Durban — Tributes were paid on Saturday to the late Dr Mbongeni Ngema, Mpho Sebeng and others who have departed and left an indelible mark on the South African TV and film industry at the 2024 Simon Mabhunu Sabela KZN Film and TV Awards.
The fallen stars, whose enduring legacies continue to inspire and shape the future of the local entertainment landscape, were remembered at the gala event which took place at the iconic Playhouse in Durban on Saturday night.
Ngema, a playwright, lyricist, composer, director, choreographer and theatre producer, died in December, while Ring of Lies and Savage Beauty actor Sebeng died in May.
The evening’s winners were announced in various categories.
Thembinkosi Mthembu won the Best Actor – TV award, Deli Malinga was named the Best Actress – TV, Masoja Msiza was honoured as the Best Actor – Film, while Jo-Anne Reyneke won the Best Actress – Film award.
Ngema was named the Best Supporting Actor, Dr Thembi Mtshali won the Best Supporting Actress – Film award, and Melusi Yeni was honoured as the Best Supporting Actor – TV.
Sibusiso Gumbi, acting CEO of the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority, said: “These awards serve as a testament to our immense talent in KwaZulu-Natal and our film-makers and television professionals’ incredible impact.
“We are immensely proud of all the winners and nominees, who continue to raise the bar and push the boundaries of creativity. Their dedication and passion inspire us all.”
The prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to actress Cynthia Shange.
Gumbi said: “Amid this celebration of artistic excellence, we cannot overlook the invaluable role of the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, through its entities, in propelling South Africa’s film industry onto the global stage. With its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture, KwaZulu-Natal remains the film destination of choice, attracting film-makers and tourists worldwide.”
In response to the growing popularity of reality shows in KZN and their impact on the local industry, the KZN Tourism and Film Authority introduced an innovative public participation category.
This new category invited the general public to engage in the nomination and judging process through a social media voting system, recognising audience favourites. The Best Reality Show award went to KwaNjomane.
Last year Minnie Dlamini hosted the awards. This year’s event was hosted by the charismatic Nomalanga Shozi alongside the sassy Nokwazi. Nokwazi is an isiZulu-speaking virtual assistant who entertained both Shozi and the guests. The event highlighted the fast-paced and ever-changing world of technology.
The inclusion of Nokwazi, with the award-winning Lerato Mvelase behind the voice, showcased how technology can be harnessed to celebrate the visual and cultural diversity of KwaZulu-Natal.
Sunday Tribune