Standard Bank Young Artist Awards (SBYA) has announced its 2025 recipients, celebrating four decades of championing emerging South African talent.
Presented in partnership with the National Arts Festival, the prestigious award honours rising voices across six disciplines: dance, jazz, music, poetry, theatre, and visual arts.
Since launching in 1984, SBYA has recognized over 180 trailblazing artists. Each recipient receives funding, mentorship, and the opportunity to debut new work at the National Arts Festival in Makhanda. Over the years, the programme has helped propel the careers of icons such as William Kentridge, Mbongeni Ngema, and Mmakgabo Helen Sebidi.
This year’s recipients include: Nyakallo Maleke, Asanda Ruda, Siyasanga “Siya” Charles, Muneyi, Modise Sekgothe and also Calvin Ratladi.
Speaking on the milestone, Bonga Sebesho, Group Head of Sponsorship at Standard Bank, stated that the 40th anniversary represents both a celebration of the award’s rich legacy and a reaffirmation of its commitment to nurturing future talent.
“The Standard Bank Young Artist Awards continue to ignite the future of South African arts by celebrating visionary talent and inspiring new creative possibilities. We’ve been proud to stand alongside our partner Standard Bank for 40 years; identifying and showcasing the artists who are shaping South Africa’s cultural landscape. To the winners, congratulations, we are honoured to support your journey to Makhanda and beyond.”
The 2025 recipients will premiere their new works at the National Arts Festival. With each edition, SBYA continues to stand as a transformative platform and a key milestone in South Africa’s creative landscape.
