New photography award offers a R100,000 prize, professional support and career-building opportunities for emerging photographers
The Santu Mofokeng Foundation has announced the launch of the Santu Mofokeng Foundation Photography Prize, a new national award created to recognise and support emerging photographers across South Africa.
Established in honour of one of the country’s most celebrated visual storytellers, the annual prize celebrates Santu Mofokeng’s legacy by investing in the future of South African photography. Through an open national call, the initiative will spotlight photographers whose work reflects creativity, critical thinking and a meaningful engagement with the photographic medium.
A New Chapter for South African Photography
The Photography Prize officially launched with an industry preview event on 11 July 2026 at the Latitudes Centre for the Arts in Johannesburg.
The event introduced the inaugural award to South Africa’s photography community while showcasing a curated exhibition of selected works by Santu Mofokeng.
The initiative aims to provide emerging photographers with greater visibility, recognition and professional development at a crucial stage in their careers.
What the Winner Will Receive
The inaugural Santu Mofokeng Foundation Photography Prize offers more than financial support. The winning photographer will receive:
- R100,000 cash prize
- Editorial support
- A professional artist profile
- Future exhibition opportunities through Latitudes programmes
These opportunities are designed to help emerging artists build sustainable careers while expanding their exposure within South Africa’s contemporary art scene.
Who Can Apply?
Applications open in July 2026 and are open to emerging photographers who live and work in South Africa.
Applicants must be independent photographic practitioners and submit work created within the past five years.
Applications close on 15 October 2026.
Honouring Santu Mofokeng’s Legacy
Administered by the Santu Mofokeng Foundation, with Latitudes serving as its promotional and platform partner, the Photography Prize continues the Foundation’s mission to preserve, research and share the legacy of one of South Africa’s most influential photographers.
At the same time, the award looks ahead by creating meaningful opportunities for the next generation of visual artists and strengthening the country’s contemporary photography landscape.
Further information, application guidelines and entry details will be available through the Latitudes Online platform and the Santu Mofokeng Foundation’s official channels when entries open in July 2026.
