Community journalism took centre stage at this year’s AVBOB FCJ Excellence Awards, where local titles from Johannesburg North proved their strength among South Africa’s best.

Hosted by the Forum of Community Journalists NPC (FCJ), the awards received 541 entries across categories ranging from hard news and photography to front and back page design. A new category, mobile phone photography, added fresh excitement to the competition.

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At the prize-giving gala dinner in Stellenbosch on August 22, local newspapers proudly claimed several top spots.

The Sandton Chronicle scooped the coveted Newspaper of the Year (Free) award, cementing its position as a trusted source of news for Johannesburg residents. Close on its heels, the Northcliff Melville Times secured second place in the same category, while the Midrand Reporter and Rosebank Killarney Gazette also ranked among the Top 10 in the country.
Ashtyn Mackenzie is editor of Sandton Chronicle, Midrand Reporter, and the Rosebank Killarney Gazette, while Aimee McGill is editor of Northcliff Melville Times, as well as Randburg Sun and Fourways Review.

In design, the Northcliff Melville Times impressed with first place for Best Front Page, while the Rosebank Killarney Gazette took second place. The Sandton Chronicle and Midrand Reporter also earned spots in the Top 10, reflecting the strong creative flair in Joburg North’s newsrooms.

The awards once again highlighted the passion, talent, and impact of community journalists, whose work connects readers with the stories that matter most.

Joburg north readers can take pride in knowing their local papers are not only community champions but also nationally recognised for journalistic excellence.

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