Vodacom announces 2017 Journalist of the Year Awards

Prestigious awards offer grand prize of R100 000

Vodacom announces that entries for the Vodacom Journalist of the Year Awards will open in August. Press freedom and the right of expression are in the spotlight and these awards honour the best in journalism. This year’s theme is ‘Your Word’, and promotes the integrity of journalism across all media. With the rise of ‘fake news’, persistent threats to reporters in many countries and increased commentary on the state of media globally, journalists are being held to the quality of their reporting more rigorously than ever before.

“We are delighted to announce the 2017 Awards, which honour journalists from around the country by recognising their best work from the past year,” said Takalani Netshitenzhe, Chief Officer for Corporate Affairs at the Vodacom Group.

“These awards give us a chance to reflect on the critical work journalists do to disseminate news, often in difficult, threatening and dangerous circumstances. There’s great synergy between how our network keeps people connected and how journalists bring news to readers, listeners and a growing number of online followers.”

“Ultimately, great journalism fosters the kind of dialogue between human beings that speaks truth to power, and from which appropriate actions and innovative solutions are born. Vodacom remains wholly committed to supporting freedom of expression in South Africa through our ongoing sponsorship of the Vodacom Journalist of the Year Awards.” said Netshitenzhe.
 
Awards are made for the best journalist in a range of categories in five regions nationally, with the process culminating in a national award of R100 000 for the Vodacom Journalist of the Year. Journalists can enter their work via the website application form from August (dates to be announced).