This is to ensure that the SAFTAs are aligned to the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) mandate of growing and developing the industry through highlighting and celebrating of the 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.
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 soapie following the introduction of Most Popular Soap category, which is different from the Best TV Soap Award where judges do the voting.
The SAFTAs 2016 award ceremonies will take place on 18 and 20 March 2016 at Gallagher Convention Centre.
