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]]>Standing ground, serving communities: Boikanyo Malepe reflects on journalism in 2025
Telling stories in multiple languages allowed her to connect more deeply with communities and produce reporting that felt authentic and grounded. Navigating sensitive issues and a competitive media environment strengthened her resilience, editorial discipline, and commitment to ethical, people-driven journalism.
A defining challenge of 2025 was the constant need to defend MDNtv’s space as an online media platform. There were moments where other media platforms attempted to undermine or marginalise our work, often behaving as though digital journalism was secondary or less legitimate.
Standing firm required confidence, resilience, and a strong belief in the relevance of digital media. These experiences reinforced the importance of innovation, credibility, and consistency in proving that online journalism is not an alternative, but an essential pillar of modern media.
The most impactful story covered in 2025 was that of Lebogang Machaba from Bogom, Limpopo, who started a hair products business using money from a Sassa child support grant.
Her journey from unemployment to becoming a self-employed entrepreneur, later receiving government funding and creating jobs for other young people, inspired many in a community facing high unemployment. The story resonated because it highlighted resilience, innovation, and the power of turning limited resources into opportunity.
Nhlanhla Mkwanazi was identified as the most influential news maker of 2025.
His media briefing had a profound national impact, directly leading to the establishment of a commission of inquiry and an ad hoc committee to investigate the country’s security affairs.
The consequences of this moment extended beyond headlines, triggering formal oversight processes and reshaping the national conversation on governance and security.
MDNtv was nominated as South African of the Year for its consistent visibility, credibility, and public impact.
The platform played a critical role in ensuring communities received accurate and timely information, particularly on issues that directly affect people’s daily lives. Winning Online Media House of the Year at the North West Media Awards affirmed MDNtv’s growing influence and commitment to ethical journalism.
Throughout 2025, integrity remained non-negotiable.
Refusing to report unverified information and rejecting opportunities that could compromise credibility protected both MDNtv’s reputation and the trust of the communities it serves.
In 2026, the goal is to be a fearless, community-centred journalist and activist.
Strengthening investigative skills, digital storytelling, and continued mentorship will support reporting that brings positive change and upholds ethical journalism.
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]]>The post Shaping conversations and driving impact: Radebe Merci reflects on media influence in 2025 appeared first on MDNtv.
]]>In a media environment where digital platforms shape public opinion at unprecedented speed, her role extended beyond promotion. It focused on shaping conversations, amplifying socially meaningful stories, and ensuring that people driven journalism reached audiences where it mattered most.
2025 marked a transformative period. As a trend setter, her focus was on amplifying stories that resonated with the public and sparked national conversations across digital platforms. Seeing MDNtv stories trend while maintaining integrity reinforced the power of ethical digital strategy in journalism.
The most impactful stories were those that achieved virality without losing social relevance. These stories raised awareness, encouraged accountability, and demonstrated that social media can be a powerful tool for community engagement when guided by responsibility.
The news maker of the year was identified as a leader whose actions consistently shaped public discourse across digital platforms. Their influence drove debate, accountability, and nationwide conversations.
The South African of the Year was recognised as the ordinary citizen. Through digital platforms, everyday South Africans highlighted injustice, uplifted communities, and demanded accountability, proving the strength of collective voice.
Accuracy, responsible posting, and ethical storytelling remained central to all digital strategy decisions, even when content trended. Protecting dignity, verifying information, and avoiding misinformation strengthened trust and credibility.
In 2026, the focus is on becoming a stronger digital first strategist who combines influence with investigative depth. Support in advanced media training, investigative exposure, and digital storytelling tools will further strengthen MDNtv’s impact.
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]]>The post On the pulse of global innovation: Nonn Botha reflects on journalism in 2025 appeared first on MDNtv.
]]>On the pulse of global innovation: Nonn Botha reflects on journalism in 2025
From global platforms to ground-level conversations, Botha’s work throughout the year demonstrates how international reporting can remain firmly rooted in the lived realities of ordinary South Africans.
A year on the pulse of innovation
Reflecting on the year, Botha describes 2025 as a period in which MDNtv was firmly on the pulse of innovation.
The newsroom embraced new formats and platforms to ensure South African voices were present in global conversations. This approach required adaptability, creativity, and the courage to move beyond conventional reporting models.
The most impactful story of 2025
Among the most defining stories of the year was MDNtv’s coverage of the G20 Pop Up Online Radio Station.
The initiative went beyond traditional broadcasting by creating a real time space where global policy discussions intersected with grassroots perspectives. It allowed ordinary citizens to engage with international conversations in a direct and meaningful way.
News Maker of the Year
Botha nominated Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala as News Maker of the Year, describing him as a mirror of who we have become as a society.
The story sparked national reflection and debate, highlighting deeper questions about values, accountability, influence, and the social climate shaping South Africa.
South African of the Year
In a strong affirmation of belief, Botha nominated MDNtv as South African of the Year.
As a people-driven independent media house, MDNtv continues to prioritise community voices, ethical reporting, and accessibility. From taxi ranks to international summits, MDNtv remains committed to placing the public at the centre of the national conversation.
Ethics and responsibility
Ethical journalism remained central throughout 2025.
Speaking to everyone with respect, from taxi drivers at Bree Street Taxi Rank to national and international leaders, was a guiding principle in ensuring dignity, trust, and credibility in reporting.
Looking ahead to 2026
Looking to 2026, Botha aims to travel more extensively and produce more documentary-style reporting.
A key focus will be strengthening camera and visual storytelling skills to deliver deeper, more immersive journalism that brings global stories closer to the people.
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