Auctioneers honored for excellence
The South African Institute of Auctioneers (SAIA) recently honored top performers in the industry for 2025 at its annual awards ceremony. The awards celebrated excellence, innovation, transformation and dedication to the auctioneering craft in South Africa and recognises efforts of its members to furthering the industry and the profession. This year’s event was keenly contested and a testament to the professionalism and growing pride within the ranks of the auctioneering fraternity.
Re-elected and newly appointed Vice Chairperson, Joff Van Reenen commented on the calibre of this year’s winners, “These awards reflect not only professional excellence but the values that underpin our industry namely integrity, innovation, transformation and service. We are immensely proud of the role our members play in advancing the profession and giving back to society.”
The country’s top auctioneers were:
Auction of the Year – In2Assets for the record-breaking Telkom auction
The Auction of the Year Award was awarded to In2Assets for their record-breaking Telkom Auction, which captured national attention for its meticulous planning, exceptional execution and phenomenal results. The event stood out not only for its impressive financial success but also for its industry-best practices, market impact and bidder engagement, setting a new benchmark for South African auctions.
Highest bid auction award – In2Assets
In one of the most impressive displays of auctioneering this year, In2Assets also walked away with the Highest Bid Auction Award, having successfully auctioned 18 properties in under two hours for a collective total of R617 million. The event showcased the company’s unparalleled skill in attracting high-value assets and elite bidders, culminating in a record-setting performance that raised the bar for auctioneering in the country.
Best marketing campaign – In2Assets
Demonstrating its dominance across multiple categories, In2Assets claimed the Best Marketing Campaign Award for a campaign that stood out for its creativity, strategic execution and measurable success. The campaign significantly boosted visibility, bidder turnout and sales, illustrating the critical role that innovative marketing plays in modern auctioneering.
Charity auction of the year – Ariella Kuper (The Imibala Rupert Auction)
A standout moment of the evening was the presentation of the Charity Auction of the Year Award to Ariella Kuper for the Imibala Rupert Auction, which raised an extraordinary R13.5 million for underprivileged children. The event was lauded not only for its substantial charitable impact but also for its flawless organisation, widespread community involvement and the generous spirit it inspired throughout the industry.
Most improved / promising auctioneer – Tom Hodgson (In2Assets)
Tom Hodgson of In2Assets took home the Most Improved / Promising Auctioneer Award, a title reserved for the auctioneer who has shown the most significant growth over the past year. Judges praised Hodgson for his rapidly developing skillset, enhanced audience engagement and sharp uptick in sales performance. His mastery of auction dynamics and adaptability in diverse sales environments earned him accolades as a rising star to watch in South African auctioneering.
Transformation Award – Kwanele Boltina (Riley Auctions)
The Transformation Award was awarded to Kwanele Boltina of Riley Auctions for his outstanding commitment to empowerment and inclusivity within the auction industry. Boltina has played a pivotal role in driving transformation, opening doors for underrepresented communities and fostering a more equitable and accessible auction environment. His leadership and advocacy for social change have had a lasting impact across the industry.
SAIA Brand Ambassador Award – Tsitso Setai (Lokshin Auctions)
Flying the SAIA flag high, Tsitso Setai of Lokshin Auctions was honoured with the SAIA Brand Ambassador Award. Setai has been instrumental in promoting SAIA’s values and mission, enhancing the institute’s visibility both within the industry and among the broader public. His integrity, professionalism and commitment to ethical auctioneering have helped build trust and foster relationships across diverse market sectors.
Industry Pioneer Award – Andrew Miller (In2Assets)
Innovation took centre stage with Andrew Miller of In2Assets, recipient of the Industry Pioneer Award. Miller was recognised for his trailblazing contributions to the auction industry, including groundbreaking strategies and forward-thinking approaches that have redefined the way auctions are conducted in South Africa. His visionary leadership continues to influence the direction and evolution of the profession.
Hall of Fame
SAIA chairman John Cowing was announced as an inductee of the SAIA Hall of Fame alongside Lance Rademeyer and Michael James. The Hall of Fame Award is one of the most prestigious accolades presented by the South African Institute of Auctioneers (SAIA). It recognizes individuals who have achieved unparalleled success and made valuable contributions to the auction industry. This award celebrates careers marked by extraordinary personal and professional achievements, innovation, leadership and a lasting legacy that has significantly impacted both the industry and society.
The Hall of Fame Award celebrated three legendary figures in the auction industry:
- John Cowing, whose enduring legacy and achievements have left an indelible mark on the profession.
- Lance Rademeyer, a long-standing SAIA member with over 30 years of contributions.
- Michael James, one of South Africa’s first auctioneers, known for his notable auctions and pioneering spirit.
