A collaboration to shape culture

May 18, 2025

Video by Betway Premiership

In 2025, Nelson Makamo reimagined the very symbol of South African football, designed as the new Betway Premiership Lifetime Trophy, it marks a first: a commissioned sports trophy shaped by visual artistry.

Makamo’s creative journey spanned over 60 sketches, meeting with PSL Chairman Dr. Irvin “Iron Duke” Khoza to uncover the heartbeat of the league’s history. He combined research, community voices, and his own Limpopo roots to craft a symbol honoring:

Township legends and migrant workers
Deeper cultural roots represented by a tree design
A golden canopy symbolizing champions past and future

Photography by Betway Premiership

Makamo calls it “a symbol for all of us”, a trophy designed to make every fan feel a part of the celebration.

Upon its unveiling, opinions flooded social media. Some fans embraced its symbolism and artistry. The design itself earned praise for its originality and meaning. Makamo responded with sincerity:

“I’m grateful for the platform to bring art into sport.”

This collaboration was more than a commission, it was a creative act of faith. Makamo chose uncharted territory, knowing it would spark debate. Yet in doing so, he:

Elevated the way sport and design intersect
Precedented the inclusion of African artistic identity in major sports symbols
Risked misunderstanding to create something that endures

Now, future designers and cultural stakeholders can step into projects with confidence because he dared first.

This collaboration isn’t just about a bespoke trophy, it forms the connection of art and nation:

It honors memorable goals and generations of fans alike
It reaffirms that design can be spiritual, cultural, and proudly African
It positions Makamo as an intuitive cultural architect, unafraid to shape national landmarks

Art trunks

Culture in flight

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