Dumakude Mayivuke Ndlovu Nominated for the Clevenard Media Award 2025

• Award Category: Lifetime Achievement in Creative Arts, Media, and Cultural Leadership

Palma de Mallorca, Spain — November 21, 2025 — For the first time, the vibrant Mediterranean city of Palma de Mallorca will host the prestigious Clevenard Media Award 2025, a landmark celebration spotlighting excellence in entertainment, entrepreneurship, fashion, innovation, and community empowerment. This event will unite visionary entrepreneurs, creatives, government figures, NGOs, and community leaders from across the globe to honor those who transform society through leadership, courage, and dedication.

Among the distinguished nominees is Dumakude Mayivuke Ndlovu, a cultural giant, playwright, filmmaker, journalist, and activist whose work has shaped South Africa’s creative industries and advanced the cause of freedom and identity across the African continent and beyond.

A Life Rooted in Activism and Resilience

Born in Orlando East, Soweto, on October 12, 1954, Ndlovu grew up amid the struggles of apartheid South Africa. His early activism began at Sekano Ntoane High School under the mentorship of Mr. Tom Manthata, where he became part of the South African Students Movement (SASM), inspired by Steve Biko’s Black Consciousness philosophy.

As a young journalist with The World Newspaper, he joined the Union of Black Journalists and worked closely with the Soweto Students Representative Council (SSRC), playing a pivotal role during the historic Soweto Uprising of 1976. His political and cultural engagement led to his exile, where his vision expanded globally.

Champion of Arts and Culture in Exile

In exile in Lesotho and later the United States, Ndlovu pursued studies at Hampton Institute and Hunter College, earning a BA in Theater and Film. In New York, he became a central figure in the surge of South African culture in the 1980s.

He partnered with Voza Rivers to stage groundbreaking productions such as Woza Albert! and Asinamali, later joining Lincoln Center to curate Woza Africa: A Festival of South African Plays in 1985 — still regarded as one of the most successful cultural showcases of its kind.

Through the Woza Afrika Foundation, he funded and mentored legendary South African artists including Gibson Kente, Ndaba Mhlongo, Mbongeni Ngema, and Hugh Masekela. His productions also featured global icons such as Miriam Makeba, Nina Simone, Burning Spear, and Ladysmith Black Mambazo, cementing his role as a bridge-builder between African and international audiences.

Returning to South Africa: Building Peace and Media Legacy

Ndlovu returned home in 1992, where he contributed to the National Peace Committee, co-producing the iconic Peace Song with Chicco Twala. This initiative mobilized millions of South Africans in a powerful call for unity during the fragile years of transition to democracy.

He also spearheaded documentaries such as Victims of Circumstances, amplifying the voices of communities torn apart by violence, and later served as a consultant for the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), ensuring a positive media portrayal of South Africa’s landmark 1999 elections.

As a creator, Ndlovu reshaped South African television with hits like:

• Muvhango (SABC 2): the first TshiVenda-language soap opera, now in its 26th season.
• Uzalo (SABC 1): South Africa’s most-watched Zulu drama, a trailblazer for KZN television production.
• Imbewu (ETV): a cross-cultural Durban-based drama exploring Zulu and Indian family dynamics.

His theatrical masterpieces, such as Sheila’s Day, Bergville Stories, The Game, and The Ritual, continue to inspire audiences worldwide.

Honored Legacy and Lasting Influence

In recognition of his lifelong contributions, Ndlovu has received two honorary doctorates — from the University of Venda (2011) and the University of Zululand (2022). His anthology, Woza Afrika: An Anthology of South African Plays, remains a cornerstone of African literature.

A husband and father of seven, he credits his late father, Thubhoyi Ndlovu, and Steve Biko as the greatest inspirations in his life journey.

A Cultural Icon Celebrated Globally

Duma Ndlovu’s nomination for the Clevenard Media Award 2025 is not only a recognition of his extraordinary career but also a tribute to his lifelong commitment to creativity, activism, and cultural leadership. His journey reflects resilience, vision, and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of the arts.

Event Details

• Date: Friday, November 21, 2025
• Venue: Calle Manacor, núm. 156, Palma 07007, Illes Balears, Spain
• Organizer: Clevenard SL (NIF B75809574)
  

About Clevenard

Clevenard is a pioneering international media and digital marketing company specializing in PR, networking, telecommunications, sourcing services, and consulting. With offices across Europe, Africa, and the UK, Clevenard is dedicated to promoting exceptional leaders, changemakers, and innovators. Through cross-border collaboration and global platforms, Clevenard empowers voices that inspire positive change worldwide.

Join Us – Be Part of History

The Clevenard Media Award 2025 is more than an event; it is a historic celebration of leadership, creativity, and cultural pride. Together, we celebrate excellence, inspire change, and shape the future.

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