Mary B Papayya was one of the Courier’s first reporters, working at the newspaper from 1987 to 1990.

She went on to become an award winning journalist and editor, and champion for free-speech. Read on to hear her story in her own words.

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Heartfelt congratulations to The North Coast Courier family.

The newspaper holds a special place in the hearts of the community, but more so for those of us who had the privilege of working there.

It was 38 years ago that I walked into the Courier as a novice journalist, leaving some three years later with beautiful memories and a solid professional foundation that allowed me to excel in my journalism and media career.

This, thanks to an incredible editor Bruce Stephenson. It was not a one-dimensional job but a study into the world of the newspaper industry. While Bruce ran the operation, ably supported every step of the way by his wife Rose, the rest of us felt comfortable enough to know we were part of a special family. For those of us who took in the learnings and rolled up our sleeves, we were set up for an amazing future in the industry.

My stay at the Courier was also forged in a time of deep shifts and changes in the socio-political life of community and country.

It meant a transformation in the narrative and the introduction of stories and content that was once frowned upon. Breaking racial and cultural barriers was a challenge for me as a then young journalist and there were some tears.

Yet none of the battles were fought alone as I had the support of an editor who lived by his word.

I would go on from this solid foundation to become a strong voice for media freedom and journalism in a career spanning nearly four decades.

Rose and Bruce’s contribution to the Dolphin Coast community cannot be measured. Be it from the athletics, to the business community, the schooling community, support for the underprivileged or the great scripts for the local dramedy club – nothing happened without their influence and contribution.

It was always about team work, innovation, strong leadership, ethics and a family atmosphere with their then toddler daughter Lesley growing up in the family business.

Congrats and wishing the Courier all the best for decades to come in the hands of Lesley and Pieter Naudé.

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