The editor of Vista a community newspaper in Welkom from Novus Media Community News, Marti Will, won a top prize in the Vodacom Journalist of the year Awards in the Free State, Northern Cape, North West and Limpopo region.
Media professionals across these provinces are celebrating achievements in 12 categories, with journalists presenting exceptional entries that highlight the very best of their work over the past year. The prize giving was held in Bloemfontein on Wednesday 26 November.
This year, Vodacom received more than 1 330 submissions from journalists nationwide, exceeding last year’s 1 200 entries. These provinces contributed 178 remarkable entries.
Will, a veteran journalist with 36 years experience, won the coveted prize for live reporting/breaking news for her court reporting titled “Court hears horror details” on the alleged abuse of a senior citizen in Welkom.
Will also received a second place (commendation) in the category for politics.
Evah Mthimunye, Vodacom South Africa’s Managing Executive for the Central Region, said in an era of artificial intelligence and digital platforms, credible journalism is crucial. “Traditional media holds power accountable and ensures transparency. Vodacom South Africa proudly honours excellence in journalism, highlighting its vital role in society and demonstrating our ongoing commitment to the media industry.”
“Vodacom is deeply invested in the Central Region and remains committed to supporting the communities in which we operate. This year, we are investing more than R400 million to expand network infrastructure, enhance capacity and resilience, and empower communities – especially in underserved areas across the Free State and Northern Cape. Our investment in education has uplifted Schools of Excellence and Early Childhood Development centres, benefitting 6 654 learners and young children. Through partnerships and targeted support, we are bridging the digital divide, equipping learners with future-ready skills, and strengthening the pipeline of skilled graduates entering the economy,” she added.
Ryland Fisher, with more than 45 years of experience in the media industry as an editor, journalist and columnist, continues to serve as the convener of the judging panel. The judging panel remains unchanged from last year and includes Arthur Goldstuck, Collin Nxumalo, Dr Elna Rossouw, Obed Zilwa, Advocate Robin Sewlal, Neo Ntsoma, Patricia McCracken, Professor Gilbert Motsaathebe, Manelisi Dubase, Portia Kobue and Jovial Rantao.
“The experienced judging panel had vigorous debate about the winners, because the quality of entrants were once again very good. I extend our gratitude to the panel for their hard work and dedication in recognising the country’s top media talent,” said Fisher.
Charne Kemp, correspondent for another Novus Newspaper NoordKaapBulletin, won prizes for reporting on financial and economical matters.
The regional winners will compete against other regional winners for the national title. The national winners will be announced on 4 December at an awards ceremony where they will each receive
R10 000, while the overall Vodacom Journalist of the Year titleholder will win R100 000.
