National Film and Tv Awards celebrate SA’s finest

The National Film and TV Awards South Africa returned to the State Opera Theatre in Pretoria for its third annual edition, bringing the capital city to life with a night dedicated to celebrating the country’s most accomplished and promising talent in film and TV.

From the moment the lights dimmed and the broadcast on VooVix TV began, it was clear that this year’s edition would deliver moments that would linger in the national memory long after the final award was handed out.

Hosted by renowned TV personality Samkelo, the evening unfolded with captivating performances and unexpected appearances that kept the audience enthralled.

Among the many highlights that shaped the energy of the night, none stood out more profoundly than the presentation of the NFTA Lifetime Achievement Award 2025 to the legendary Dr John Kani.

As one of South Africa’s most celebrated figures in theatre, film, and global storytelling, Kani has long been admired for his ability to bring truth, humanity, and depth to every stage and screen he touches.

The audience rose to its feet in a sustained ovation the moment his name was called, acknowledging not only a career of extraordinary influence but also a lifetime dedicated to advancing the arts and inspiring generations. When he stepped to the podium, his acceptance speech became a defining moment of the entire event.

He expressed immense gratitude, calling the award one of the greatest honours of his life, and spoke of the transformative power of young actors rising in the nation. In his words, every emerging performer carries the potential to change the world, and he urged them to continue believing in their craft, to create fearlessly, and to push forward even when the path becomes difficult. His message resonated deeply, echoing throughout the hall and leaving a sense of renewed purpose among the attendees.

The ceremony also paid tribute to four other influential pillars of South African entertainment, each receiving the Outstanding Contribution to Film and TV Award.

Leon Schuster, Alfred Ntombela, Sello Maake KaNcube, and Dr Jerry Mofokeng were honoured for their decades of remarkable impact on the industry.

The awards themselves celebrated a diverse array of performers, filmmakers, and creators whose work defined excellence in their respective categories.

Zenande Mfenyana claimed the award for Best Actress in a TV Series for her role in Inimba, while Francois Jacobs earned Best Supporting Actor in a Film for Khaki Fever.

The Best Newcomer award went to Thandolwethu Zondi for the first season of GO!, marking him as a rising star to watch. Shaka iLembe continued its dominant presence in the entertainment landscape, winning Best Scripted TV Series and contributing to wins for both Wiseman Mncube and Zamani Mbatha in the Outstanding Performance category.

Desiree Markgraaff and Nomzamo Mbatha were recognised for their exceptional production work on the same series, reinforcing the impact the show has made on audiences.

Londie London captured the award for Best Female TV Personality for her role on The Real Housewives of Durban, a show that also secured the title of Best Entertainment Show.

Devi Govender’s polished and confident hosting on The Devi Show earned her Best TV Presenter, while Celeste Ntuli’s sharp comedic brilliance saw her win Best Comedian.

Big Brother Mzansi claimed the award for Best Competition Show, and the feature film The Heart is a muscle was honoured as Best Feature Film, with Keenan Arrison also winning Best Actor in a Film for his performance in it.

In the realm of factual and reality storytelling, Young, Famous and African won Best Non-Scripted TV Series, while the documentary Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey was recognised as Best Documentary.

Binnelanders secured the award for Best Afrikaans TV Series, and the Open Chats Podcast earned the title of Best Podcast. Showmax was named Best Television or Streaming Network, acknowledging its expanding influence across South African viewing audiences.

Clint Brink won Best Actor in a TV Series for Kings of Jo’burg, while Angela Sithole was honoured as Best Supporting Actress in a TV Series for Empini. Loren Loubser was recognised as Best Supporting Actress in a Film for her role in The Heart is a muscle.

Angus Gibson won Best Director for his work on Shaka iLembe, and Sweet Guluva earned the distinction of Best Male TV Personality.

Meet the Khumalos was named Best African International Film, representing South African filmmaking on the global stage. Quizzical Pictures won Best Production Company, highlighting its continued delivery of high-quality storytelling.

As the evening concluded, the significance of the awards once again became evident.

“The event stands as a testament to the creative excellence and vibrant talent that define the South African entertainment industry. Each year, it brings together creators and audiences in a shared celebration of storytelling, culture, and national pride. With millions of fans following the work of these artists, the NFTAs continue to honour those who shape the nation’s cultural narrative and inspire future generations to dream boldly and create fearlessly,” said Kabelo Ndonyane, head of Partnerships, National Film and TV Awards (South Africa).

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