The top 12 finalists for the 2025 ANNA Award have been announced. The prestigious art prize is dedicated to spotlighting and empowering young women artists from across the African continent.
Now in its fourth year, the ANNA Award is a collaboration between Latitudes and ANNA Pure Organic Pads, two female-led South African brands committed to uplifting women in both the creative and wellness industries.
“This year’s competition garnered over 800 entries from 38 countries, showcasing an extraordinary depth of talent and creative vision. The finalists represent a powerful and diverse cross-section of emerging African creativity,” says Roberta Coci, co-founder of Latitudes.
Among them are South Africa’s own Amy Rusch, Haneem Christian, and Tinyiko Makwakwa, alongside artists from Nigeria, Ethiopia, Sudan, Botswana, Egypt, Madagascar, and the African diaspora.
The ultimate winner, to be announced on Wednesday, 6 August 2025 during Women’s Month, will receive a R100,000 cash prize, a residency with the SAFFCA Foundation, a solo showcase at the 2026 RMB Latitudes Art Fair, and inclusion in the ANNA Award Collection.
Aldre Geldenhuys, Director of ANNA Pure Organic Pads and Liners, South Africa’s first locally produced, environmentally conscious sanitary range, says Johannesburg remains a beacon for women in the arts, a city where talent is nurtured, celebrated, and globally recognised.
“Through platforms like the ANNA Award, we continue to support the next generation of cultural leaders who are shaping the future with creativity, courage, and conviction,” Geldenhuys says.
Join the celebration and cast your vote for the Audience Award at Latitudes Online
Written by Lesego Montso