The Simon “Mabhunu” Sabela KZN Film and Television Awards have expanded their category line-up for 2026, introducing eight new awards that will broaden recognition across television production and technical disciplines as the countdown continues to the 10 July entry deadline.
Film and television practitioners across South Africa are being encouraged to submit their work before entries close on 10 July 2026. With approximately 34 categories spanning film, television, documentary, student productions and technical excellence, this year’s awards programme offers more opportunities than ever before for both established professionals and emerging talent to gain industry recognition through KwaZulu-Natal’s flagship film and television awards programme.
Presented by the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority, the awards have introduced eight new categories for 2026. These include four technical awards – Best Production Design, Best Sound Design, Best Makeup and Best Wardrobe – and four television awards – Best Director (Television), Best Telenovela/Soapie, Best Made for TV Film and Best Drama Series.
Eight new categories reflect industry growth
The additions represent one of the most significant category expansions in the history of the awards and reflect the continued growth and professionalisation of South Africa’s film and television industry. More importantly, they acknowledge the broad range of professionals whose contributions shape successful productions.
From production design and sound design to makeup and wardrobe, technical excellence increasingly plays a defining role in the success of film and television projects. The introduction of dedicated technical categories seeks to elevate these professions while encouraging greater appreciation for the expertise that exists behind the scenes.
The expansion of television categories is equally significant. As South Africa’s television sector continues to grow, generating employment and creating opportunities for writers, performers, directors and production crews, the awards are evolving to recognise excellence across the medium’s most important formats.
Recognising the full production team
KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority Interim Chief Executive Officer Sibusiso Gumbi said the category expansion demonstrates the Authority’s commitment to ensuring that the awards remain responsive to industry growth while creating opportunities for broader participation.
“The Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards continue to evolve alongside the industry they serve. As productions become more sophisticated and specialised, it is important that our recognition platforms acknowledge the full spectrum of talent and expertise that contribute to successful productions. These new categories ensure that more professionals across the value chain receive the recognition they deserve,” said Gumbi.
He added that the awards are designed not only to celebrate achievement but also to encourage excellence and inspire future generations of storytellers.
“The awards recognise both established professionals and emerging talent. Recognition can be transformative for careers, productions and businesses. It creates visibility, encourages innovation and contributes to the long-term growth of the industry.”
Industry recognition matters
For acclaimed filmmaker Dr Eubulus Timothy, founder of Trinity Pictures, member of the Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards Steering Committee and recent recipient of the Filmmaker of the Year Award at the Durban Tourism Business Awards, the category expansion reflects an industry that is becoming increasingly mature and collaborative.
“The introduction of these categories reflects the evolution of the industry itself. Film and television production today is more sophisticated than ever before and success depends on a broad network of creative and technical professionals working together. These awards recognise that reality and ensure that excellence is celebrated wherever it exists within the production process,” said Timothy.
He added that recognition remains an important catalyst for professional growth.
“When people are recognised for their work, it creates momentum. It inspires practitioners to continue pushing creative boundaries, investing in their skills and striving for excellence.”
A platform for career growth
The value of the awards is perhaps best reflected in the experiences of previous winners.
Filmmaker Lindani Mbense, winner of the 2025 Simon Mabhunu Sabela Award for Best Documentary Feature for Dr Mbongeni Ngema: This Is My Story, said the awards continue to provide an important platform for recognising excellence and encouraging filmmakers to pursue stories that make a meaningful contribution to society.
“Receiving the Simon Mabhunu Sabela Award for Dr Mbongeni Ngema: This Is My Story was both an honour and an affirmation that stories rooted in our history, culture and lived experiences matter.
“I would encourage every eligible filmmaker, television producer, actor, writer and technical practitioner to enter. Whether you are an established professional or an emerging creative, these awards provide an opportunity to have your work recognised by your peers and to be part of a legacy that celebrates the very best of South African storytelling.”
The Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards continue to play an important role in supporting industry development, skills development and talent recognition while positioning KwaZulu-Natal as a leading film and television destination.
To enter the 2026 Simon “Mabhunu” Sabela KZN Film & Television Awards visit https://visitkzn-sa.com/film/simon-sabela-awards-2026/
Entries for the 2026 Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards close on 10 July 2026.