Basadi in Music Awards (BIMA) is back for its second instalment after a memorable debut in 2022. Founded by entertainment maven Hloni Modise-Matau, BIMA exclusively honours South African women in music.

This year, Nando’s, South Africa’s favourite PERi-PERi chicken restaurant brand, fans the flames, coming onboard as a sponsor to introduce a new category: the Emerging Artist of the Year. The brand, known as much for its wit as its chicken, embarks on a search for the next big thing in music.

The five Emerging Artist nominees will be selected by Nando’s music partner, Bridges For Music. The nominations will then be open to the public for voting. The winner’s prizes include a music bursary at the Bridges Academy valued at R100 000, and an industry mentorship – tools to help the winner to embark on the next step in their music career.

The Basadi in Music Awards extend beyond the microphone to honour music journalists, broadcasters and stylists. The first event, hosted at Gallagher Convention Centre on 15 October 2022, hosted by Anele “Ney the Bae” Zondo and Nomuzi “Moozlie” Mabena, was a phenomenal success. It was a glamorous red-carpet affair with the dress theme of ball gowns, tiaras and sneakers.

The inaugural BISA event culminated with the acknowledgement of women in music who have shattered glass ceilings. Notable winners included Boohle (Sampra Amapiano Artist of the Year), Phumla Music (Kaya959 Afropop Artist of the Year), Lizwi (Sofnfree Dance Artist of the Year), Zodwa Mabena (AC Wines Jazz Artist of the Year) and Skye Wanda (SAMRO Songwriter of the Year).

Mam’ Abigail Kubeka and Mam’ Yvonne Chaka Chaka were presented with Lifetime Achievement awards.

#BIMA2023 will take place in August 2023 at the Joburg Theatre. Nominations will open on Wednesday, 19 April 2023, across 24 categories. Nominations for the Nando’s Emerging Artist of the Year category will be facilitated through the Bridges For Music online and social platform