YOUNG Dineo Nxumalo of Port Natal School strutted the red carpet like a superstar at the 2025 Simon Mabhunu Sabela KZN Film & Television Awards at the ICC on Saturday.

The Grade Six learner at Port Natal School in Umbilo bagged the award for Best Newcomer Actress. The recognition was for her performance in Sent, marking a powerful moment for fresh talent in the industry. The 12-year-old uMlazi-born starlet attributes her success to the support of her parents, her school and an undying fire within herself. She mesmerised audiences as Mbali Biyela in the hit series Outlaws (2023).

The 2025 Simon Mabhunu Sabela KZN Film & Television Awards featured A-listers from the celebrity world, household names, and fresh talent alike from the film and TV industry.

A stalwart of the industry, Angus Gibson, was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his decades-long contribution to the growth and depth of South African storytelling. Known for his ground-breaking work on productions such as Yizo Yizo, Shaka iLembe, and numerous documentary features, Gibson has spent decades shaping the visual narrative of South Africa through an authentic and uncompromising lens.

Accepting the honour, Gibson reflected: “As Bomb Productions, whenever we tell a story, we want the characters that we depict to recognise themselves. For the last 12 years, we have been immersed in a Zulu world, so it is from the KZN audience that we most want approval. This award is an affirmation that makes me very happy.”

Topping the winners’ list was Disaster Holiday, produced by Rethabile Ramaphakela, which scooped four major awards, ie Best Pan African Film, Best Feature Film, Best Production Design, and Best Use of KZN as a filming location.

Jackie Motsepe, chief operations officer at the KZN Tourism and Film Authority, shared, “It was a night that affirmed the power of African storytelling. From newcomers to legends, our creatives are shaping culture and inspiring futures. We’re proud to see KZN emerging as a strong player on the African and global film map. The Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards continue to honour excellence while driving the industry forward.”

On the TV front, Kwenzokuhle Ngcobo took home the Best Actor prize for his role in Scandal, while Nqobile Magwaza bagged Best Actress for her performance in Smoke and Mirrors. In film, Ntando Mncube (Themba) and Sibongiseni Shezi (Umjolo: The Gone Girl) scooped the top acting awards.

The awards were bestowed upon 25 deserving winners, ie actors, producers, directors, etc.

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