TZANEEN – The National Heritage Council (NHC) is calling for nominations for the 2025 Golden Shield Heritage Awards (GOSHA), which recognises excellence and innovation in preserving South Africa’s diverse heritage.

With a new deadline of August 15, this year’s event promises to be an exciting celebration of the nation’s cultural treasures.

This extension provides additional opportunities for those dedicated to preserving and promoting South Africa’s rich and diverse heritage to put forward their nominations.

The Golden Shield Heritage Awards recognise outstanding research, strategies, and globally accepted best practices that safeguard heritage for present and future generations. Established over a decade ago, the awards address the need for formal recognition of excellence and innovation in the heritage and cultural sector, promoting nation-building, pride, and transformation within the heritage landscape.

For the first time, the awards ceremony will be hosted in Mpumalanga’s capital, Mbombela, after two consecutive years in the Western Cape.

The 2025 award categories include:

• National Living Treasure
• Local Government Commitment
• Preferred Heritage Destination
• Young Heritage Activist
• Voice of Heritage
• Heritage Journalism
• Corporate Heritage Management
• Liberation Heritage Steward
• Heritage Education
• Heritage Social Media Influencer

“We recognise the importance of these awards in honouring those who selflessly contribute to preserving our nation’s cultural legacy,” said Dr Thabo Manetsi, CEO of the NHC. “By extending the deadline, we hope to encourage even more nominations and ensure that all deserving candidates have the chance to be recognised for their invaluable contributions.”

How to nominate:
• Download the nomination form here
• Complete the form based on the eligibility criteria
• Submit the completed form with supporting documents by 15 August 2025 to gosha@nhc.org.za

For media enquiries, email: communications@nhc.org.za or call 012 748 3910.