Radio for a Purpose, led by Nomveliso Mthini, is nominated for Community Media of the Year, while Alex FM’s Tshepo Mathari, known as Lord_Aluta, is up for Community Journalist of the Year.

Mthini said the nomination validates years of quiet service. “This nomination means everything. For a long time we have been working behind the scenes, serving with love, giving ordinary people a platform to be seen and heard. To be nominated for Community Media of the Year tells us that this work is seen, it is valued, and it matters.”

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She explained how the platform puts people first. “We fulfill it by making people the story, not just the event. We don’t wait for big names. We go to the creative in the township, the small business owner in Alexandra… We write their feature article, we give them radio interviews, we promote them on our social media, and we walk with them.”

Mathari described his own nomination as both honour and responsibility. “To be nominated for Community Journalist of the Year is both a profound honour and a deeply humbling milestone. This recognition validates every single hour spent behind the microphone, proving that grassroots storytelling holds immense weight and national value.”

He pointed to concrete work on The Beat with Lord_Aluta. “Our work tackles the most pressing issues, from tackling social housing-related matters, our recent Mental Health Awareness feature, our critical focus on the development of the Boy Child, and driving solutions for the youth unemployment crisis.” He also highlighted showcasing more than 30 female DJs and community actions such as a winter soup drive.

Both expressed the unique role of community media. Mthini said, “What sets us apart is closeness and trust. Big media talks about the community. Community media talks with the community.” Mathari added that community radio is “the absolute frontline of truth-telling,” capturing nuance and triumph rather than only struggle.

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Looking forward, Mthini hopes the recognition will expand reach. “I hope this nomination opens doors. We want to reach more communities, grow from Alexandra to the whole of Gauteng, and then to the whole of South Africa.” Mathari believes a win would send a clear message, “World-class, high-impact and life-changing journalism is alive, thriving, and driving the nation forward right from the heart of our township studio at Alex FM.”

Voting closes on November 20. To support Radio for a Purpose, SMS SAHA 074 to 47439. To vote for Tshepo Mathari, SMS SAHA 062 to 47439. Each SMS costs R3.

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