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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.
Visit MDNtv YouTube Channel for our video content
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]]>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.
Visit MDNtv YouTube Channel for our video content
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]]>NORTH WEST MEDIA AWARDS 2025: Founder pays tribute to partners, leaders and industry pillars in official thank you message
Founder’s Official Thank You Article | North West Media Awards 25
A landmark celebration of media excellence
The North West Media Awards (NWMA) has released an official Founder’s Thank You Message following the successful hosting of the 2025 edition — an event widely regarded as one of the most impactful celebrations of journalism, broadcasting, communication and community media in South Africa.
Founder Ananias Ndlovu expressed deep appreciation to partners, dignitaries, media institutions, nominees, winners and supporting organisations who contributed to making NWMA25 a resounding success.
In his statement, Ndlovu said the 2025 ceremony once again affirmed the resilience, necessity and growing influence of community and small commercial media.
North-West University and Louis Jacobs receive special appreciation
The Founder extended profound gratitude to the North-West University (NWU) for its generous> partnership and unwavering support.
Ndlovu highlighted NWU’s role in strengthening the awards and acknowledged the university’s thoughtful gesture of presenting gifts to special guests.
He also thanked Mr Louis Jacobs, who delivered an inspiring keynote speech that, in his words, elevated the tone and impact of the evening.
“We truly value this relationship and look forward to it growing even bigger and stronger,” Ndlovu said.
Support from the Office of the Premier and Platinum North West TV
Ndlovu recognised the Office of the Premier for its consistent support, which continues to give the awards critical visibility and legitimacy.
He also extended a special vote of thanks to Platinum North West TV — including its Board, Management and Production Crew — for ensuring the event was broadcast live and for delivering coverage with excellence and professionalism.
Government leadership and key speakers commended
In a heartfelt tribute, Ndlovu thanked Deputy Minister Kenny Morolong for attending NWMA25 despite a demanding schedule that included delivering a keynote address earlier that day at the SADC 2025 Media Awards in Pretoria.
He also acknowledged the presence and support of the Rustenburg Local Municipality, particularly the Executive Mayor, Cllr Sheila Mabale-Huma, for her welcome address and commitment to the event.
Hosts who lit up the night
The Founder warmly praised the event hosts, Lee Jay and Hector Motivator, for their energy, charisma and chemistry on stage.
He said their collaboration “was simply out of this world”, noting that they kept the audience engaged, entertained and inspired throughout the evening with professionalism and heart.
Tributes to nominees, winners and guests
Ndlovu extended gratitude to nominees, media houses, journalists and presenters for continually supporting the awards and contributing high-quality work to the media sector.
“Your presence and belief in this platform keep the North West Media Awards alive and growing,” he said.
He also thanked guests for attending in large numbers and commended their elegance, enthusiasm and support for this important initiative.
Industry partners, AIP and media practitioners recognised
The Association of Independent Publishers (AIP) received special acknowledgment for walking the journey alongside NWMA, with a specific thank you extended to Dr Kate Skinner and the broader AIP team.
Community and small commercial media practitioners — described by Ndlovu as the “greatest pillar” of the awards — were celebrated for their unwavering support and attendance.
He emphasised that the awards exist because of them, and ultimately belong to them.
A moving tribute to the late DJ Motso
A particularly emotional moment in the Founder’s message was a tribute to the late DJ Motso.
Ndlovu thanked Aganang FM for assisting in honouring his legacy and expressed gratitude to the Motso family — mother Mmakgosi and brother Tokelo — for their cooperation, support and understanding.
He expressed the hope that DJ Motso’s soul will continue to rest in eternal peace.
Honouring lifetime achievers and media veterans
The two Lifetime Achievement Award recipients, Dr Easy Matjila and Mr Snyman Rankane, received heartfelt recognition for their decades-long contribution to the media sector.
Ndlovu said the respect and appreciation with which they received the honour deeply moved the awards family, and he reaffirmed that their contribution to media in the North West would never go unnoticed.
He added a promise that media veterans whose names are already on the list can expect future recognition as the awards continue to honour industry giants.
Judges, auditors and key contributors thanked
The Founder acknowledged the judging panel for navigating challenging circumstances during the adjudication process.
He welcomed their recommendations for improving the 2026 entry process and confirmed that these suggestions have been received and supported.
Ndlovu also thanked Change Rizosiz auditors, led by Mr Ralph Makhanya, for their professionalism and integrity, and expressed special appreciation to Dr Koketso Rakhudu for her exceptional contribution and time.
Paying tribute to the event support team
The message further recognised a wide range of event support stakeholders. Ndlovu thanked spokesperson Ms Berlina Lekgethwane for her tireless work, interviews and behind-the-scenes efforts; Ms Brenda Ramokopela for looking after special guests; and Rustenburg Fashion Week and Mr Gili Ramalekana for ensuring the models looked stunning on the day.
He extended appreciation to Genplay Foundation and Mafika Productions for sponsored production services, including sound, décor and screens, which he described as classy and world-class.
Additional thanks went to Michelle by KayN for ongoing support, Raps Photos and Projects for capturing key moments, and Theron Rapoo for his consistent behind-the-scenes contribution.
Ndlovu also recognised MMC Selebaleng Pule for providing branded water, Board Members for their leadership and guidance, the Office Team — Nyakallo Mosala, Philadelphia Tsomele and Khumo Monde — for their dedication, and the Catering Team led by Mrs Ndlovu for outstanding service.
Finally, he thanked Golden Cat Holdings and Mr David Ntuane for providing VIP protection and ensuring the safety of all guests.
A final message of unity and vision
Concluding his message, Ndlovu offered a broad note of gratitude to all stakeholders, presenters, partners and guests who made time to be part of the celebration.
He reiterated that these awards are meant for development and called on all role-players to continue working together to grow, protect and elevate them.
“The future of community media is in our hands,” he said, closing with a heartfelt Setswana expression, “Modimo ga se tlaela.”
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