Celebrating ‘Africa’s Champions of Storytelling: From Piers to Pages
The KwaZulu-Natal Tourism & Film Authority (TAFA) has announced an extension of the Call for Entries for the 12th annual Simon Mabhunu Sabela KZN Film & Television Awards. This extension gives filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals more time to submit their work and be part of KwaZulu-Natal’s premier celebration of film and television excellence.
Due to the overwhelming response on the number of submissions received on 28 March 2025, it is prudent to extend the call for entry to a new submission deadline of Friday, 04 April 2025. The awards, which recognise outstanding achievements in film, television, directing, screenwriting, acting, and production, continue to position KwaZulu-Natal as Africa’s leading film destination. Speaking on the importance of these awards, KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority Chief Operations Officer, Jackie Motsepe said “We recognise that many film makers and industry professionals need a little more time to finalise their entries, and we want to ensure that all creatives and production companies alike have a chance to be part of this prestigious platform celebrating excellence in film television”.
KwaZulu-Natal has a rich history of storytelling, and the Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards honour the exceptional talent bringing these stories to life. “We have seen incredible submissions so far, by extending the deadline, we are giving industry professionals more time to put forward their best work and be part of this prestigious recognition of excellence in African cinema”. Set under the theme “Africa’s Champions of Storytelling: From Piers to Pages”, the 2025 edition celebrates the journey of storytelling—how local narratives, rooted in history and heritage, are transformed into global cinematic masterpieces. Entries are open to filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals who are either born in KwaZulu-Natal or are permanent residents of the province.
Productions must meet the following key criteria:
• All entrants must be South African citizens or permanent residents.
• Only productions featuring key creative team members from KZN are eligible.
• Official co-productions will be accepted will be accepted only if certified by South Africa’s Competent Certification Authority.
Eligible content: Feature films, short films, student films, soapies, telenovelas, series,
• Broadcast and screening period: Productions must have been broadcast, distributed, or screened publicly between 29 March 2024 – 27 March 2025
• Submission deadline: Friday 04 April 2025 (23:59 for online submissions, 16:30 for physical submissions).
The 2025 Simon Mabhunu Sabela KZN Film & Television Awards will take place on 19 July 2025 in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. The nominees will be announced by the end of June 2025.
HOW TO ENTER
1. Download and complete the entry form from www.visitkznsa.com.
2. Submit via email to simonsabela@visitkznsa.com or deliver a physical copy to the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority offices.
3. Include a certified copy of the nominee’s SA ID and proof of KZN origin (proof of address or an affidavit for KZN-born applicants residing outside the province).
4. Ensure entries meet the required clip durations and provide links or files in acceptable formats (Hard Drive, USB, or non-expiring links).
For further information, submission guidelines, and category descriptions, visit www.visitkznsa.com