The awards, now in its second year, aim to celebrate the diversity and impact of South African voices across radio, television, digital media, animation, audiobooks and more.
The 2026 edition features an expanded list of categories, including Best Voiceover Demo, Best Audiobook Narrator, Best Animation Voiceover Performance, Best Indigenous Voiceover Performance, Best Commercial Voiceover Performance, Best Voiceover Artist — Newcomer, Best Social Media Voiceover, Revolutionary Voice of the Year and the South African Voiceover Artist of the Year award.
Olsen's nomination for Best Commercial Voiceover Performance places him among the country's top vocal talent recognised for originality, emotional impact, production quality and creative contribution to the industry, says the station.
As 5FM's official station voice and Radio Imaging Specialist, Olsen leads the creative and technical execution of all station audio, aiming to shape the sonic identity that millions of young South Africans recognise instantly. His work spans concept development, scripting, sound design, recording, mixing and mastering, adds the station.
Before joining 5FM in 2011, Olsen served as Station Producer and Lead Sound Engineer at other prominent regional and community radio stations, building a career rooted in broadcast craft and sound innovation. He also produces custom imaging for international stations through Benztown Branding, creating high-impact audio for markets across the United States.
"Opportunities like this don't come often and I am humbled to be a nominee for the 2026 awards. It's a culmination of my dedication to the craft of radio imaging, the artistry of creating immersive audio experiences and my passion for the auditory arts," says Olsen.
"In a time where generative AI threatens our industry, it's vital to shine a spotlight on the human element behind hardworking and passionate voiceover artists," adds Olsen. "These awards honour the often-unseen voices that shape everyday South Africans on TV, radio and social media."
"Brionne's voice and soundsmithing work is part of the heartbeat of 5FM – the signature sounds that SA's youth listen and move to. His creativity, technical mastery and ability to capture the energy of Mzansi's young movers and shakers make him one of the most highly rated and distinctive voices in the country," says Masi Mdingane, Business Manager for 5FM and Good Hope FM.
"We are incredibly proud of his nomination and proud to see his and 5FM's sonic personality and impact recognised at the highest level," adds Mdingane.
The South African Voiceover Awards announced nominees over the past week, with winners selected by an industry jury, concludes the station.
For more information, visit www.5fm.co.za. You can also follow 5FM on Facebook, X, or on Instagram.
*Image courtesy of contributor