Arts & Culture Trust Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2026: Your Gateway to a Creative Career

Arts & Culture Trust Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2026: Your Gateway to a Creative Career

Applications are now open for the 2026 Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) Nyoloha Scholarship Programme, a transformative initiative designed for aspiring artists and creatives in South Africa. This programme offers school leavers the chance to pursue undergraduate studies in performing, visual, and digital arts, while gaining mentorship, professional exposure, and industry connections that pave the way for sustainable careers in the creative economy.

Supported by Nedbank, Sun International, and MTN South Africa, the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme has a proven track record of discovering and nurturing talented individuals from across the country.

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Table of Contents

• Programme Overview
• Programme Highlights
• Eligibility Criteria
• Application Process
• Benefits of Participation
• Call to Action

Programme Overview

The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme is an undergraduate scholarship initiative that identifies promising talent in the performing, visual, and digital arts. The programme combines rigorous mentorship, hands-on workshops, and live showcases to ensure participants gain real-world experience.

Each year, the programme awards two full scholarships, each valued at up to R300,000, for studies in Performing Arts and Visual/Digital Arts at accredited South African tertiary institutions.

Participants not only receive financial support but also join a growing alumni network that connects them with industry professionals and creative opportunities nationwide.

Programme Highlights

The 2026 ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme offers several key advantages for emerging creatives:

• National Talent Search: Candidates are selected through auditions and portfolio reviews, ensuring nationwide access for aspiring artists.
• Mentorship and Training: Participants undergo three months of mentorship and workshops led by experienced industry leaders.
• Professional Exposure: The programme culminates in visual arts exhibitions and performing arts showcases of finalists’ work.
• Networking Opportunities: Participants join a dynamic alumni network, facilitating connections to potential collaborators, employers, and creative projects.
• Financial Support: Two full scholarships are awarded annually, covering tuition and study-related expenses.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Age: Between 17 and 25 years old.
• Education: Currently in Grade 12 or holding university exemption.
• Financial Need: Applicants must require financial assistance to pursue tertiary studies in performing or visual arts at a South African accredited institution starting in 2027.
• Enrollment Status: Not registered at a tertiary institution for the 2026 academic year.
• Academic Background: No existing tertiary qualification in an arts or creative discipline from a South African accredited institution.
• Professional Status: Not considered a professional artist (no full-time employment or specialized training in the artistic discipline).
• Programme History: Not a 2025 ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme participant or finalist.
• Commitment: Willing and able to participate in the six-month programme.

Meeting these criteria ensures a fair and competitive selection process, targeting applicants who will benefit most from the programme’s mentorship and professional development opportunities.

Application Process

Applying to the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme involves several steps designed to identify genuine talent:

• Step 1: Visit the Official Webpage of the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme.
• Step 2: Complete the online application form with personal, academic, and creative information.
• Step 3: Submit required supporting documents, including proof of age, academic records, and a portfolio or performance sample.
• Step 4: Attend auditions or portfolio reviews as scheduled by the programme.
• Step 5: Finalists are selected and invited to participate in mentorship workshops and the programme’s showcase events.

Application Deadline: 5 April 2026. Ensure your submission is complete before this date to be considered for the scholarship.

Benefits of Participation

Joining the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme equips applicants with skills and opportunities beyond financial support:

• Professional Mentorship: Gain insights from industry leaders who guide participants in career planning, creative techniques, and networking.
• Showcase Opportunities: Present your work in public exhibitions and performances, increasing visibility within the creative sector.
• Alumni Connections: Access a network of past graduates who can offer advice, collaboration opportunities, and career leads.
• Skill Development: Participate in workshops focused on both technical and soft skills relevant to the arts and creative industries.
• Career Pathways: Learn about sustainable careers in the creative economy, including freelancing, entrepreneurship, and employment options.

Call to Action

If you are a passionate young artist looking to pursue tertiary studies in the arts, the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme offers the mentorship, resources, and financial support to launch your career.

Apply before 5 April 2026 to take part in this life-changing opportunity. Visit the Official Webpage of the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme for full application details, eligibility guidelines, and submission instructions.