Cape Town: Deputy President Paul Mashatile has praised the winners of the annual Ubuntu Awards as a source of inspiration for active citizenry. The Deputy President delivered the keynote address at the annual Ubuntu Awards held on Saturday evening at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.
According to South African Government News Agency, the awards, hosted by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, recognize South Africans and companies that proudly fly the country’s flag high on global platforms. “As has become custom, we have gathered in this fashion again during the week of Parliament’s opening to give due recognition to our patriots who fly the South African flag high on the world’s great stages. These patriots represent our country positively in various disciplines through their good deeds, talent, hard work, and determination towards excellence,” Mashatile stated.
The 2025 recipients of the awards include Kgothatso Montjane for the Ubuntu Sports Diplomacy Award, Tara Roos for the Ubuntu Youth Diplomacy Award, Lebohang ‘Lebo M’ Morake for the Ubuntu Arts and Cultural Diplomacy Award (Veteran), Ambassador Thenjiwe Mtintso for the OR Tambo Lifetime Achievement Award, Airlink for the Ubuntu Economic Diplomacy Award, Bernika Health for the Commendable Recognition Ubuntu Economic Award (Africa), Sanlam for the Ubuntu Economic Diplomacy (Global) Award, and the Nkosinathi Foundation for the Ubuntu Social Responsibility Award.
“These are individuals who have selflessly dedicated their time and resources to promote South African interests and values on the global stage. They have elevated South Africa’s stature worldwide through their participation in various disciplines, ranging from sports, music and performing arts, philanthropy, and good business practice,” Mashatile said. He further emphasized that these individuals’ vision, leadership, and entrepreneurial spirit inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
This year’s ceremony was held under the theme “South Africa G20 Presidency: Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability,” aligning with South Africa’s G20 Presidency. The Deputy President remarked that this presidency offers an opportunity to further the interests of poorer countries. “Our goals include promoting more equality in international governance and elevating Africa’s development agenda in ways that are more meaningful,” he noted.
Mashatile acknowledged the global challenges that continue to mount, such as geopolitical tension, economic inequality, climate change, and underdevelopment. He committed South Africa to working with G20 countries to harness the global community’s desire and capacity to address these issues.
Turning back to the awards nominees and recipients, Mashatile described them as a source of inspiration and highlighted the importance of representing South Africa in various fields. “While we only recognise a few individuals today, we are aware that thousands of people around the country have represented South Africa in a range of activities over the last year,” he said. Mashatile concluded by urging everyone to commit to the ideals of Ubuntu, striving to build an inclusive South Africa.