Voices of Impact Take Centre Stage

Johannesburg is preparing for an unforgettable night as one of the country’s most inspiring celebrations returns to honour the people shaping communities across South Africa. On 29 November 2025, M1 Studios in Auckland Park will host a red-carpet evening set to blend entertainment, legacy and impactful storytelling in a gathering themed “A Royal Celebration.”

The 7th Annual South African Heroes Awards (SAHAs) will once again shine a spotlight on individuals whose work, activism and service often go unnoticed, yet continue to transform lives. The ceremony will feature performances by Brenden Praise, Gabi & Mo, Khanyo Maphumulo, and several surprise guests, adding star power to a night built on everyday heroism.

Two iconic South Africans will receive special honours: Seth Mazibuko, a leader of the 1976 Soweto uprising, and renowned attorney and community advocate Zola Mbatha. Mazibuko will be recognised with the Leader of Influence Award, while Mbatha receives the Rights Activist of the Year Award.

Mazibuko, who led the April 1976 student boycott at Orlando West Secondary School, continues to inspire youth through the June 16 Foundation, which focuses on education, economic participation and social cohesion. “I’m humbled and grateful to be honoured with this award,” he said.

Mbatha, founder of Legacy Yezibaya and national community legal clinics, has dedicated her work to helping families understand their rights and protect their legacies. “I’m grateful for this amazing and empowering honour,” she shared.

Award founder Amanda Matshaka says the event exists to uplift those who serve quietly but powerfully. “The vision is to celebrate people who go above and beyond to improve the lives of those around them.”

This year’s event will be hosted by media personality Samora Mangesi and actress-singer Gabisile Tshabalala. Categories include Youth Empowerment, Women Empowerment, Rural Development, Community Health, Specialised Care, Community Service, Business Empowerment, Community Journalist of the Year and Community Media of the Year.

Nominees Include:
YOUTH EMPOWERMENT
Dr. Bonginkosi Thango
Tshediso Mahange
Tebello Foundation
Naledi Ramaboea
Quin Mdluli

WOMEN EMPOWERMENT
Nomathemba Nyirenda
Mapule Sarah Mthimkhulu
Kholofelo Matsepe
Boby Nkoana
Halaletsang Women Empowerment

BUSINESS EMPOWERMENT
Lufuno Rasoesoe
Jessica Tamara
Sqimntwana Projects
Kopano Letsepe
Lucy Human

RURAL DEVELOPMENT
Muzi Nduku
Lindelani Donald Maraganedzha
Siphokazi Ngwenya
Zinzile Mhesele

COMMUNITY HEALTH
Neliswa Leticia Cuba
Belinah Maserumule
Etta’s Healing Hearts Foundation
Dr Mzi Mabenge

SPECIALISED CARE

Ntandokazi Mlamleli
Lethabo La Rena Foundation
Boitumelo Mashakeng
Portia Mabala
Martha N. Mawela

COMMUNITY SERVICE
Koketso Marishane
Faith Ngako
Shincheonji Volunteers
Dr. Phophi Ramabulana
M-Powerment Care
humeza Mngambi Foundation

COMMUNITY JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR
Thapelo Magola
Lerato Mampa
Teboho Setena

COMMUNITY MEDIA OF THE YEAR
Mmegi Community Newspaper
Inner City Gazette
The Village Voice
Soweto Sunrise
Bloem Express

Tickets are available on Webtickets at R450.

The 2025 SAHAs are proudly sponsored by Mohlalefi Engineering, Cure Day Hospitals, LaGrace Properties, Murunwa Communications, Mpudulle Eye Centre and Brace Training Institute, with event communications managed by Journey Communications.