This year marked a beautiful chapter for Namibia’s creative industry, as homegrown talent continued to shine both locally and beyond our borders. From music and film to media and digital influence, Namibian creators showed that their voices, stories, and artistry can compete on global stages. 

Their achievements not only celebrate individual excellence but also signal the steady growth, confidence, and international recognition of Namibia’s creative sector. Throughout the year, several outstanding individuals were honoured for their impact, innovation, and dedication to their craft.

Jackzee Tsaraeb, an entertainment producer from the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), was honoured in the Special Category at the inaugural African Media Awards 2025. He received the award for his documentary ‘The Evolution of Namibian Music’, which highlights the country’s musical journey and cultural heritage.

Namibian artist Shax Champion (20), born Andreas Shipanga, won the Illest Music Song of the Year award at the MTC Content Creator Awards (NAMCCA) in late 2025 for his hit song “On My Chest” featuring Musketeers. The award further cemented his rising star status and his distinctive amapiano sound within the Namibian music scene.

Luis Munana was honoured with Brand Influencer of the Year under the Africa Best of the Year 2025 initiative by Ranks Africa. The recognition celebrates individuals and brands shaping Africa’s growth story. Munana was selected from over 500 000 brand influencers across the continent for his creativity, authenticity and purposeful influence. He was also listed among the 100 Most Impactful Brand Influencers 2025.

Namibian actor and television personality Adriano Visagie co-hosted the 10th edition of the Sotigui Awards, one of Africa’s leading film celebrations, held in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. He shared the stage with Burkina Faso television personality Stéphanie Zongo. 

The Sotigui Awards honour African actors and comedians from across the continent and the diaspora. The event is organised by the Sotigui Academy and governed by APROCAD, in partnership with FESPACO, the Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou.

Selma Kamanya, former Miss Namibia and international model and advocate made waves at Miss World 2025 by finishing in the Top 8 and winning Miss World Top Model for Africa one of the highest international placements ever for a Namibian. 

National Arts Council of Namibia (NACN) Investment. The NACN invested over N$1 million into 30 creative projects, expanding support for artists, performers, and cultural initiatives across the country the largest investment yet, reflecting a growing professional ecosystem that nurtures innovation and inclusion.

In conclusion, the year also saw progress at a structural level. National consultations on a Creative Industries Strategy and increased investment by arts institutions signalled growing recognition of creativity as a contributor to economic development, job creation and cultural diplomacy.

The National Arts Council of Namibia expanded funding to dozens of creative projects, enabling artists across disciplines to produce, tour and professionalise their work. -pmukokobi@nepc.com.na