The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) has officially launched the call for nominations for the National Arts and Culture Awards (NACA) – a prestigious celebration of excellence across South Africa’s cultural and creative sectors.
The awards recognise and honour outstanding contributions from artists, creatives, and cultural practitioners, showcasing their vital role in nation-building and their power to inspire both local and global audiences.
The nomination process, along with the official rules and guidelines, is now live and accessible on the DSAC website: www.naca.dsac.gov.za.
The department has undertaken a meticulous and inclusive process to develop the NACA framework, ensuring that the awards reflect fairness, transparency, and broad representation across the sector. By engaging key stakeholders, the department has crafted criteria that accurately capture the merit and impact of nominees’ work.
The NACA awards provide a unique platform for South Africans to celebrate the creativity, wisdom, and resilience of the arts community – acknowledging its profound influence on society and its ability to shape a vibrant cultural legacy.
“These awards play a vital role in the creative industry by recognising excellence, boosting morale, inspiring, and creating a vibrant nation, and promoting a culture of innovation,” stated Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie. “They also enhance the reputation of winners and organisations, attracting new opportunities and collaborations. Ultimately, these awards foster a sense of community and inspiration within the creative field whilst also benchmarking ourselves against the best.”
The NACA offers significant opportunities for South Africa’s creative sector, including:
- A Premier Awards Platform – Connecting creatives with like-minded peers, sponsors, and audiences to foster meaningful collaborations and long-term partnerships.
- Elevated Visibility – Winners gain increased exposure, media attention, and opportunities to attract sponsors while enhancing their global marketability.
The NACA features seven categories and thirty awards, recognising excellence across the arts and culture landscape.
To ensure fairness and credibility, an independent Nomination Review Committee – comprising industry experts – will evaluate submissions alongside an appointed auditing firm, safeguarding the awards’ integrity through rigorous checks and balances.
For full details on eligibility, criteria, and submission requirements, visit the official website: www.naca.dsac.gov.za.
Closing date for nominations: 21 May 2025 at 17:00.
Compiled by Warren Hawkins
