In a moment that underscores the growing influence of African storytelling on the world stage, South African travelogue television series Breaking Down Borders Africa has earned international recognition after winning a Silver Telly Award in the Best Travel and Tourism Television Series category.
The announcement was made during the 47th edition of the prestigious Telly Awards, one of the world’s most respected honours celebrating excellence in video and television content across all screens. For a proudly African production created with limited resources but limitless ambition, the accolade marks a significant milestone not only for the series but for the continent’s creative industry as a whole.
For host and producer Paul Modjadji, the award represents far more than industry recognition. Speaking from New York following the announcement, Modjadji reflected on what the achievement means for African creators striving to tell authentic stories in a highly competitive global media landscape.
“It is a tremendous honour for the team to receive this stellar recognition,” he said. “The Telly Awards are the world’s largest honour recognizing video and television across all screens. The fact that a modest production shot on a shoestring budget could earn international acclaim is a testament to the power of African stories and the capabilities of our continent.”
Season one of Breaking Down Borders Africa was designed as a celebration of Africa’s vibrant dance culture, dynamic youth movements and diverse communities. Rather than focusing solely on destinations, the series explored the people, creativity and cultural expressions that continue to shape a rapidly evolving continent.
The recognition arrives during an already impressive chapter in the show’s journey. Currently airing on SABC 1, Breaking Down Borders Africa has steadily built momentum among audiences and industry stakeholders alike. The production was previously nominated for a National Arts and Culture Award (NACA) in the Best TV Documentary Series category at the 2025 Department of Arts and Culture Awards, further cementing its reputation as one of South Africa’s standout factual entertainment productions.
Its impact has also extended beyond Africa’s borders. The series was selected as one of the Top 6 international travel shows for the 2025 BET and Black Travel Summit Pitch Competition in Brazil, a distinction that highlighted its unique ability to showcase African narratives to global audiences seeking authentic cultural experiences.
The latest Telly Award win places the production among an elite group of international creators. Established in 1979, the Telly Awards honour outstanding achievements in television and video production across broadcast, digital and streaming platforms. The 2026 competition attracted nearly 14,000 entries from 55 countries, illustrating both the scale and prestige of the recognition.
Amanda Needham, Managing Director of the Telly Awards, noted that the video and entertainment landscape is experiencing unprecedented transformation.
“Video has never been more contested, more creative, or more consequential than it is right now,” she said. “The Telly Awards have had a front-row seat to this industry for 47 years, and today’s entertainment is happening in multiple formats, across every screen, and at every budget level.”
Against this backdrop, Breaking Down Borders Africa’s success serves as a powerful reminder that compelling storytelling can transcend budgets, borders and traditional industry limitations.
The future of the series is already taking shape. Production on Season Two is scheduled to begin in Spring 2026, introducing acclaimed South African poet, performer and media personality Botlhale Boikanyo as the new host. Her appointment signals an exciting new chapter for a programme that has consistently sought to amplify fresh African voices and perspectives.
Beyond the trophy itself, the award speaks to a broader shift occurring across the continent. African creators are increasingly commanding international attention through film, television, music, fashion, dance and visual arts. Audiences around the world are embracing stories that challenge outdated stereotypes and reveal the complexity, innovation and creativity that define modern Africa.
Modjadji believes the series forms part of this larger cultural movement.
“Africa’s time is now. From our films, TV, music, fashion, dance, and art, the world is captivated by the talent emerging from Africa. It is wonderful to be part of this cultural zeitgeist and to contribute to the rewriting of Africa’s narrative and potential.”
As Breaking Down Borders Africa prepares for its next chapter, its international success stands as a victory not only for one television series, but for a continent whose stories are increasingly impossible to ignore. From local screens to global stages, Africa’s creative voice continues to travel further than ever before—and the world is listening.
