OUT of 541 entries, it all came down to one unforgettable night of glitz and celebration at the AVBOB FCJ Excellence Awards at the Protea Hotel Stellenbosch and Conference Centre, Techno Park, on Friday, August 22.

Hosted by the Forum of Community Journalists (FCJ) NPC, the event brought together editors, reporters, and media professionals from across the country to honour excellence in community journalism. This year also marked the introduction of a mobile phone photography category, which was won by Kristy Kolberg of the George Herald.

Among the nominees were Candyce Pillay of Northglen News (Digital Writing), Roelien D’Amico, editor of Southlands Sun (Headlines), and Xolani Dlamini of Eyethu Intshonalanga, who was awarded a Certificate of Merit for Vernacular reporting. “I feel very privileged to have had the opportunity to compete at national level. It was a great experience — especially seeing people and organisations eager to honour journalists for their integrity, courage, and impactful storytelling,” said Dlamini.

He added: “This certificate of merit is a motivational reminder of past efforts and a stepping stone toward future success. I’m grateful and excited that my work has been recognised nationally.”

His sentiments were echoed by D’Amico, a seasoned finalist and 2019 Best Front Page winner, who emphasised the sense of camaraderie and pride at the event. “It’s always great to rub shoulders with like-minded people who share the same ideals, challenges, and passion. Although not everyone walked away with a trophy, we are all winners. Journalism is hard work, and being in a room full of people who truly understand that is both inspiring and motivating.”

This year’s entries highlighted the breadth of talent across categories such as hard news, human interest stories, front and back pages, and free newspaper of the year. Reflecting on the experience, Pillay said, “Being part of the AVBOB FCJ Excellence Awards reminded me of the value of community journalism and the important role it plays in giving people a voice. Just being named a finalist out of 541 entrants was a big deal — and making the top 10 was the cherry on top.”

She added that the event was not just about accolades, but a rare opportunity to pause and reflect: “We often work under tight deadlines with limited resources and little recognition, yet the stories we tell make a real difference. From crime to courts, features to sport and lifestyle — we cover it all, across platforms. These awards celebrate our dedication and encourage us to keep raising the bar.”

AVBOB’s Executive Director of Business Development and Financial Services, Nakedi Pilane, reflected on the importance of supporting community journalism. “As a business, we believe in the value and role that community journalism plays in society. This marks the fourth AVBOB FCJ Excellence Awards where we celebrate outstanding work. To us, investing in journalism is investing in collective memory, accountability, and the dignity of our people.”

D’Amico, who also edits the South Coast Sun, underscored the vital role these awards play. “They highlight the sacrifices, passion, and determination of journalists who work with minimal resources but deliver meaningful stories that impact people’s lives. These awards validate the significance of grassroots journalism in strengthening democracy and keeping communities informed.”

She added, “It reminded me of how important it is to shine a light on the positive aspects of our communities and serve our readers with integrity. I’m already aiming for a return to the winners’ circle next year.”

Top honours:

Journalist of the Year: George Herald team – Lizette da Silva, Kristy Kolberg, Alida de Beer, and Michelle Pienaar

Photographer of the Year: Highvelder’s Wayne van der Walt (third consecutive win)

Alet Roux Trophy for Most Promising Journalist: Lebohang Pita (Benoni City Times)

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