MBABANE — The search is officially on to honour the country’s shining stars, trailblazing entrepreneurs and cultural icons as nominations for the Eswatini Lifestyle Awards (ELA) 2026 officially open.
Founded by renowned local master of ceremonies and entertainment powerhouse Jumbo Khumalo, the awards platform has firmly established itself as a premier fixture on the national calendar. Over the past few years, the ELA platform has evolved significantly, notably marked by strategic venue expansions, prominent corporate partnerships and a growing footprint that bridges the gap between commercial enterprise, lifestyle culture and social impact.
Designed to shine a light on those who continuously push boundaries, the awards recognise the resilience, creativity and dedication driving Eswatini’s economic and cultural landscape forward. Speaking on the launch of this year’s nomination phase, Founder Jumbo Khumalo emphasised the inclusive and community-driven nature of the initiative.
“We encourage everyone to take part in the Eswatini Lifestyle Awards 2026 nominations by nominating individuals, businesses and personalities who are making a meaningful impact in Eswatini,” Khumalo shared in an exclusive interview. “This platform belongs to the people, and it is vital that we uplift the voices and efforts of those shaping our communities for the better.”
The 2026 edition features an expansive and comprehensive line-up of 20 distinct categories, ensuring that excellence across commerce, arts, advocacy and lifestyle is thoroughly recognised. The broad spectrum of categories allows everyday citizens to champion hard workers from grassroots initiatives to corporate boardrooms.
The categories open for public nomination include the following categories
1. Businessperson of the Year
- 2. Agric-Business of the Year
- 3. Youth-Owned Business of the Year
- 4. Woman-Owned Business of the Year
- 5. Socially Responsible Business of the Year
- 6. Corporate Figure of the Year
- 7. Content Creator of the Year
- 8. Sports Person of the Year
- 9. Swazi Culture Personality of the Year
- 10. Fashion Person/Model of the Year
- 11. Artist of the Year
- 12. GBV Advocate of the Year
- 13.HIV/AIDS Advocate of the Year
- 14. Mental Health Advocate of the Year
- 15. Charity Person of the Year
In a move designed to encourage maximum participation from every corner of the kingdom, the organising committee has confirmed that the entire nomination process is completely free of charge. “Nominations are completely free, and the process is seamless and easy,” Khumalo noted.
Members of the public, corporate entities and community groups can cast their votes and submit nominations by visiting the official portal at www.theELAcenter.com. Supporters are encouraged to rally behind their favourite local businesses, creatives and change-makers before the closing deadlines to ensure deserving nominees secure their spots on the official shortlist.
Leave a comment