Lusikisiki journalist Lumka Bekindawo honoured this week

As the world marks International Journalist Day on 19 November, Lumka Bekindawo is being recognised for her commitment to ethical, local-language reporting.

She grew up in Lusikisiki, where nightly news and radio stories sparked her passion for journalism. Today, she works as a producer and presenter on Iindaba Zethu, Newzroom Afrika’s isiXhosa news platform.

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What Happened

Bekindawo’s work focuses on community impact, accuracy, and empathy. As a result, she delivers stories in isiXhosa — her mother tongue — helping people connect with news in a more personal way.

“Journalism became a natural path for me,” she said. “I grew up with news all around me — from TV to bedtime stories.”

In addition, Bekindawo says Iindaba Zethu stood out for its professionalism and language representation. “When Nguni news launched, I felt seen as a Xhosa woman,” she explained.

Official Response

Her colleagues describe her as driven, grounded, and culturally fluent. Despite tight deadlines, she balances fieldwork with clear communication and care.

“Communication helps when stories pile up,” she said. “And adaptability helps me connect with different communities.”

Meanwhile, Bekindawo believes strong journalism needs two things: credibility and local relevance. “We must stay ethical and speak to our people — even on new platforms,” she added.

Community Impact

For viewers across the Eastern Cape, Bekindawo represents more than just news. Instead, she shows how rural roots and local languages still matter in national media.

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She often learns greetings in other languages while on assignment. This, in turn, helps her build trust and respect during interviews.

“People open up when you speak their language, even just a little,” she shared.

Looking ahead, Bekindawo remains committed to community-centred storytelling — no matter the medium or platform.

Key Facts

• Raised in Lusikisiki, inspired by TV and radio news
• Works at Iindaba Zethu, DStv 163’s isiXhosa platform
• Honoured on 19 November: International Journalist Day
• Known for ethical, community-first journalism
• Reports across languages and cultures with empathy