At the Mpumalanga International Film Festival (MIFF), we don’t just screen films—we celebrate brilliance. Each year, MIFF shines a spotlight on the storytellers, risk-takers, and creative pioneers who dare to move hearts and challenge perspectives. Our awards honour the finest in cinematic artistry—from soul-stirring documentaries and boundary-breaking student films to gripping features and unforgettable African narratives.
The MIFF awards are not just accolades—they are launchpads. Handpicked by a diverse jury of acclaimed filmmakers, producers, and cultural thought leaders, our winners are chosen for their originality, technical mastery, and storytelling impact. Whether it’s a grassroots short film that shook a community or a feature that crossed continents, each award is a standing ovation to vision, passion, and craft.
To win at MIFF is to join a legacy of creators who are not only defining the future of African cinema but placing Mpumalanga on the global film map. From Best Feature Film to Best African Storytelling, these winners don’t just walk away with trophies—they carry the pride of a region, the promise of new doors opening, and the applause of audiences forever changed. Congratulations to the voices that dared, dreamed, and delivered—you are the soul of MIFF!
Main Award Categories for Submissions
- Best Feature Film – Awarded to a full-length film that demonstrates outstanding storytelling and technical execution.
- Best Short Film – Celebrates compelling storytelling in films under 40 minutes.
- Best Documentary – Honours powerful, truth-driven narratives that spark conversation and awareness.
- Best Student Film – Showcases promising new talent from film schools and young creatives.
- Best Animation – Awarded to a standout animated piece for creativity, design, and storytelling.
- Best African Storytelling – Recognizes exceptional work rooted in African culture, heritage, or language.
- Audience Choice Award – Voted for by MIFF audiences; a favourite film across all categories.
- Best Director – Awarded for visionary leadership behind the camera.
- Best Cinematography – Celebrates exceptional visual storytelling and camera work.
- Best Performance – Honours standout acting in a submitted film (lead or supporting role).