Diane and Mike Rossi were recognised for their support of jazz education. Greg Maloka’s contribution to the arts through the airwaves was acknowledged, while Michelle Constant’s support for the business of the arts was applauded. James Ngcobo was honoured for his long-standing theatrical contribution to the arts.
Creating sustainable venues and spaces for the arts is critical to the industry and both Simnikiwe Sondlo, owner of Niki’s Oasis Jazz Restaurant (who was honoured for preserving a jazz venue for all times) and Sam Mhangwani (who was recognised for producing a sustainable music festival) were celebrated for the role they have played in doing so.
Mncedi Zulu was recognised of his long-standing appreciation for jazz; Sam Nhlengethwa for his appreciation of jazz through visual arts; and Siphiwe Mhlambi’s support through the lens that captured jazz icons. Yvonne Chaka Chaka took honours for her lyrical and humanitarian contribution to the arts.
These icons were celebrated in style with a remarkable ensemble of musicians including Luyanda Madope (piano), Siphelelo Mabuza (drums), Lwanda Gogwana (flugelhorn), Thembinkosi Mavimbela (double bass), Sisonke Xonti, Senzo Ngcobo (trombone) alongside Spha Mdlalose, Titi Luzipo, Lindiwe Maxolo and Sakhile Moleshe.
