Over the past two decades, SALA have celebrated more than 300 authors, recognising voices that capture the nation’s struggles, triumphs, and aspirations.
By Abioye Damilare Samson
The South African Literary Awards (SALA) are marking their 20th anniversary this September, a milestone that coincides with the country’s annual Heritage Month celebrations.
Over the past two decades, the awards have celebrated more than 300 authors, recognising voices that capture the nation’s struggles, triumphs, and aspirations. This year’s commemorations will see over 30 adjudicators convene for the final round of judging, with a longlist to be drawn from submissions received between November 2024 and June 2025. The shortlisted authors will be unveiled at a ceremony on November 7, 2025, coinciding with the 34th anniversary of International African Writers’ Day.
Reflecting on the milestone, Prof. Zodwa Motsa, Chairperson of the SALA Advisory Board, described literature as a “living heritage”, central to building bridges across cultures, languages, and histories. “Heritage Month reminds us that our identity is not singular but shared. By honouring literary excellence in all of South Africa’s languages, SALA has helped build this shared heritage for 20 years”, she said.
Beyond recognising excellence, the awards have amplified multilingual voices, spotlighted emerging writers, honoured literary icons, and championed Pan-African solidarity by celebrating works that transcend borders.
Looking to the future, Morakabe Raks Seakhoa, Executive Director and founder of SALA, affirmed that the awards will continue to nurture literary talent while deepening appreciation of storytelling as a cornerstone of South Africa’s cultural life. “As we celebrate 20 years, we look to the future with renewed energy. SALA will remain a home for writers, readers, and communities who believe in the power of the written word to unite, heal, and inspire”.
Founded in 2005 by wRite associates and supported by the 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.