Open call: 2026 Indigenous Language iPendoring Awards

The awards, now in their 31st year, focus on promoting the use of indigenous languages across advertising, media and communication industries.

Key dates and entry details

• Entries are open via the official website: www.pendoring.co.za
• Closing date: 28 August 2026
• Awards ceremony: November 2026
• Entry fee structure
• Early bird deadline: 1 August 2026 (fees aligned with 2025 rates)
• 1–21 August 2026: 5% increase on 2025 fees
• 22–28 August 2026: 10% increase on 2025 fees
• Full fee details will be published on the official website

Scope and categories

The awards recognise work across multiple disciplines, including:

• Radio
• Design Communication
• Digital Communication
• Print Communication
• Integrated Campaigns
• Out of Home
• Live Communication
• Film
• Student categories

Participation is open to agencies, independent creators and organisations producing content in indigenous languages.

Industry positioning

Established to broaden a communications landscape historically dominated by English, the awards have expanded to include a wider range of creative sectors. These include publishing, digital content creation and filmmaking, reflecting changes in how audiences engage with media.

Umpetha Award

The top honour, the Umpetha Award, recognises campaigns that:

• Demonstrate high levels of creativity and cultural relevance
• Contain at least 70% indigenous language content

The winner receives:

• A trophy and certificate
• Entry into The One Show through a partnership with The One Club for Creativity

Previous winner

• Joe Public United won the 2025 Umpetha Award for the “Afrikaraoke” campaign (Client: SAB / Castle Milk Stout)

Awards and incentives

• Gold and Silver iPendoring trophies awarded across categories
• Cash prize for the Overall Student Winner

View the original call here.