the platform was designed to connect South African designers with meaningful commercial opportunities both locally and internationally.
Lynch said Clout/SA operates as a business to business market maker that links South African designers and makers with commercial opportunities across different markets.
Applications for the 2026 edition close on 16 June 2026. Emerging designers from across South Africa can submit their entries through the official competition microsite.
The Hot Young Designer programme continues to position South African design talent within commercial and global creative spaces while encouraging collaboration between young creatives, manufacturers, and artisan communities across the country today.
