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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MDNtv makes history winning Online Media House of the Year in SA:

The awards carried heightened credibility this year. Mr Ofentse Ngake, an experienced Journalism and Media Studies lecturer in the School of Communication at North West University, joined the judging panel and contributed to the evaluation process. His academic expertise and commitment to media development added further integrity and rigour to the awards. Judging took place from 01 November to 30 November, followed by the prestigious ceremony at the Rustenburg Civic Centre.

MDNtv’s achievement reflects its growing reputation for community people driven storytelling and journalism. The platform is recognised for amplifying the voices of ordinary people, highlighting local issues, and producing reporting that supports accountability and public interest awareness. The award acknowledges the hard work of the MDNtv team as well as the trust and support shown by its viewers.

The organisation also expressed gratitude to its donors and partners who continue to support independent reporting and the growth of a people centred media landscape.

The North West Media Awards are organised by Compassion Awards Foundation Investments in partnership with North West University. The event continues to honour excellence in journalism and media across the province and remains an important platform for recognising media organisations that serve communities with credibility and dedication.

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