The SABC M1 Studios in Auckland Park glowed under warm gold, red, and ambient lighting, creating a vibrant and celebratory atmosphere, 29 November 2025, as the 7th annual South African Heroes Awards (SAHAs) brought together activists, leaders, artists and everyday citizens for a night dedicated to honouring unsung heroes. Hosted with charm and humour by Samora Mangesi and Gabisile Tshabalala, the evening seamlessly blended celebration, emotion and community spirit.
From the moment guests stepped inside, the atmosphere was electric. African prints, elegant gowns and black‑tie suits filled the hall, while photographers captured smiles and embraces on the red carpet. As soulful live music filled the room, applause broke out in waves, such signalled a sign of the energy that would carry through the night.
Standing With Women: A Ceremony with a Purpose
In her welcome address, founder Amanda Matshaka reflected on the significance of hosting the awards during the 16 Days of Activism. She reminded the audience that the SAHAs are held in November to affirm their solidarity with women across South Africa who continue to fight against gender‑based violence and femicide.
“The SA Heroes Awards stand with Women for Change and with every woman fighting against GBV and femicide. This is our way of honouring them, lifting their voices, and reminding the nation that women deserve safety, dignity, and celebration,” she said, a message that set a heartfelt tone for the evening.
Giving Honour Where it is Due
Two of the evening’s highest honours went to individuals whose lifelong work continues to shape South Africa.
Veteran activist Seth Mazibuko received recognition for his dedication to justice and youth empowerment, a commitment rooted in his role during the Soweto Uprising and carried forward through decades of community leadership.
Rights advocate Zola Mbatha was also honoured for her work in expanding access to legal support for underserved communities. Her passion for justice and protection of vulnerable groups earned her a warm and well‑deserved ovation.
Social justice and women’s health advocate Candice Chirwa, who is affectionately known as the “Minister of Menstruation” was celebrated for her deep commitment to menstrual health education, fighting period poverty, and advocating for period dignity. Through her non‑profit organisation Qrate, Candice has led workshops, authored books, and engaged communities across South Africa to challenge taboos, improve access to menstrual health resources, and empower girls and women. Her recognition at the awards signifies a broader acknowledgement that issues of menstrual health and period equity are as important to community wellbeing and human dignity as any other form of activism.
The ceremony featured powerful performances by artists including Brenden Praise, Khanyo Maphumulo, Gab & Mo, Ndo Dlakadla and Lungi Shezi. Each came with a unique sound that lifted the room, from soulful harmonies to upbeat praise.
At different moments, the hall echoed with rhythmic clapping, ululations and joyful cheers. In quieter moments, the room fell completely still as honourees shared their stories, creating a balance of reflection and celebration that defined the night.
As the event came to an end and guests stepped out into the Johannesburg night, there was a shared sense of upliftment, the kind that comes when a nation pauses to recognise its real heroes.
The 2025 South African Heroes Awards made one message unmistakably clear: Heroism thrives in ordinary people who choose compassion, justice and service every day, whether by defending rights, mentoring youth, or breaking silence around censored issues. By honouring them, we honour the best of who we are, and we move closer to the South Africa we strive to build.
SA Heroes Awards 2025 Winners
Community Service
Shincheonji Volunteers
Rural Development
Zinzile Mhesele
Community Health
Neliswa Leticia Cuba
Specialised Care
Ntandokazi Mlamleli
Youth Empowerment
Naledi Ramaboea
Business Empowerment
Lucy Human
Women Empowerment
Boby Nkoana
Community Journalist of the Year
Thapelo Magola
Community Media of the Year
Inner City Gazette
Community Builder of the Year
Muzi Nduku
HONOREES FOR 2025
Leader of Influence
Seth Mazibuko
Rights Activist of the Year
Zola Mbatha
Language Preservation
Tlotlisang Mhlambiso
Green Award
Rejoyce Kgabo Legodi
International Achiever
Nhlanhla Gumede
By Sinentlantla Mbokwe
