Celebrating 20 years of honouring storytellers

Coinciding with heritage month, the South African Literary Awards (SALA) celebrate their 20th anniversary this September.

The milestone highlights how literature continues to shape and preserve South Africa’s cultural identity.

This year, over 30 adjudicators will gather for a final adjudication convention, to select nominees from the overwhelming number of submissions received for the 20th anniversary call.

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The shortlist will be revealed at the awards ceremony on November 7, which also marks the 34th anniversary of International African Writers’ Day.

Since 2005, SALA has honoured more than 300 writers, whose work reflects South Africa’s struggles, triumphs, and aspirations.

The awards recognise excellence across all 11 official languages, embracing diversity and inclusivity, while celebrating both new voices and literary giants.

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Professor Zodwa Motsa, chairperson of the SALA Advisory Board, said: “This 20-year milestone is not just a celebration of SALA, but of the countless voices that have carried our nation’s stories, memories, and dreams onto the page. Literature is a living heritage.”

Heritage month underscores this connection. For Motsa, literature stands at the heart of South Africa’s living heritage, reminding us that identity is shared across languages, cultures, and generationsLooking ahead, SALA will host events, readings, and dialogues throughout the anniversary year, reaffirming its role as a platform for creativity and unity.

“As we celebrate 20 years, we look to the future with renewed energy,” said executive director and founder Morakabe Raks Seakhoa, adding that the SALA will continue to be a home for writers, readers, and communities who believe in the power of the written word to unite, heal, and inspire.

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