The awards aim to recognise and celebrate individuals, communities, organisations and institutions that have made significant contributions to the preservation, promotion, conservation and interpretation of South Africa's cultural and natural heritage, says the NHC.

Members of the public, heritage practitioners, organisations, institutions and communities are invited to nominate deserving heritage champions whose work has contributed to safeguarding and advancing the country's rich and diverse heritage, adds the NHC.

The closing date for the nomination is Friday, 14 August at 23:59.

The Golden Shield Heritage Awards aim to serve as a national platform to honour excellence, innovation and dedication in the heritage sector. Through these awards, the NHC says it aims to acknowledge those whose efforts ensure that South Africa's heritage remains accessible, relevant and meaningful for present and future generations.

According to the NHC, nominations are invited in the following categories:

  • Preferred Heritage Destination (Provincial / National category): Recognising provincial and national heritage sites, museums, interpretation centres and destinations that provide outstanding cultural heritage experiences.
  • Young Heritage Activist: Celebrating young people who actively contribute to heritage awareness and preservation.
  • Voice of Heritage: Recognising individuals and institutions that document and share heritage through publications, digital platforms, documentaries, music and other creative mediums.
  • Heritage Journalism: Honouring journalists and media platforms that report on heritage and culture in South Africa.
  • Corporate Heritage Management: Recognising businesses that incorporate heritage preservation and support into their operations.
  • Liberation Heritage Steward: Acknowledging those who protect and preserve South Africa's liberation history and legacy.
  • Heritage Education: Celebrating educational programmes, research and initiatives that promote awareness and pride in South African heritage.
  • Heritage Social Media Influencer: Recognising digital storytellers who use online platforms to promote South African culture and heritage.
  • National Living Treasure: Honouring custodians who preserve and transfer intangible cultural heritage, traditional knowledge and practices to future generations.

The NHC encourages nominations from all sectors of society, including communities, municipalities, academic institutions, civil society organisations and heritage stakeholders. Nominees should demonstrate a measurable contribution to heritage preservation, promotion, research, education, or conservation.

Nomination forms are available through the National Heritage Council website.

For more information, visit www.nhc.org.za. You can also follow the National Heritage Council on Facebook, X, or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of contributor