Uber selected amongst “Coolest” brands again – double win at GenNext 2025
Uber is celebrating a milestone week of recognition, taking home two major honours at the 2025 Sunday Times GenNext Awards – Coolest Public Transport Brand for Uber and Coolest Food Delivery App for Uber Eats – marking another year of continued connection with South Africa’s youth.
Now in its 21st year, the Sunday Times GenNext Awards remain the country’s leading barometer of youth sentiment and brand affinity, tracking the preferences of South Africans aged 8 to 30. This year’s Decade of Dominance edition recognised the brands that have not only captured the hearts of young consumers in 2025, but have done so consistently over the past 10 years.
Uber’s back-to-back wins reaffirm its enduring appeal and relevance among young South Africans. Since first appearing in the GenNext rankings, both Uber and Uber Eats have repeatedly dominated their respective categories, reflecting the brands’ ability to evolve alongside the lifestyles, habits, and expectations of the next generation.
Deepesh Thomas, Uber General Manager for sub-Saharan Africa, said:
“For us, these awards are more than titles – they’re a reflection of trust, innovation, and the everyday impact we have on people’s lives. We’re honoured that South Africa’s youth continue to see Uber as part of how they move, eat, and live. Their recognition inspires us to keep building safer, more affordable and more reliable ways to connect communities. Last night we were proud to be included alongside brands like Nike, Nestle, Engen, Mr Price – brands South Africans feel are truly cool.”
The celebration comes just days after Uber Eats earned a Bronze Effie Award in the Transportation category at the 2025 Effie Awards South Africa for its “Uber Black: So good you’ll find a reason” campaign – a testament to Uber’s continued commitment to marketing effectiveness and creativity that drives real results.
The Effie Awards honour campaigns that demonstrate a powerful combination of strategy, creativity, and measurable business impact. Uber’s recognition positions it among South Africa’s most effective and innovative brands.
Ntsoaki Nsibanyoni, Uber Eats General Manager, sub-Saharan Africa, added:
“Winning at both the Effies and GenNext within the same week speaks volumes about what our teams have built – brands that not only resonate emotionally but deliver tangible value. It’s proof that when you put the consumer at the centre, you can achieve both love and effectiveness.”
As Uber marks more than a decade in South Africa, the brand continues to evolve – investing in local partnerships, empowering earners, and expanding access to reliable transport and delivery services across the country. These accolades reaffirm Uber’s place as one of South Africa’s most trusted, innovative, and youth-loved brands.
