Directors take centre stage - DGSA extends entry deadline for first Annual Creative Awards to Honour SA’s directing talent

South Africa’s creative pulse is set to quicken this November as the Directors Guild of South Africa (DGSA), in partnership with Canon South Africa, rolls out the red carpet for its first annual DGSA Creative Awards, a landmark celebration recognising the artistry, leadership, and vision that define outstanding directing in film and television. Against the backdrop of Cape Town’s iconic Westin Hotel, the two-day event will unite the country’s most accomplished and emerging directors with industry leaders, media, and the public in a rare convergence of talent and insight.

In a show of global support, companies such as Stage 32 LLC and the New York Film Academy, along with several other exciting partners, have joined forces with DGSA for this groundbreaking event, underscoring its international relevance and industry impact.

In response to overwhelming interest from the local and international screen community, DGSA has extended the awards submission deadline to 15 September, ensuring more voices, stories, and perspectives have the opportunity to be recognised. To see the full list of categories, entry criteria, and fees, head to https://www.dgosa.org.za/annual-dgsa-creatives-awards/.

“The event is more than just an awards evening. It’s a platform to showcase the creative strength and cultural relevance of South African directors,” says Andile Sinqoto, Executive Director, Head of Governance and Policy at DGSA. “By extending the entry period, we’re allowing more directors to step forward, ensuring the richness and diversity of our industry is well represented.”

On 28 November, audiences and industry professionals can look forward to public activations, media engagements, industry dialogue sessions, DGSA-curated panel discussions, and exhibitions aimed at sparking ideas and cultivating collaboration. Industry professionals, media, and the public are encouraged to mark their calendars and register interest early. 

The following day, attention will turn to the formal award ceremony and gala evening, with a red carpet welcome, official presentations, and prime networking opportunities for the South African screen sector. 

As the Guild’s first event of this scale, the Creative Awards reflect DGSA’s determination to be counted among the world’s most influential directors’ guilds and to shape the direction of the local industry.

“Our goal is to celebrate not just the finished piece on screen but the courage, craft, and leadership that bring it to life. This is about raising the bar for our profession and uniting the community to create a legacy that will shape the future of South African storytelling,” concludes Sinqoto.