Johannesburg, South Africa - The South African Literary Awards (SALA) proudly mark their 20th anniversary in 2025, a historic milestone that coincides with South Africa’s Heritage Month this September. This twin celebration pays tribute to the profound role of literature in shaping, preserving, and advancing the nation’s cultural heritage.
This month, the South African Literary Awards (SALA) will be assembling over 30 seasoned adjudicators for a final adjudication convention where a consensus will be reached on a longlist of nominees.
The list of nominees arises from a prolific and enthusiastic response to the 20th SALA Call for Submissions that was sent out to authors, publishers and the public in November 2024 and closed in June 2025.
The shortlisted authors will be announced at a celebratory Awards ceremony to be held on 7th November 2024, the 34th anniversary of the AU-declared International African Writers’ Day.
Established in 2005, the South African Literary Awards have grown into the country’s most prestigious platform for recognising literary excellence across genres, languages and generations. Over the past two decades, SALA has honoured more than 300 authors whose works embody the spirit, struggles, triumphs and aspirations of South Africa and Africa at large.
“This 20-year milestone is not just a celebration of SALA, but of the countless voices that have carried our nation’s stories, memories and dreams onto the page. Literature is a living heritage and through SALA we ensure that the pen continues to build bridges across cultures, languages and histories,” says Zodwa Motsa, Chairperson of the SALA Advisory Board.
A Milestone Interwoven with Heritage Month
Heritage Month, celebrated every September in South Africa, recognises the diverse traditions, languages and creative expressions that form the tapestry of South Africa’s identity. Literature stands at the heart of this living heritage, capturing not only history and memory but also charting pathways for the future, explains Motsa.
This year’s dual commemoration underscores how storytelling remains central to nation-building and social cohesion. She says through novels, poetry, biographies, children’s stories and essays, writers reflect the lived experiences of South Africans while offering new ways to imagine collective futures.
“Heritage Month reminds us that our identity is not singular but shared across languages, cultures, and generations. SALA, by honouring literary excellence in all South Africa’s languages, has helped build this shared heritage for 20 years,” adds Motsa, who is also Vice-Principal for Teaching and Learning at UNISA.
Celebrating Two Decades of Impact
Since its inception, SALA, in partnership with the DSAC, has achieved significant milestones, and these include:
- Recognition of multilingual excellence: Honouring works in all 11 official languages, reinforcing inclusivity and diversity.
- Spotlighting emerging voices and providing platforms for new and young writers to thrive alongside established authors.
- Honouring icons of literature by acknowledging the lifetime achievements of literary giants who have shaped the nation’s intellectual and cultural landscape.
- Championing Pan-African literary solidarity by recognising works that transcend borders and contribute to the broader African literary renaissance.
Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter
As SALA enters its third decade, the awards reaffirm their commitment to nurturing literary talent, preserving heritage and celebrating creativity. Plans for the 20th anniversary year include a series of events, dialogues, public readings and community engagements designed to deepen appreciation of literature as a cornerstone of South Africa’s heritage.
“As we celebrate 20 years, we look to the future with renewed energy. SALA will continue to be a home for writers, readers, and communities who believe in the power of the written word to unite, heal, and inspire,” says Morakabe Raks Seakhoa, Executive Director and founder of SALA.
About the South African Literary Awards
Founded in 2005 by wRite associates and supported by Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, the South African Literary Awards (SALA) celebrate literary excellence in South Africa’s official languages and beyond. The Awards honour authors across categories such as poetry, fiction, creative non-fiction, children’s literature, literary journalism, translation and lifetime achievement.
For two decades, SALA has promoted inclusivity, amplified diverse voices, and upheld literature as a living expression of heritage and identity, says veteran cultural activist, Seakhoa.