Mbokodo Awards; New Media Category

It's late on Thursday night, but I just had to do this post. I just came in from the Mbokodo Awards function held at the Theatre on Track in Kyalami, where the Department of Arts and Culture was honouring women in the arts in South Africa. And well, moi was a finalist was a finalist in the Women In New Media Category.

I didn't win, but well... just to be a finalist!!! It was such an unexpected honour. As you can see, it got me so excited I just had to blog about it.

About the Mbokodo Awards

"Through these Awards we recognize the contribution the women of our country continue to make in the arts, culture and heritage sector. Women have long been at the forefront of our arts and culture and heritage landscape but somehow when accolades are considered it is mostly males who are recipients," Department of Arts and Culture Paul Mashatile said in his speech at the inaugural function last year. 

So. A big thank you to all my readers for being being with me through thick and thin, and getting me nominated. This nomination would not have happened without you taking time from your busy lives to hang out with me here on Storypot. This nomination belongs to you just as it does to me.

I also want to offer all the finalists and winners my best wishes in their careers. Launching a career in the arts is very challenging and I'm glad that you persisted back when no one knew your name. Thank you for not giving up, even when you were told that a career in the arts was not practical, or when you came across strong challenges. I hope that you continue to grow from strength to strength.

The Event


Anyhoo, like I said, the event was a lot of fun. I met some very interesting people; chatted with old friends I haven't seen in forever (read: since I moved to Phokeng) and the food was great.

The entertainment was fantabulous, and I was introduced to talented artists I definitely want to watch again. My favourite act was Sarafina by The Department of Performing Arts (Musical Theatre) at the Tshwane University of Technology. Here's the YouTube video of one of their perfornances. If you do hear of that show coming to your area, don't miss it.

Here's what they say about it, with some teasers included:

Congratulations Josias (the director). You nailed this one.