Heritage awards highlight innovation and resilience in cultural preservation
The 12th annual Golden Shield Heritage Awards, hosted by the National Heritage Council (NHC), were held at the Emnotweni Arena on September 19.
This prestigious event brought together cultural leaders, heritage practitioners and community builders from across the nation to celebrate and honour those who have made significant contributions to the preservation, protection and promotion of South Africa’s diverse cultural heritage.
According to Tau Masemola, the NHC’s chairperson, the occasion – conceptualised in 2007 and formally launched in 2012 – was established to fill a crucial gap in the nation-building and transformation space.
ALSO READ: Summit ignites financial empowerment in Hazyview
“The delay in [the ceremony’s] implementation was intentional, allowing the NHC to conduct extensive research and observation through seminars and conferences,” Masemola said.
The awards recognise individuals, organisations and communities from all backgrounds who are dedicated to safeguarding the country’s rich legacy,” he said.
This initiative serves as a vital platform for South Africans to collectively cherish their heritage, acknowledging both the tangible and intangible aspects of our culture.
Dr Thabo Manetsi, the CEO of the NHC, said the accolades pay tribute to the “unsung heroes and champions of our heritage” with the 2025 finalists demonstrating innovation, resilience and passion.
“The awards are a powerful way to ensure that South Africa’s cultural identity remains alive and relevant for future generations. Finalists for the 12th annual awards included a diverse range of contributors, such as the Hector Pieterson Museum in Soweto, the !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre in the Western Cape and the Indlondlo Zulu Dancers in KwaZulu-Natal, among others,” Manetsi said.
Categories for nomination have included:
• Preferred Heritage Destination
• Young Heritage Activist
• Voice of Heritage
• Heritage Education
• Corporate Heritage Management
• National Living Treasure.
This year’s event featured special honorary categories: a Lifetime Achievement Award and the Ubuntu Honour, celebrating distinguished citizens for their lasting impact.
Manetsi said, “The 12th annual Golden Shield Heritage Awards ceremony in Mpumalanga was a vibrant affirmation of South Africa’s collective identity and served as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving our shared history.”
Manetsi added that people should embrace their culture and heritage, because if they don’t it will cease to exist.
At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
