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, says the Awards.
Since 2010, the platform has aim to posthumously recognised 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, adds the Awards.
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, says the Awards.
"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, recognise and pay tribute to the individuals shaping our communities, our culture and our nation," says Mzwakhe Mbuli, Poet, Activist and Founder of the Siyabakhumbula Awards, refelcting on the significance of the initiative.
Mr. Mbuli further emphasises that the journey to immortalise legacies and honour contemporary contributions is ongoing, with each edition of the Siyabakhumbula Awards growing in stature and impact, says the Awards.
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, and
- Junald Ahmed.
In addition, the Siyabakhumbula Awards aims to 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 recognising current contributions as it is about preserving history.
The 2025 ceremony is hosted at the Gold Rush Dome, on Saturday, 4 October, aiming to bring 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, says the Awards.
The Siyabakhumbula Awards aims to remain a powerful reminder that while lives may end, legacies endure. Through this platform, South Africa can ensure that its heroes past and present are remembered, celebrated and honoured with dignity, concludes the Awards.
For more information, visit www.siyabakhumbulaawards.co.za.
*Image courtesy of www.siyabakhumbulaawards.co.za.