The countdown has officially begun for the third National Film & TV Awards South Africa (NFTA SA) — and this year’s lineup of nominees promises an unforgettable celebration of South African talent.
From the big screen to television, the country’s favourite stars are going head-to-head for top honours. The glitzy awards ceremony will take place at the South African State Theatre on Saturday, 22 November, just two days after public voting closes.
The excitement is already building as some of the country’s most beloved actresses, including Khanyi Mbau, Connie Ferguson, and Lerato Mvelase, dominate the nominations list.
Kabelo Ndonyane, the National Film Academy’s Head of Partnerships, expressed his excitement about this year’s celebration.
“We are excited to ensure that the Academy celebrates icons who have paved the way,” he said. “As well as a shortlist of fantastic nominees, we are pleased to announce that our homegrown icons will be honoured and celebrated globally for their achievements, which laid the foundation for the thriving film and television industry we see in South Africa today.”
This year’s nominees showcase the diversity and creativity of local storytelling — from the high-stakes drama of Kings of Joburg to the emotional depth of Ithonga and the comedic charm of Meet the Khumalos.
Here are some of the exciting nominations announced:
Best Actress in a Film (sponsored by Kryolan South Africa)
- Khanyi Mbau – Meet The Khumalos
- Ayanda Borotho – Meet The Khumalos
- Lunathi Mampofu – Disaster Holiday
- Londeka Sishi – Umjolo: There Is No Cure
- Nirvana Nokwe-Mseleku – Umjolo: My Beginnings, My End!
Best Actress in a TV Series (sponsored by Kryolan South Africa)
- Connie Ferguson – Kings Of Joburg
- Lerato Mvelase – Marked
- Gail Mabalane – Unseen
- Kgomotso Christopher – Fatal Seduction
- Nelisiwe Sibiya – Ithonga
Best Supporting Actress in a Film (sponsored by Native Child)
- Nandipha Khubone – Meet The Khumalos
- Tina Jaxa – Disaster Holiday
- Rosemary Zimu – Soft Love
- Sandra Vaughn – Semi-Soeter
Best Scripted TV Series (sponsored by Dechavel Watches)
- Marked (Netflix)
- Adulting (Showmax)
- Shaka iLembe (Mzansi Magic)
- Kings Of Joburg (Netflix)
- Ithonga (Mzansi Magic)
Best Male TV Personality
- Lawrence Maleka – Friends Of Amstel
- Katlego Maboe – Deal Or No Deal
- Lasizwe Dambuza – Awkward Dates
- Smash Afrika – Big Brother Mzansi
With so many fan favourites in the mix, this year’s National Film & TV Awards promises to be one of the most thrilling yet — a true celebration of South Africa’s cinematic excellence and the stars who keep viewers glued to their screens.
