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Number 1 Mageu Art Design Winner Ceremony
A celebration of Mzansi creativity: The Be Number 1 art challenge winners
On 20 January 2026, the RCL FOODS National Office came alive with colour, movement, and creative energy as the winners of the Be Number 1 Art Challenge were officially announced.
The event brought together agency partners, media, internal teams, and the people who helped bring the campaign to life. A shared moment of celebration that reflected the spirit of collaboration behind the initiative. Guests were entertained by a powerful performance by the Durban Dance Royal, whose dynamic choreography set the tone for a morning rooted in culture, expression, and pride.
The Be Number 1 Art Challenge was created by Number 1 Mageu as a way to give back to the communities that have supported the brand for generations. More than a competition, it was an invitation asking South African creatives to share how they see progress, culture, and community, and allowing consumers to help decide how the brand shows up on shelf.
Running from October to December 2025, the campaign received an incredible response. Over 60 000 entries and votes were submitted by South Africans across the country, highlighting both the depth of creative talent in Mzansi and the strong emotional connection people have with the Number 1 brand.
The overall winner, Wonderboy Gumede, a multidisciplinary artist from Chesterville in Durban, took first place with his artwork Afrogeu Spirit. Drawing on his childhood, storytelling, and the influence of 1990s Mzansi culture, his design reflects perseverance, imagination, and staying rooted while moving forward. Afrogeu Spirit will appear on the next Number 1 Mageu Original pack — turning an everyday product into a public showcase of local creativity.
Wonderboy was awarded:
- An Apple MacBook Air 15-inch valued at R27 000
- A two-year Adobe subscription valued at R31 200
- A cash prize of R10 000
Second place went to Arthur Mahlangu from Mamelodi, whose bold, contemporary artwork celebrates South African diversity by capturing everyday life across cities, townships, and rural spaces. His artwork “The Our Mzansi” will also feature on the Number 1 Packaging. Arthur received:
- An Apple iPad Pro M4 11-inch valued at R20 000
- An Apple Pencil valued at R3 600
- A cash prize of R5 000
Third place was awarded to Vela Njeke, a visual storyteller whose work explores heritage, identity, and forward movement through modern design. Vela received a cash prize of R5 000.
By placing the power of choice in the hands of the public, Number 1 enabled both creators and consumers to shape the brand together. Designers gained visibility and recognition, while loyal customers played a direct role in choosing the artwork they wanted to see represent them. The winning packs will roll out into stores in the coming months and be a visible expression of creativity, community, and connection. In line with RCL FOODS’ purpose, We Grow What Matters, the Be Number 1 Art Challenge stands as a reminder that when brands invest in people, culture grows with them.
