The 17th annual South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) 2023, held at Midrand’s Gallagher Convention Centre, was a night of victory for local stars who won big.
The event honours the best of South African film and television talent and productions while also encouraging entrepreneurship and the development of new talent in the industry.
We look at some of the night’s best looks as congratulations for individuals who received awards for their ground-breaking contributions in the entertainment sector continue to pour in.
Former Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi and multi-hyphenate star Lawrence Maleka were at the helm as hosts for the night.
Maleka exemplified his exceptional talent by winning Best Actor in a Telenovela for his portrayal of Zolani in The River.
The pair did not only keep the guests entertained, but they also looked the part with their multiple outfit transformations.
As the red carpet was rolled out, celebrities were expected to dress to the nines for the glittering night, and most of them delivered the finest appearances.
Radio personality Thando Thabethe was among those who looked majestic on the night.
Former Miss SA Ndavi Nokeri also heeded the call to look ravishing, delivering a head-turning look as she donned a high-slit green dress.
The list included personalities such as Nolwazi Shange, Clement Maosa and Relebogile Mobotja.
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Zizi Kodwa, said SAFTAs had been a great celebration of the work and efforts of film and television practitioners.
He congratulated all the winners and nominees.
MultiChoice Group also celebrated scooping 45 top awards, echoing the group’s commitment to celebrating African stories and talent.
Nomsa Philiso, CEO of General Entertainment for the MultiChoice Group, celebrated the victories, congratulated all the winners, and said: “Tonight, more than ever, the MultiChoice Group and all our beloved titles and brands reaffirmed our position as the true home of entertainment. Our commitment to providing a stage for African storytellers to shine has never been stronger. Their narratives, their passion and their talent are what drive us to excel.”
One of the highlights of the night was Derek Watts, a stalwart in South African television and investigative journalism, who was honoured posthumously with the Lifetime Achiever Award.
Watts’s impactful 35-year tenure on M-Net’s Carte Blanche exemplifies the profound influence of media on creating a more informed and just society.
Koos Roets was also celebrated as the second SAFTAs 17 Lifetime Achiever and hailed for his contribution and longevity in the South African film industry.