28/08/2026
COLLEGE MEETS-AND-GREETS SANAA NOMINEES
The College today held a meet-and-greet at its Corporate Centre with five alumni who have been nominated for the South African National Artisan Awards (SANAA), a national competition that recognises and celebrates the contributions of artisans across South Africa, highlighting the skills, creativity and socio-economic contributions of artisans who demonstrate excellence in trades offered through public Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges. This year's awards, the second annual SANAA, will be held on 5 September 2026 at the Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre, Johannesburg, OR Tambo Airport, under the theme "Changing Artisanal Identity and Status."
The five candidates who were nominated are:
Charlie Mabunda - (Diesel Mechanic)
Tinyiko Mashudu Malesa - (Diesel Mechanic)
Marvin Malulleke - (Pipe Fitter)
Curl Mthombeni - (Plumber)
Craven Sebokoana Moshwana - (Pipe Fitter)
For most of the nominees, this recognition already feels like a milestone. One nominee said she hopes to go all the way and use the moment to inspire others in her trade. "I see myself winning an award, to serve as an inspiration to others in the artisan trades," said Ms Curl Mthombeni. Another nominee shared a similar vision, describing the awards as both a dream and a reality he's determined to see through. "I see myself winning and also being recognised as a national artisan. It's a big game changer and a dream, but a reality that is happening. As someone who has worked hard, I'm looking forward to being seen and recognised nationally, and to continually go further. I also want to share the story of my artisanship journey and inspire others," said Mr Craven Moshwana. College Principal Dr M.L. Baloyi congratulated the nominees and wished them well as they prepare to represent Mopani TVET College and Limpopo province at the awards. "It is our wish that you understand that being nominated among the magnitude of artisans countrywide is a privilege you must not take for granted," he said. He reminded the nominees of what their nomination already represents. "You have already won by being nominated among other students. Your hard work and talent have been recognised," he said, adding that their presence at the awards is a reflection of what TVET colleges are capable of. The SANAA ceremony brings together nominees from TVET colleges across the country, with government, industry and skills-development stakeholders in attendance to celebrate the artisans shaping South Africa's future workforce.
The college has wished all its nominees the best of luck as they prepare to represent Mopani TVET College and the province at the national awards .
