Cape Town, South Africa – October 2026
A passion for design, technical expertise and a desire to showcase South African creativity have earned False Bay TVET College’s, Mr Achmat Geyer, The Programme Head for Yacht and Boatbuilding, national recognition after his trophy designs were selected as the winning entries for 11 of the 13 trades represented at the South African National Artisan Awards (SANAA).
Mr Achmat Geyer
Mr Geyer’s achievement follows the SANAA National Trophy Design Competition, which invited students and artisan trainers from TVET colleges across South Africa to design the official trophies for the prestigious awards. The competition sought to celebrate technical mastery, innovation and national pride across 13 key trades.
His submission, titled “All Trades”, was awarded first place for 11 trades: Automotive Mechanic, Boilermaker, Bricklayer, Carpenter and Joiner, Diesel, Mechanical Fitter, Millwright, Pipe Fitter, Plumber, Rigger and Welder. The selection committee commended the design for its creativity, attention to detail and vision.
A distinctly South African design
For Mr Geyer, the project was an opportunity to combine his technical background with his passion for creativity.
“I wanted the trophies to have a distinctly South African identity,” says Geyer. “I drew inspiration from South African tribal and local art, using its patterns, shapes and forms and interpreting them in a modern way.”
With 13 different trades represented in the competition, Geyer sought to give each trophy its own identity while maintaining a common artistic theme throughout the collection.
His professional background also played an important role in the design process. As a qualified Marine Design Draughtsman and former employee of the South African Naval Dockyard, Geyer approached the project from both an artistic and technical perspective, considering not only the appearance of the trophies but also how the concepts could ultimately be manufactured.
A national platform for TVET talent
Geyer says the opportunity was particularly meaningful because it provided a platform to demonstrate the creativity and capabilities that exist within the TVET sector.
“It is a tremendous honour. For me, it is not only personal recognition. It is also an opportunity to showcase False Bay TVET College and demonstrate the creativity and design capability that exists within the TVET sector.”
The achievement was formally recognised at the SANAA Rite-of-Passage Ceremony held on 5 September 2026 at the Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre Johannesburg, where Geyer was scheduled to receive special recognition during the main presentation.
Although unforeseen circumstances prevented Geyer from attending the presentation personally, a colleague accepted the recognition on his behalf.
“For a designer, seeing an idea move from a drawing to a finished product is always a special moment,” he says.
Designing without expecting a reward
For Geyer, the motivation behind entering the competition was never primarily financial.
“When I entered the competition, there was no monetary prize announced, so I did not design the trophies expecting financial reward. I entered because I enjoy designing and wanted to take on the challenge.”
The announcement of a monetary prize on the day of the awards therefore came as an unexpected bonus.
Geyer believes the greater reward is the opportunity to contribute something meaningful to the sector and to see South African creativity represented on a national platform.
Inspiring the next generation
Geyer hopes the trophies will represent more than an award for those who receive them.
“I hope the recipients see the trophy as a symbol of skill, dedication, craftsmanship and excellence in their chosen trade.”
He also hopes that the project will encourage students and lecturers across the TVET sector to have confidence in their abilities and to put their ideas forward.
“At this stage of my career, I believe it is all about experience. Over the years, I have gained valuable knowledge and practical experience in design, and I enjoy using that experience to create something meaningful.”
For Geyer, the SANAA trophy project represents the value of remaining creative, sharing experience and contributing to the growth and visibility of the TVET sector.
The achievement is a proud moment for False Bay TVET College, highlighting the institution’s contribution to technical skills, innovation and creative talent and placing the College on a national platform alongside institutions from across South Africa.
ENDS
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