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

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The Awards continue a proud tradition of recognising outstanding media contributors. Last year, the Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented to veteran radio broadcaster Minah Pilane Huma and veteran journalist Dulile Sowage by Deputy Minister in the Presidency Hon. Kenny Morolong and the Executive Mayor of Rustenburg Cllr Shiela Mabale-Huma. This year’s ceremony will build on that legacy of celebrating excellence and preserving media heritage.

Honouring Dr Masego Ezekiel Matjila

Dr Masego Ezekiel Matjila, a distinguished SABC newsreader, has dedicated over 30 years to multilingual broadcasting and the promotion of indigenous languages. Beginning his career at Radio Setswana (later Motsweding FM), he also managed archives across several language radio services.

His remarkable skills led him to Setswana sports commentary and later prime-time news presenting in Setswana, Sesotho and Sepedi. He also served as a bulletin editor and executive producer until his retirement in 2021.

Matjila has received numerous accolades, including Best News Writer (2008) and AFCON Commentator of the Year (1996). He was recently awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the North-West University for his contributions to indigenous language development in broadcasting.

Honouring Veteran Broadcaster Snyman Rankane

Snyman Rankane, a beloved veteran broadcaster, is best known for his influential career at Motsweding FM where he hosted popular shows such as Gaabo Motho and Leretlhabetse. His commanding voice and deep connection with listeners made him a household name within the Setswana-speaking community.

Rankane continues to serve the industry as a presenter at Madibeng FM and plays a significant role in mentoring young radio broadcasters, nurturing the next generation of talent. His community involvement includes initiatives that provided winter uniforms to vulnerable families.

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