The Rustenburg Civic Centre was transformed into a powerhouse of lights cameras and celebration on Friday night as the North West Media Awards 2025 held in partnership with the North West University NWU honoured the province’s most influential journalists broadcasters photographers and media innovators.
From the glamorous red carpet at 17h00 to the final announcements at 20h10 the event delivered everything expected from a world class awards ceremony sharp journalism inspiring speeches industry giants in the room and a powerful message about media’s role in safeguarding democracy.
⭐ A Celebration Rooted in Accountability and Storytelling
This year’s ceremony continued its mission of recognising media professionals who shape public opinion expose wrongdoing and elevate community voices. With NWU as a strategic partner the awards highlighted the critical link between academic excellence youth development and strong ethical journalism.
Opening remarks by hosts Hector Motivator and Lee Jay set a vibrant tone followed by a warm welcome from Cllr Shiela Mabale Huma Executive Mayor of the Rustenburg Local Municipality.
Mr Ananias Ndlovu founder of the North West Media Awards reminded attendees why these awards exist
“We honour those who tell the truth even when it is uncomfortable and those who serve communities with integrity.”
🎶 Tributes Keynotes and a Powerful Message From Presidency
A heartfelt tribute to the late DJ Motso former member of the North West Media Awards Board brought emotion to the hall celebrating a life dedicated to storytelling and community engagement.
Delivering the keynote address Hon Kenny Morolong Deputy Minister in the Presidency emphasised the importance of a free and fearless media in South Africa
“Without journalists there is no transparency Without transparency there is no democracy.”
NWU’s Mr Louis Jacobs followed with a message of support reaffirming the university’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of media professionals.
🏆 Award Winners Excellence Across Platforms
The highlight of the evening was the much anticipated Awards Ceremony from 19h20 a recognition of those shaping the province’s media landscape.
Social Media Platform of the Year
• Ms Dimakatso Genkoe Madibeng FM
• Kin Gmot Kgatleng FM
Current Affairs Programme of the Year
• Mr Boitumelo Korogo Motsweding FM
• Mr Ralph Makhanya Auditors Change Rizosiz
Newspaper of the Year
• Dr Kate Skinner AIP
• Mr Oscar Sefako Mosiane North West University
Radio Producer of the Year
• Cllr Selebeng Pule Rustenburg Local Municipality
• Morena Matsena You FM
More categories were celebrated throughout the night recognising TV radio print digital media emerging voices and community media excellence.
🎥 A Night That Elevated North West Media to the National Stage
This year’s awards had a strong focus on elevating provincial talent to national recognition showcasing how voices from North West shape conversations across South Africa.
With the ceremony broadcast as a Platinum North West TV Live Event the province’s media excellence reached thousands across digital platforms.
Why This Event Matters
• Strengthens press freedom in the North West and beyond
• Celebrates accountability journalism during a critical time in the country
• Showcases NWU’s leadership in developing future media professionals
• Honours community media often the lifeline of rural and township communities
• Encourages youth to enter media careers through recognition of young talent