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The Vodacom Journalist of the Year Awards revealed the 2025 regional winners for KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga. The announcement was made after both regions submitted 168 entries, part of a national total exceeding 1 330 submissions. Journalists were recognised across 12 categories for their outstanding work over the past year.
What Happened
The awards received more than 1 330 entries nationwide, surpassing the previous year’s 1 200 submissions. KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga contributed 168 entries, showcasing strong competition and high-quality journalism.
Winners in each category will receive R5 000. Categories with winners included:
- Live Reporting/Breaking News: Sakhiseni Nxumalo (News24)
- Opinion: Nivashni Nair (TimesLIVE)
- Lifestyle: Jayed-Leigh Paulse with Japan Mathebula & Justine Robilliard (SABC)
- Photography: Sandile Ndlovu (TimesLIVE)
- Sport: Carol Albertyn Christie with Macfarlane Moleli, Ryan Logie & Dan Clayton (Carte Blanche)
- Politics: Greg Ardé with Sam Sole (AmaBhungane)
- Sustainability: Tony Carnie (Daily Maverick)
Other categories had no winners.
The Young Journalist nominee for both regions is Prashalan Govender of The Witness.
Official Response
Vodacom KwaZulu-Natal Managing Executive Imran Khan said the awards highlight the importance of credible journalism:
“In an era of AI and digital platforms, credible journalism is crucial. Traditional media holds power accountable and ensures transparency.”
Khan also confirmed that the KwaZulu-Natal region will invest more than R1 billion this financial year in new network sites, fibre rollout and energy projects. He added that R100 million will fund 106 new base stations in deep rural areas to close the digital gap.
Judging convener Ryland Fisher, who has more than 45 years of experience, said:
“The judging panel had vigorous debate about the winners because the quality of entrants was once again very good.”
The judging panel remained the same as last year.
Community Impact
Regional winners from KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga will now compete for the national titles. National winners will be announced on 4 December, each receiving R10 000, while the overall winner will take home R100 000.
The Vodacom Young Journalist of the Year award winner will receive funding of R50 000 to enrol in a course that supports their professional development.
