WATCH | Legendary Sowetan snapper Veli Nhlapo gets lifetime prize at SA Sport Awards

Sport, arts and culture minister Gayton McKenzie gave legendary Sowetan photographer Veli Nhlapo his flowers at the SA Sports Awards where he was handed the Steve Tshwete Lifetime Award.

Nhlapo earned much respect from his colleagues, politicians, entertainers, and the sporting community throughout his working career. He was recognised alongside Siya Vabaza-Booi and Selwyn Nathan during the awards ceremony on Sunday night.

WATCH | Recently retired Sowetan photographer Veli Nhlapo says he won't stop taking pictures until he dies. Nhlapo was given a Steve Tshwete Lifetime award by the minister of sport Gayton McKenzie during the SA Sport awards in Sun City on Sunday. Video: @RealNevilleK pic.twitter.com/TVp6EorTue

Nhlapo, who retired as a photographer at Sowetan in July, said receiving the award was an honour that humbled him deeply and thanked the organisers for recognising “my journey and for celebrating the work I have poured my heart into for so many years”.

He said he fell in love with sport 38 years ago, and that love has never left him.

“Over the decades, I have used my lens to promote and preserve the stories of our athletes across different sporting codes — starting with netball, then moving into soccer, boxing, basketball, and rugby.

“I have travelled across the country covering development sport because I have always believed that stars are not made; they are born. They come from villages, townships, and small towns far from the spotlight. My camera became a tool to give those young men and women hope, visibility, and a chance to be seen.

“One of the greatest joys of my career has been witnessing rising stars grow from humble beginnings to becoming national heroes, representing South Africa on international stages. There is nothing more fulfilling than knowing you played even a small part in their journey.”

He said being honoured with this award was more than recognition but a reminder that passion, consistency, and service to the craft truly matter.

“It is a celebration of every athlete I have photographed, every dusty field I have stood on, every moment I have captured,” he said in his speech.

“I’m not going to stop taking pictures; I’m only going to stop when I’m no longer alive,” he said. “I’m very emotional because of this award – I didn’t think I would ever get it. I don’t know what to say.”

Meanwhile, Akani Simbine was the biggest winner as he walked away with the Sports Star of the Year award, while Sportswoman of the Year went to Prudence Sekgodiso, and Sportsman of the Year was Pieter Coetze.

Sport Visual Journalist of the Year: Skhu Nkomphela, sport photographer.

Sportsman of the Year with a Disability: Puseletso Michael Mabote, para-athletics 400mT63.