The red carpet was rolled out at the Artscape Theatre on Tuesday 7 October, as the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport honoured the province’s top talent in arts, culture and heritage.
Under the theme “Journey from Darkness into Light: Thrive”, the evening was a celebration of creativity and contribution, recognising artists, linguists, librarians, and heritage custodians for their lasting impact across the province.
Winners were crowned across a range of categories, including Excellence in Performing Arts Award, a project that promotes South African Sign Language or the marginalised indigenous languages of the Western Cape, The Best Friends of the Public Library and Ministerial Commendations.
Renowned musician Loukmaan Adams was one of the recipients of a Ministerial Commendation, while Dr Isaac Balie was one among those who received a Ministerial Legacy award for his lifelong contribution in his field.
Thandi Swartbooi, founder of the all-female ensemble Women Unite, was also recognised for her pioneering work in preserving indigenous dance and music, and empowering communities through the arts.
Jabaar Mohamed, provincial director of DeafSA Western Cape, won the Project that Promotes South African Sign Language or the Marginalised Indigenous Languages of the Western Cape category for his TV show called Accessibility with Jabaar.
Speaking to People’s Post, Mohamed said the award is more than just a “trophy”.
“It’s a recognition of years of advocacy, passion, and belief in my media platform Accessibility with Jabaar TV talk show on Cape Town TV. It represents the roots of inclusivity for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Disability communities — because that’s where true community begins.”
Mohamed said it’s a powerful reminder that accessibility matters, and that voices expressed through South African Sign Language (SASL) are “finally being seen and valued”.
“I dedicate this award to everyone who continues to break barriers and create equal opportunities for all. I’m especially proud that this recognition comes from our beautiful province, the Western Cape, my home, all the way from Elsies River.”
He said this fuels him to do more.
“Being deaf is not an obstacle. It’s part of who I am and what drives me to do more. This award doesn’t mean I’m done; it’s just the beginning. There’s still so much I’m planning.”
The Best Friends of the Public Library award went to the Friends of the Central Library.
Mike Klink, chair of the Friends of Central Library, said: “It takes a lot of work to build relationships in the library ecosystem. This win is not just about my leadership but about my team and everyone contributing. We encourage people to come to the Central Library to see what the friends of the library are doing. They are welcome to partner with us to create more creative and innovative ideas.”
Ricardo Mackenzie, provincial minister of cultural affairs and sport, said art is the mirror and heartbeat of society.
“It captures our shared struggles and triumphs, reminding us that creativity is both our refuge and renewal. The theme speaks to the spirit of our province, a spirit that refuses to be defeated by hardship and instead transforms it into hope, beauty, and understanding.
“When we celebrate our artists, we celebrate resilience, imagination, and the belief that through culture, we all move forward together,” concluded Mackenzie.
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