Winnie Ntshaba Leads the Return of the Royalty Soapie Awards 2026

The Royalty Soapie Awards are officially returning in March 2026, promising a glamorous evening where talent, creativity, and storytelling are celebrated. Actress and entrepreneur Winnie Ntshaba is once again at the forefront, guiding the event she founded and championing excellence in South African television.

Ntshaba launched the Royalty Soapie Awards in 2013 with a clear mission: to commend and celebrate acting excellence in the local soapie industry. Over the years, the awards have grown into one of South Africa’s most respected entertainment events, spotlighting the performers and creatives who bring the nation’s favourite stories to life.

Alongside the awards, Ntshaba also established The Royalty Foundation, an initiative created to uplift young people from disadvantaged communities. The foundation offers “underprivileged rural and township youth communities an introductory platform into the film and arts industry through our partnerships with production companies,” Ntshaba told Drum. Her passion for empowerment and storytelling is woven into everything the awards stand for.

South Africa’s soapie industry reaches more than 25 million viewers daily, making these shows a major part of the country’s entertainment culture. The Royalty Soapie Awards not only celebrate talent but also recognise the important role soapies play in sparking conversations, reflecting society, and shaping culture.

This year, the awards invite the best actors, crew members, producers, broadcasters, and production companies to submit their work across 28 award categories. These categories honour artistic performance, technical skill, creative direction, innovation, and the social impact of storytelling.

Winnie Ntshaba shared her excitement with Drum, saying, “This year’s theme pays tribute to the power of storytelling to influence generations. Our soapies don’t just entertain – they educate, provoke, inspire, and preserve memory.” As they enter their 8th season, Ntshaba says the goal remains focused on celebrating both artistry and its impact on communities.

“Our soapies reflect our communities, our triumphs, our struggles, and our dreams,” she told Drum. “They influence culture and unite households across the country.”

The theme for 2026, “Echoes of Tomorrow,” highlights the people behind the scenes who work tirelessly to bring these stories to life. Ntshaba added, “We call on all production houses across South Africa and the continent to submit their best work and stand among the industry’s finest.”

For the first time, the awards are expanding beyond South Africa. Ntshaba told Drum this step is meant to strengthen relationships with filmmakers across Africa. “This time around, we introduce a continental category, the Outstanding Pan-African Show, which aims to honour the most compelling soapies and telenovelas produced outside South Africa,” she said.

With nominations now open and Winnie Ntshaba leading the excitement, the countdown to one of 2026’s most anticipated entertainment nights has officially begun.