SANAA 2026 FINALISTS ANNOUNCED!
From Eastern Cape to Western Cape, artisans are stepping into the spotlight — innovators, builders, and creators shaping South Africa’s future.
Celebrating excellence across the 13 priority trades, these finalists represent the power of skills, passion, and determination.
National Awards Ceremony: 5 September 2026
Theme: “Changing Artisanal Identity and Status”
3 DAYS TO GO!
The countdown to artisan excellence has begun and soon, our champions will be crowned on *05 September 2026*Join us as we celebrate the incredible skills and dedication of South Africa’s finest artisans — the heartbeat of inclusive industrial growth.
Let’s cheer on our finalists: Daniel, Mohammad, Xolisa, Musawenkosi, Lungile, Lutendo, Tshepo, Mamello, and Clarence — true champions of TVET excellence!
*THE ARTISAN’S MOMENT*This afternoon, the hall at SANAA was alive with anticipation. One by one, 34 artisans stepped forward as the Programme Director proudly calls their names. Each received the SANAA Ambassador Blazer, signed the Book of Legacy, and joined the collective voice declaring the *Ambassador Declaration*
The atmosphere was electric — employers, industry partners, and families watched as recognition transforms into responsibility. The artisans are no longer award recipients; they are now *National Artisan Ambassadors* , carrying the weight of leadership, mentorship, and national pride.
As Mr. Senye reminded us on Channel Africa: “Let’s make the artisan fashionable.” Today, that vision is unfolding in real time. The Rite of Passage is not just a ceremony — it is a movement, a living tradition that elevates artisanship to the heart of South Africa’s productive identity.
And right now, as the reflections, declarations, and celebrations continue, the story of SANAA 2026 is being written — a story of excellence, responsibility, and legacy.
*SANAA NATIONAL ARTISAN AMBASSADOR DECLARATION*
Recognising Excellence • Investing in Artisan Success • Inspiring Generations
The recitation of the SANAA National Artisan Ambassador Declaration is more than a ceremonial moment — it is a solemn pledge that defines the values, responsibilities, and legacy of every artisan chosen to wear the SANAA Ambassador Blazer.
*WHY THE DECLARATION MATTERS*
– *Integrity:* The pledge emphasises honesty, professionalism, and ethical conduct. Ambassadors commit to being role models who uphold the dignity of the artisan profession.
– *Values:* Excellence, lifelong learning, innovation, and service to community are central. These values ensure artisans remain builders of industries and shapers of society.
– *Ambassadorial Role:* Ambassadors represent not only themselves but the collective hopes of future generations. They carry the responsibility of inspiring youth, mentoring apprentices, and advancing the artisan identity.
*THE POWER OF THE PLEDGE*
Every artisan who recites this declaration acknowledges that:
– They are nation builders, not just employees or tradespeople.
– Their work strengthens communities, builds industries, and leaves a lasting legacy.
– Their role extends beyond personal achievement to collective responsibility.
*THE RESPONSIBILITY OF REPRESENTATION*
By accepting this honour, SANAA Ambassadors commit to:
– *Mentorship:* Guiding and inspiring future artisans.
– *Innovation:* Driving continuous improvement and excellence.
– *Service:* Using their skills to solve problems and uplift society.
– *Legacy:* Ensuring every project, every apprentice, and every innovation contributes to a greater future.
This declaration is not just words — it is a living commitment. It reminds artisans that their craft is a cornerstone of So
South Africa, here are the nominees/finalists for SANAA 2026 from 13 priority trades!
These artisans represent skill, innovation, and excellence — reshaping artisanal identity and status while driving inclusive industrial growth.
From welders to plumbers, electricians to fitters, each finalist embodies the spirit of A Nation That Works. Their journeys prove that artisanal careers are powerful pathways to opportunity, recognition, and national development.
On *05 September 2026* , they will be crowned during the South African National Artisan Awards ceremony, celebrating their journeys and elevating artisan excellence across the nation.
SANAA 2026 NOMINEES
We proudly present 23 of the 34 trailblazing artisans shaping South Africa’s industrial future!From diverse skills to unmatched excellence, these finalists embody the spirit of innovation and resilience.
FROM THE EASTERN CAPE – HOME OF LEGENDS
Meet Eastern Cape’s SANAA 2026 nominee:
*MASIXOLE VUTELA*
ELECTRICIAN | ENTREPRENEUR | MENTOR_“Being an artisan means using your hands, knowledge and experience to solve problems, build communities and develop others.”_
Masixole’s journey began with a passion for electrical systems and a belief in the power of artisans to transform communities. From King Hintsa TVET College to King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality, he gained hands‑on experience in installations, maintenance, meters, and streetlights.
In 2019, he qualified as an Electrical Engineering Artisan through Vuselela TVET College. Today, as founder of Vutela Trading Enterprise, Masixole is more than an artisan — he is an entrepreneur, employer, mentor, and skills developer.
His mission is to elevate artisan excellence by creating opportunities for young people to see trades as pathways to entrepreneurship, employment, and inclusive growth.
Impact: Building communities, empowering youth, and driving industrial development.
SANAA 2026 NOMINEE
*Xolisa Solo – Boilermaker*
“ _I build and repair things that matter.”_
Trained at West Coast TVET College, Xolisa discovered his passion through fitting and welding modules.
Today at AR Jones Engineering, he takes pride in every structure he builds, proving that determination can overcome challenges.
SANAA 2026 NOMINEE
*Daniel Ramnarain – Mechanical Fitter*
_“My hands keep water flowing—and operations alive.”_
A graduate of Tshwane South TVET College, Daniel works at Electrical and Pump Centre, ensuring Nelspruit’s water supply runs reliably.
His mission: diagnose problems, mentor apprentices, and protect communities through precision.
SANAA 2026 NOMINEE
*Tshepo Makgamatha – Bricklayer*
_“I build with precision, purpose and pride.”_
From Tshwane South TVET College, Tshepo mastered technical drawings and construction standards.
His journey reflects discipline and mentorship, inspiring young artisans to see bricklaying as a career of dignity and impact.
Eastern Cape, stand up!
Meet our two provincial nominees for the 2026 South African National Artisan Awards:
Daniel Meyburgh – Automotive Motor Mechanic, Port Elizabeth TVET College
Masixole Vutela – Electrician, King Hintsa TVET CollegeThese exceptional artisans are flying the Eastern Cape flag high through their skill, dedication and passion for their trades. We wish them all the best as they represent the Home of Legends on the national stage!