First Annual DGSA Creative Awards for directors launches

The Director’s Guild of South Africa (DGSA) has launched the first Annual DGSA Creatives Awards to celebrate directors, the visionaries behind the camera, who shape South African film and television culture.

11 Apr 2025

Source: © 123rf The Director’s Guild of South Africa (DGSA) has launched the first Annual DGSA Creatives Awards that will celebrate directors

Source: © 123rf 123rf The Director’s Guild of South Africa (DGSA) has launched the first Annual DGSA Creatives Awards that will celebrate directors

For too long, directors have been the unsung architects of South Africa’s most iconic stories.

“Directors are the backbone of this industry, but they don’t always get the credit they deserve. The DGSA Awards aim to change that and in doing so put local talent on the international map,” says Andile Sinqoto, DGSA executive committee member.

More than just a trophy

For DGSA, this is about more than awards. It’s about pushing the industry forward.

Unlike other awards, the DGSA Creatives Awards are created by directors, ensuring that the categories, judging criteria and recognition truly reflect the realities and achievements of those behind the camera.

“We are creating a space where talent is actively uplifted and respected. It's time to celebrate the vision, hard work and the future of a group of people who have contributed so much to South African history,” says Sinqoto.

The most-watched series on M-Net in 2024 was Chasing the Sun 2 – A Story for South Africa, surpassing international hit series in its category, such as White Lies, The Day of the Jackal, Penguin and FBI (Image supplied)

Chasing The Sun 2 – A Story for South Africa: M-Net's 2024's most watched series

3 days

Submissions

Submissions are open to directors working in film, television, or commercial production to showcase their talents to the world.

Submissions opened: 25 March 2025
Final entry deadline: 31 July 2025
Nominees announced: 30 September 2025
Awards open day: 28 November 2025
Awards ceremony: 29 November 2025

DGSA, founded in 2024, is a membership-driven nonprofit dedicated to advancing the craft of directing and advocating for the rights of directors.

With a rapidly growing membership base of industry professionals, the organisation works to elevate directors’ economic standing, provide mentorship and training and foster international collaborations.

The DGSA Awards further this mission by spotlighting excellence in directing and offering a platform to celebrate the industry’s finest talent.

See the full list of categories, entry criteria, and fees, head to here.