The National Film & TV Awards South Africa (NFTA) announced the complete list of nominees for the 2025 edition, with industry legends receiving honorary recognition for their lifelong contributions to film and television.
Notably, this year’s event drew more than 1.9 million public submissions. The NFTA continues its mission to elevate South African talent globally, linking the local industry with international audiences and, as a result, strengthening its presence on the world stage.
National Film & TV Awards: Mission and Legacy
With a 27-year history, the National Film Academy, boasting over 7.5 million global members, is a leading force behind awards such as the National Film Awards UK, the National Film & TV Awards USA, and the National Reality Television Awards.
The South African edition, now in its third year, will take place on 22 November 2025 at the South African State Theatre, celebrating the best in film and television while honouring industry pioneers.
Public voting opens at 13:00 on 13 October 2025 via www.nationalfilmacademy.com and closes at 12:00 on 20 November 2025, marking the official window for participation.
Sponsors of the National Film & TV Awards
The National Film & TV Awards will recognise Dr John Kani with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, thereby highlighting his exceptional contributions to cinema and theatre. His influence, in particular, has shaped the industry for decades and continues to resonate with both audiences and artists.
“As we move into the third year of the National Film & TV Awards, we are excited to ensure that the Academy celebrates icons who have paved the way. As well as a shortlist of fantastic nominees, we are pleased to announce that our homegrown icons will be honoured and celebrated globally for their achievements, which laid the foundation for the thriving film and television industry we are witnessing in South Africa today.”
~ Kabelo, Head of Partnerships, National Film & TV Awards South Africa
Leon Schuster, Alfred Ntombela, and Dr Jerry Mofokeng Makhetha will each receive the Outstanding Contribution to Film and TV Award, in recognition of their immense cultural impact.
Over the years, the Lifetime Achievement Honours have gone to leading figures such as Rowan Atkinson, Samuel L. Jackson, Dame Helen Mirren, among others, which illustrates the global reach and prestige of these awards.
Sponsors of the National Film & TV Awards
Sara Kensington, Global Partnerships Manager at the National Film Academy, emphasised the awards’ mission:
“It is very important to honour the legends of the South African film and television industry, and that is exactly what the National Film & TV Awards and the academy represent. While we celebrate iconic figures who have paved the way, this year’s nominees showcase the next generation of exceptional talent. From actors, actresses, producers, and storytellers who are redefining creativity and pushing boundaries in film and television. The primary goal of the National Film & TV Awards has always been to create a powerful gateway for South African talent to reach global audiences.”
~ Sara Kensington, Global Partnerships Manager, National Film Academy
The awards aim to spotlight South Africa’s creative excellence, nurturing opportunities for local films and stars to gain international recognition.
2025 Nominee Highlights
Film Actress of the Year 2025
Each nominee on this year’s shortlist represents the best in film acting; in particular, their performances capture the complexities of their roles, continually shaping stories that resonate with audiences long after the credits roll. Not only do they possess remarkable depth, but these actresses have also brought distinctive energy to their characters, setting a standard for excellence in the field.
- Londeka Sishi – Umjolo: There Is No Cure
- Ayanda Borotho – Meet The Khumalos
- Lunathi Mampofu – Disaster Holiday
- Nirvana Nokwe-Mseleku – Umjolo: My Beginnings, My End!
- Sibusisiwe Jili – Umjolo: Day Ones
- Sibongiseni Shezi – Umjolo: The Gone Girl
- Nozuko Ncayiyane – M’tase Khaya
- Anel Alexander – Semi-Soeter
- Gretchen Ramsden – Carissa
- Khanyi Mbau – Meet The Khumalos
Leading Actor in a Film 2025
This year’s field for Best Leading Actor is especially competitive. Besides delivering dynamic roles, these performers have also transformed some of the year’s most memorable films. As a result, their efforts have sparked meaningful conversations about storytelling and representation.
- Kenneth Nkosi – Disaster Holiday
- Tyson Mathonsi – Umjolo: The Gone Girl
- Nico Panagio – Semi-Soeter
- Craig Nobela – Kites
- Christopher Jaftha – Khaki Fever
- Yonda Thomas – Umjolo: My Beginning, My End
- Keenan Harrison – Heart Is A Muscle
Top Scripted TV Series 2025
This category highlights the best in scripted television; consequently, it showcases series that have set a new standard for storytelling and production value across South Africa’s diverse viewing platforms.
- Marked (Netflix, Season 1)
- Adulting (Showmax, Season 3)
- Kings Of Joburg (Netflix, Season 3)
- Black Gold (BET Africa, Season 1)
- Ithonga (Mzansi Magic, Season 1)
- GO! (Netflix, Season 1)
- Shaka iLembe (Mzansi Magic, Season 2)
- Youngins (Showmax, Season 2)
- Unseen (Netflix, Season 2)
- Fatal Seduction (Netflix, Season 1)
- Empini (Showmax, Season 2)
Outstanding Feature Film 2025
The best feature films of the year stand as a testament to creative vision and collaborative energy. Above all, these works illustrate how South African cinema continues to reach new heights, inviting audiences into captivating worlds and powerful narratives.
- Semi-Soeter
- Meet The Khumalos
- Hen
- The Heart Is A Muscle
- Umjolo: My Beginning, My End!
- Carissa
- Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight
- Kites
- Disaster Holiday
- Khaki Fever
- Adam
Voting and Broadcast Details
Public voting for the National Film & TV Awards takes place from 13 October 2025 at 13:00 until 20 November 2025 at 12:00 via www.nationalfilmacademy.com.
In addition, the ceremony will, for the first time, be streamed live on VooVix TV on 22 November 2025, reaching millions of viewers. As a highlight, winners are set to be announced at the South African State Theatre, creating a significant moment for both industry leaders and fans.
For more articles, go here.
