BLOEMFONTIEN – For those pursuing a career on both the screen and stage, receiving coveted awards cements their legacy in both mediums. The illustrious Jane Mpholo has distinguished herself in this space through work that has earned her prestigious awards. A testament to this is the recent recognition by different entities, adding to the multiple awards in her cabinet.

During August, Mpholo was named one of the ten exceptional 2026 Proteas of Mzansi honorees and included in the 2026 Sunday World Heroic Women List. Earlier this year, the University of the Free State (UFS) named her a 2026 Kovsie Ambassador.

ALSO READ: Trail blazing Free State activist nominated for coveted accolade

The Proteas of Mzansi initiative, organised by Nation Builder, celebrates ten South African women each year who are making a meaningful difference in their fields and communities. The initiative honours women whose work creates hope, opens opportunities and contributes to a better country.

The versatile actor also received a special recognition award from the Free State World Digital publication.
Mpholo maintains each recognition is deeply meaningful while also reminding her of the responsibility that comes with her work. “These recognitions are humbling. They remind me that I am on the right path and that I must continue using my skills to create safe spaces, healing and opportunities for others,” said Mpholo.

“This is remarkable; these four awards I received in 2026 for national and international impact make it a remarkable year. This resonates well for the work of using theatre, film and storytelling to promote healing, create safe spaces, and inspire change,” said Mpholo.

The multiple-award winner receives recognition for her continued impactful community upliftment work and the social impact of using the performing arts as a vehicle. Mpholo brings about impactful change through her self-titled creative company, Jane Mpholo (Pty) Ltd. She is passionate about bold, socially engaged storytelling across theatre, film, and site-specific performance.

A Bachelor of Arts Honours (BA Hons) graduate in Drama and Theatre Arts from the UFS, Mpholo was named UFS Student of the Year in 2025. This recognition was for her leadership, innovation and contribution to transformation in the arts. As a performer, Mpholo featured in more than 50 productions, including Athol Fugard’s The Island directed by Dr Jerry Mofokeng wa Makhetha, earning critical acclaim.

Reflecting on the recognitions for her work, Mpholo remarked: “I am grateful for the recognition. It came at a time when I needed it most. The Nation Builder team and my fellow Proteas have been nothing short of amazing. They feel like family.”