The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme, proudly supported by the Nedbank Arts Affinity and MTN South Africa, is a transformative initiative designed to nurture and empower young South African artists. As the 2025 edition of the programme approaches, aspiring performers and visual artists across the country are gearing up for an opportunity that could change their lives. The Nyoloha Scholarship is more than just financial aid; it is a gateway to professional development, artistic growth, and a future in the creative industries.
This article delves into the details of the 2025 ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme, exploring its objectives, eligibility criteria, application process, and the life-changing opportunities it offers to young creatives.
What is the Nyoloha Scholarship?
The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme is an undergraduate scholarship initiative aimed at providing opportunities for school leavers to pursue tertiary qualifications in the creative and performing arts. The programme is designed to identify and support talented, ambitious young people from diverse backgrounds, offering them a platform to showcase their skills and gain invaluable experience in the professional arts sector.
The scholarship covers higher education expenses, including registration fees, tuition fees, and study materials, up to R5,000 per year. While it does not cover accommodation, transport, or living expenses, the programme provides finalists with additional support during the scholarship finals week, including meals, travel, and accommodation.
The Nyoloha Scholarship is a beacon of hope for young artists who face financial barriers to accessing quality education in the arts. By partnering with institutions and organisations like Nedbank and MTN South Africa, the programme ensures that talented individuals are given the tools they need to succeed in their chosen disciplines.
Key Dates for the 2025 Nyoloha Scholarship Programme
The 2025 ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme is structured around a series of workshops, finals week, and a grand gala event. Here are the key dates to mark on your calendar:
- Bi-weekly Workshops: 7 June – 16 August 2025
- Finals Week: 28 September – 5 October 2025 (Johannesburg, Gauteng)
- Exhibition Event: 2 October 2025
- Gala Night: 4 October 2025
During finals week, participants will have the opportunity to showcase their talents in front of a panel of judges and industry professionals. The gala night, a programme highlight, will feature the announcement of the scholarship winners.
Eligibility Criteria for the 2025 Nyoloha Scholarship
To be considered for the 2025 ACT Nyoloha Scholarship, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Age: Between 17 and 25 years old.
- Education: Currently in Grade 12 OR have university exemption.
- Financial Need: Require financial assistance to pursue a qualification in performing or visual arts at a South African tertiary or accredited institution, with studies commencing in 2026.
- Current Enrollment: Not currently registered at a tertiary or accredited institution for the 2025 academic year.
- Prior Qualifications: Do not have an existing tertiary qualification in an arts or creative discipline from a South African institution.
- Professional Status: Not considered a professional artist (i.e., have not received specialized training or are not employed full-time in their artistic discipline).
- Previous Participation: Not a 2024 ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme participant or finalist.
- Commitment: Willing and able to commit to the 6-month duration of the programme.
- Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen.
Application Requirements
Applicants are required to submit a comprehensive application, including the following supporting documents:
- ID Copy: Front and back of a valid South African ID.
- Academic Results: Previous semester or last academic results.
- Consent Form: A signed consent form, downloadable from the ACT website.
- Headshot: A professional headshot photograph.
- Creative Submission:
- Performing Arts: A 2-minute video showcasing talent in singing, dance, or acting.
- Visual Arts: Four original pieces of work, including one portrait, one landscape, and two original artworks, along with a short bio and artist statement.
Performing Arts Video Submission Guidelines
For those applying in the performing arts category, the video submission is a critical component of the application. Here are the guidelines for each discipline:
Singing
- Prepare a song of your choice in any genre that best showcases your vocal range, technique, and overall talent.
- You may use a backtrack or instruments as accompaniment.
Dance
- Prepare a dance or movement piece that highlights your range and talent.
Acting
- Prepare a monologue from the provided list (Addendum 2) that showcases your acting range and talent.
- Do not use your own material.
General Video Tips
- Film in a room with good lighting and a plain background.
- Use landscape/horizontal mode.
- Avoid locations with background noise or echo.
- No participation from parents, guardians, or teachers in the video.
- Minimal props are allowed (e.g., table, chair, or musical instruments for singing recordings).
Visual Arts Submission Guidelines
For digital and visual arts applicants, the submission must include:
- Four original pieces of work: one portrait, one landscape, and two original artworks.
- A short bio (70–100 words).
- An artist statement (70–100 words) detailing the inspiration and creation process behind the artworks.
How to Apply
Applications for the 2025 ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme can be submitted online via the official application form: Nyoloha Scholarship Application Form.
Applicants are encouraged to review the detailed application guidelines on the ACT website: ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Guidelines. For further inquiries, contact the ACT team at 010 023 0899 or email info@act.org.za.
The Impact of the Nyoloha Scholarship
The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme is more than just a financial aid initiative; it is a life-changing opportunity for young artists to develop their skills, build networks, and gain exposure to the professional arts industry. By participating in the programme, finalists gain access to:
- Professional Workshops: Bi-weekly sessions led by industry experts to hone their craft.
- Networking Opportunities: Connections with peers, mentors, and professionals in the arts sector.
- Exhibition and Gala Events: Platforms to showcase their work and celebrate their achievements.
- Scholarship Awards: Financial support to pursue tertiary education in their chosen discipline.
The programme also fosters a sense of community among participants, encouraging collaboration and mutual support. For many, the Nyoloha Scholarship is the first step toward a successful career in the arts.
Why Apply for the Nyoloha Scholarship?
The creative and performing arts are vital to South Africa’s cultural identity and economic growth. However, many talented individuals face significant barriers to accessing quality education and professional opportunities. The Nyoloha Scholarship addresses these challenges by providing financial support, mentorship, and exposure to the arts industry.
For young artists, the programme offers a chance to turn their passion into a profession. Whether you dream of becoming a singer, dancer, actor, or visual artist, the Nyoloha Scholarship can help you achieve your goals.
Conclusion
The 2025 ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme is a beacon of hope for South Africa’s next generation of creative talent. By providing financial assistance, professional development, and a platform to showcase their skills, the programme empowers young artists to pursue their dreams and contribute to the vibrant cultural landscape of the country.
If you are a talented, ambitious young artist with a passion for the creative or performing arts, don’t miss this opportunity. Apply for the 2025 Nyoloha Scholarship today and take the first step toward a brighter future in the arts.
For more information, visit the ACT website or contact the programme team directly. The deadline for applications is fast approaching, so act now and let your talent shine!