MIDDELBURG – The Forum of Community Journalists (FCJ) hosted its 2025 No Guts No Glory regional seminar on September 11 and 12, drawing more than 90 journalists, editors and media professionals from Gauteng, Limpopo and Mpumalanga.

Held at the scenic Olifants River Lodge, the two-day gathering offered members a rich programme of discussions and keynote talks on ethical reporting, industry challenges and media freedom.

Thanks to the sponsors, Avbob, Caxton and Novus, and speaker gifts sponsored by Columbus Stainless, the seminar was free, ensuring that as many community journalists as possible could attend.

Speakers covered a wide range of topics:

• Wessel Oosthuizen, a veteran journalist, opened the event with a reflective look at six decades in the industry.

• Phathiswa Magopeni, the executive director of the Press Council of South Africa, underscored the importance of community media and its partnership with the Press Council.

• Latiefa Mobara, a former Press Council executive director, bid farewell to the sector while urging members to keep ethics front and centre in times of change.

• Advocate Gerrie Nel explored the erosion of trust in the criminal justice system and the vital role of media in restoring accountability.

• Johan Orton, a sports photographer, shared practical tips for capturing memorable sports photos.

• Mike Masina, a former mayor of the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality, discussed how community journalism can help voters make informed decisions ahead of the 2026 local government elections.

“Community journalists are the frontline defenders of democracy,” said Marietta Lombard, the FCJ Gauteng deputy executive director.

“Through initiatives such as No Guts No Glory, we equip our members to keep telling stories that matter, even amid mounting pressures.”

The seminar reaffirmed the FCJ’s commitment to giving reporters the tools, confidence and support they need to uphold press freedom while serving their communities with integrity.