As part the 10th South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs), three new
special awards have been added to recognise individuals, groups or initiatives that
have contributed to the growth and development of the film and television industry
in underserviced areas as well as for the benefit of people with disabilities.
The addition was also included to ensure that the SAFTAs are aligned to the National
Film and Video Foundation’s (NFVF) mandate of growing and developing the industry
through the showcasing and celebrating of our country’s diversity (languages, and
regional representation). Furthermore, a special Disability Recognition Award will go
to individuals, groups or particular initiatives that have contributed significantly
towards making the film and television industry accessible to people living with
disabilities.
According NFVF CEO, Zama Mkosi: “The transformation of the industry and ensuring
that the awards become more inclusive is something that is particularly aligned to
the objectives of the SAFTAs to stimulate participation by a broad mass and to
promote access to the film and television industry by the general public.’
Mkosi points out that in addition to the new special recognition awards, the Lifetime
Achievement Award will this year go to a legendary woman who has contributed
immensely to the industry. This is in commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the
Women’s March and to recognise the indelible contribution the women of 1956 have
made to advance the status of women in general.
This year also marks the 40th anniversary of the Soweto Uprising and the Best
Student Film category will be used to mark this turning point in the history of South
Africa.
Audiences will also get an opportunity to vote for their favourite soap following the
introduction of the Most Popular Soap category, which is different from the Best TV
Soap Award where judges do the voting.
Most Popular Soap voting line
SMS voting lines have opened for the public to vote for their “Most Popular Soap’ via
SMS.
• To vote, SMS the code of the soap you would like to vote for to the number
33101.
• SMS voting lines close on 20 March 2016 at 21h30.
• The cost of the SMS to the consumer will be R1.50.
Shows and voting codes:
Isibaya – 1
7 de Laan – 2
Ashes to Ashes – 3
Binnerlanders – 4
Skeem Saam – 5
SCANDAL! – 6
Rhythm City – 7
Generations The Legacy – 8
Villa Rosa – 9
Isidingo – 10
The SAFTAs 2016 award ceremonies will take place on 18 and 20 March 2016.
