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.

Defending digital 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 of 2025

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.

News Maker of the Year

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.

South African of the Year

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.

Ethics and responsibility

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.

Looking ahead to 2026

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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In remembrance of the former President and his passion to promote education, the Free State Provincial Government will commemorate the day with the official opening of the Qibing Community Library in Wepener on Friday, 18 July 2025.

Under the theme: “It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequality”, Free State Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae will hand over the library to the community and engage in a series of initiatives to give back to the community.

The state-of-the-art library built at the tune of R23 million will fulfil the information needs of the community. The library is envisaged to assist in uplifting the community through the provision of educational and skills development resources as well as access to information.

The well-furnished library boasts children and adult lending sections, as well as a computer room equipped with 18 computers, providing free internet access, e-mail, and word processing facilities.

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” This powerful quote from former President Mandela calls on stakeholders to participate in efforts to improve the education of children and help the communities which are harshly affected by the realities of poverty.

Premier, MECs, government officials as well as local government representatives will engage on acts of kindness at the ECD centres and identified schools in Wepener, Van Stadensrus and Dewetsdorp to donate food, blankets, educational material and other essentials to make a difference in the areas.

In addition, the provincial departments and various parastatals will provide integrated mobile services to the community of Wepener. These include Home Affairs, SASSA, the Independent Electoral Commission, etc.

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