New Special Recognition categories introduced to the 2016 SAFTAs to strengthen the diversity agenda

07 March 2016: As part of marking the 10th South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs), three new special awards have been added to the awards to recognise individuals, groups or initiatives that have contributed to the growth and development of the film and television industry in the 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 (NFVF) mandate of growing and developing the industry through showcasing and celebrating of our country’s diversity (languages, and regional representation). Furthermore, special Disability Recognition Award will go to individuals, groups or a particular initiative that have contributed significantly towards making the film and television industry accessible to people living with disabilities.

According to the CEO of the National Film and Video Foundation 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.