The 2025 HSS Awards once again place a well-deserved spotlight on outstanding African literature. This year, we are proud to announce that two compelling titles from the continent—Home Scar by S.E. Bhamjee and Moving On by Barbara Ludman—have been shortlisted for awards in two distinct categories. These nominations underscore the growing recognition of African literary voices in global and regional spaces.
The HSS Awards, hosted by South Africa’s Department of Higher Education and Training in partnership with the Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS) Council, celebrate the power of literature to influence, educate, and reflect the social dynamics of the continent. With the 2025 edition, African literature continues to prove its relevance and resilience in a fast-changing world.
Barbara Ludman’s ‘Moving On’ – Shortlisted for Best Fiction
Moving On, a compelling collection of short stories by Barbara Ludman, has made it to the 2025 shortlist for Best Fiction. Through a series of deeply introspective narratives, Ludman masterfully weaves tales of personal transformation, social challenges, and emotional survival. Set against varied African backdrops, the stories explore themes such as grief, political memory, love, and exile.
The judges praised Moving On for its emotional depth and narrative clarity, calling it “an exceptional contribution to contemporary African literature, balancing realism and literary craftsmanship.” The title adds a valuable layer to the ever-expanding body of African fiction and demonstrates the impact of short story form in reflecting real African experiences.
To learn more about Barbara Ludman’s literary contributions, visit her official website.
‘Home Scar’ by S.E. Bhamjee – Nominated in the Emerging Author Category
Home Scar by S.E. Bhamjee has garnered attention as a finalist in the Emerging Author category. This debut novel resonates with themes of identity, diaspora, and intergenerational trauma. The story centers on a young protagonist navigating the scars of apartheid and postcolonial transitions in Southern Africa while reconciling personal and cultural dislocation.
Bhamjee’s narrative style blends poetic prose with political undertones, making Home Scar an unforgettable debut. It’s no surprise that the judges acknowledged it as “a bold and promising voice in African fiction, blending historical insight with compelling character arcs.”
The book marks Bhamjee’s entrance into African literature with force, and readers are eagerly anticipating future works. More about his work can be found on his official site.
The Impact of the HSS Awards on African Literature
The recognition of Home Scar and Moving On at the 2025 HSS Awards demonstrates the awards’ commitment to promoting African literature and giving voice to underrepresented narratives. By highlighting both seasoned and emerging writers, the awards help build a robust literary culture across the continent.
Previous winners of the HSS Awards have gone on to influence curricula at African universities, secure international publishing deals, and be translated into multiple languages. This year’s nominees continue that tradition of excellence and innovation in African fiction.
For a full list of 2025 HSS Awards nominees, visit the official announcement page.
Why These Titles Matter in the African Literary Landscape
Both Home Scar and Moving On offer fresh lenses through which to view African life—whether it’s through diaspora narratives, post-apartheid memory, or the resilience of African women. These works are not only literary accomplishments; they are cultural artifacts that preserve and interrogate African histories.
As African literature continues to gain global traction, books like these contribute meaningfully to ongoing conversations about identity, justice, and belonging. Their inclusion in the 2025 HSS Awards affirms their importance and amplifies their reach.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for African Literature
The 2025 HSS Awards celebrate the power of storytelling in African literature, and the shortlisted titles Home Scar and Moving On are testaments to the continent’s vibrant and evolving literary scene. As these authors gain greater recognition, they inspire a new generation of African writers to explore, reflect, and redefine their narratives.
We look forward to the awards ceremony and to seeing how these titles continue to impact the world of African literature. For more news and updates, explore our literature news section.
HSS Awards | www.hssonline.org.za
Related Articles: Past HSS Award Winners
By HSS Literary News | July 3, 2025
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