Applications are open for the 2026 Nando’s Hot Young Designer talent search

Calling all young Jozi creatives and South African design mavericks: your chance to step into the global spotlight has arrived. The biannual Nando’s Hot Young Designer (HYD) talent search is officially back for its sixth edition, and the stakes are higher than ever.

If you are a young designer ready to scale your business and see your work featured in restaurants from Rosebank to London, it’s time to get sketching.

The challenge: Light up the room

For the 2026 edition, Nando's is focusing on illumination. Entrants are being challenged to design a striking, functional linear light that could hang above a long table or counter in any Nando’s restaurant worldwide.

Here is what the judges are looking for:

• The look: Unique combinations of materials, texture, and colour. Sculptural or crafted elements are highly encouraged.
• The collab: Concepts that incorporate handmade details created in collaboration with local crafters will score major points.
• The logistics: It’s not just about aesthetics; longevity, transportability, and installation are vital. The final piece must be no longer than 1.4 meters and weigh under 28kg.

A proven career accelerator

Managed by Clout/SA, a business-to-business market maker that bridges the gap between local designers and global commercial opportunities, the HYD talent search is much more than a trophy on a shelf. It is a massive career accelerator.

Past winners include design royalty Thabisa Mjo of Mash T. Design, who won the inaugural competition in 2016. Mjo has described the platform as a total game-changer that "changed the trajectory of my entire life."

"Clout/SA celebrates the vision and vitality of South African design," says Tracy Lynch, Creative Director of Clout/SA. "We celebrate the creative pulse of South African design by sharing our curated collections of furniture, lighting, and décor with clients and collaborators around the world."

How the competition works

The 2026 search will unfold across three distinct phases:

1. Application: Aspiring designer-makers submit their initial concepts online.
2. Shortlist: Finalists are chosen to develop physical prototypes of their designs.
3. The Finale: The overall winner is selected and receives a tailored support programme, including mentorship, market access, and global showcasing opportunities.

How to enter

Think you have what it takes to design the next global Nando's feature piece? Don't wait on this one.

• Deadline: Entries close on 16 June 2026.
• Where to enter: Submit your designs online via the official microsite at www.hotyoungdesigner.com.
• Stay updated: Follow @nandos_hyd on Instagram for inspiration and updates.