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Established in 2006 at the 2nd AGM of the PSASA, the Stef du Plessis Award was awarded for the first time at the 3rd annual convention of the PSASA in April 2008, and will be awarded annually thereafter (it was felt that PSASA needed to build up some of its own history prior to nominating the first recipient). It is envisaged that this award will become the industry's most cherished award.

This Award recognises a PSASA member whose outstanding contribution to the association and to the speaking industry over the years have earned the utmost respect, honour and admiration in the association and the profession. Their actions have consistently epitomised sharing, guiding, supporting and encouragement of other members. They have been instrumental in growing the speaking industry as a whole. Their commitment to excellence and professionalism as a professional speaker provides a role model for us all.

There will be only one recipient per annum. The award recipient will receive a floating trophy, and a miniature replica to keep. Their names are inscribed on the trophy forever and they may use the title "Recipient of the Stef du Plessis Award" in their signature and on stationery. The award is made at the gala awards evening of the annual convention, and is the climax of the evening.

A recipient of the Stef du Plessis Award can also be an existing inductee in to the SA Speaker's Hall of Fame, or can receive this award in the same year as being inducted in to the SA Speaker's Hall of Fame.

Nominations, can be from any category of membership (nominating members must be in good standing in order to nominate), but must be seconded by a professional member. The judging panel is made up of the National President (Panel Chair), the last Stef du Plessis Award Winner, plus two senior past award winners or Association Icons as determined by the PSASA National Executive. All nominations are circulated to the panel. The panel is asked to assign votes to their top three applications in the following format 3 votes for 1st, 2 votes for 2nd, 1 vote for 3rd. Votes are forwarded to the panel chair, who collates votes. A teleconference is then held with all panel members to agree the winner.

In the first year (2008) the past members of the panel were industry icons plus the Immediate Past President, as there was no existing recipient. From the 2nd year (2009), the IPP will be replaced by the previous year's winner. Sitting members of the PSASA Board are only eligible for the award once 5 years service (not necessarily consecutive) have been served*. The current PSASA President is not eligible for the award under any circumstances.

Nominations for The Stef du Plessis Award are evaluated on the following criteria:

1. Accomplishments (presenting, business & community)
2. Service to PSASA (national & chapter)
3. Service to members (generally and individually)
4. Contribution to the community (optional)
5. Consistent compliance with the PSASA Code of Ethics
6. Enjoy a reputable reputation as an upstanding member of the PSASA and be in good standing
7. As a minimum, nominees must be a Professional PSASA Member of at least 3 years standing at the time of receipt of the award.

* This criteria serves to avoid a conflict of interest. Past Board members with as little as one day’s service may receive the award once they are no longer Board members.

Every field is mandatory, i.e. you must please fill it in.

Please note that no current National or Chapter board member is eligible to be nominated. Any enquiries may be directed to Nikki Bakker. The final date for nominations is 28 February 2010 10h00.