Bokani Dyer has earned his first SAFTA, winning Best Achievement in Song for his work on the 2025 film Sabbatical, alongside collaborator Siyabonga Mhleli.
For the film, Dyer and Mhleli created an original score that underscores the emotional depth and narrative arc of the story, marking a significant moment in Dyer’s continued evolution as a composer.
Known primarily for his work as a jazz pianist, vocalist and bandleader, this award highlights Dyer’s expansive musical language and growing presence in film and screen scoring. The recognition not only celebrates the success of Sabbatical, but also signals a broader creative trajectory as he continues to explore new forms of storytelling through sound.
