In a small message dedicated to his followers, Shimza whose real name is Ash Raphala wrote: “Thank you for supporting everything we do, especially OMS SA because it contributes greatly to a bigger cause.”

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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.

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 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.

A defining year in digital influence

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 of 2025

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.

News maker of the year

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.

South African of the year

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.

Ethics and responsibility

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.

Looking ahead to 2026

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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15 October 2025 – Bojanala, North West, South Africa: MDNtv today announced that it has officially become a non-profit partner of GlobalGiving, following the successful completion of GlobalGiving’s Pathway Programme and a comprehensive vetting process.

GlobalGiving is the world’s first and largest global fundraising community connecting non-profits, donors, and companies. By providing access to funding, tools, training, and tailored support, GlobalGiving helps community-based organisations like MDNtv to grow their impact and strengthen the communities they serve.

Each year, thousands of organisations across the globe apply to join GlobalGiving’s trusted network by completing the Pathway Programme, a collaborative learning journey designed by existing partners to help non-profits build strong fundraising foundations and global credibility.

 “We are excited to see how our partnership with MDNtv evolves, and we are honoured to support their journey in using media as a force for good,” said Victoria Vrana, CEO of GlobalGiving.

This partnership will enable MDNtv to expand its reach and sustainability, strengthen its social impact reporting, and continue producing community-based stories that inspire action, transparency, and transformation across South Africa.

Learn more about MDNtv’s work at www.mdntvlive.com or visit the GlobalGiving page at www.globalgiving.org.

About MDNtv

MDNtv is an independent, people-driven media platform headquartered in Bojanala, North West, South Africa. The organisation produces credible, solution-focused journalism that amplifies real community voices and promotes social development through storytelling. MDNtv operates with a mission to empower citizens, strengthen democracy, and build informed, united communities across South Africa and beyond.

About GlobalGiving

GlobalGiving is a top-rated non-profit organisation that makes it simple and safe to donate to local projects around the world, while providing fellow non-profits with the tools, training, and support they need to thrive. Since 2002, the GlobalGiving community has raised more than $826 million from over 1.7 million donors for 34,000 projects across 175 countries. To learn more, visit www.globalgiving.org.

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Website: www.mdntvlive.com

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