The Siyabakhumbula Awards are here

Remembering legends and celebrating change makers at the Siyabakhumbula Awards

The Siyabakhumbula Awards, now in their 15th year, continue their proud tradition of celebrating individuals who have made a lasting impact on their communities and fields of work.

True to its name, Siyabakhumbula, meaning “we remember them”, the Awards honour both those who have passed on and living change makers whose dedication and achievements continue to inspire.

Since 2010, the platform has posthumously recognized outstanding individuals whose remarkable contributions might otherwise fade from public memory, while also shining a spotlight on contemporary figures shaping South Africa’s present and future.

This year’s theme, “People forget what they should remember, and remember what they should forget,” reflects the Awards’ ongoing mission to ensure that the legacies of past trailblazers are preserved while celebrating those who continue to make a difference today.

Founder of the Siyabakhumbula Awards, renowned poet and activist Mr. Mzwakhe Mbuli, reflected on the significance of the initiative.

“The Siyabakhumbula Awards exist to honour those who made remarkable contributions during their lifetimes and have passed, while also celebrating those who continue to make a meaningful impact today.

Over the past 15 years, this platform has grown into a significant cultural institution, a space where we remember, recognize, and pay tribute to the individuals shaping our communities, our culture, and our nation,” said Mr. Mbuli.

Mr. Mbuli further emphasized that the journey to immortalize legacies and honour contemporary contributions is ongoing, with each edition of the Awards growing in stature and impact.

The 2025 Siyabakhumbula Awards will posthumously recognise a remarkable group of icons whose contributions shaped South Africa’s cultural, sporting, and social landscape. Honourees include:

  • Bhodloza Nzimande
  • Don Mattera
  • Jacob “Baby Jake” Matlala
  • Gloria Bosman
  • Clive Barker
  • Vuyo Mokoena
  • Thandie Klaasen
  • John Lesiba “Shoes” Moshoeu
  • Alan Toweel
  • Dorothy Masuku
  • Sammy Malete
  • “Sipho Jambo” Johnson
  • Junald Ahmed

In addition, the Awards will honour living individuals who are actively making a difference in their communities, highlighting the ongoing work of those dedicated to social change, arts, sports, and public service.

These honourees demonstrate that the spirit of Siyabakhumbula is as much about recognizing current contributions as it is about preserving history.

The 2025 ceremony will be hosted at the Gold Rush Dome, on 4 October 2025, bringing together community leaders, artists, sports figures, and members of the media to pay tribute to both past legends and present-day heroes whose work continues to shape South Africa’s collective memory.

The Siyabakhumbula Awards remain a powerful reminder that while lives may end, legacies endure.

Through this platform, South Africa ensures that its heroes past and present are remembered, celebrated, and honoured with dignity.

For more information or to arrange for an interview, please contact Akhona Mtshewu on 062 049 4361 or email amtshewu84@gmail.com

 

PUBLISHED BY DK Expressions®