Mokena Makeka, 33, who graduated with a distinction in architecture and founded his own business mere months after completing his studies, won the top prize in the Design category of the Johnnie Walker® Celebrating Strides Awards 2010.
Makeka, whose current project is the redesign of Cape Town Station for the new public transport system, has decided to put his R125 000 prize towards the establishment of the Academy for leadership and Creative Excellence (ACE).

He says he an academy like ACE is essential to develop a creative sector in order to meet the challenges of a development state.
"ACE will nurture creative excellence in architecture, art, dance, theatre, sculpture, music, entrepreneurship, and leadership. It will provide a permanent platform to foster the arts. It will also act as a springboard and incubator for talent and as a bridge between segregated communities.

"My full vision is to create a network of Academies across Africa in which mediocrity is rejected, excellence is rewarded and the creativity is rightfully located as a viable cultural production and a critical tool for the leaders of tomorrow.

"These Academies are urban condensers which will nurture creatives in places where dreams are needed most. We might advance through science - but through art, we prosper and discover our divine purpose."
Makeka was one of 12 finalists - in four categories including design, entrepreneurship, environment and the arts - chosen for the success they achieved in their various fields.