The spotlight shone brightly on Tabloid Newspapers at the Mzansi Community Media and Creatives Awards held at Durban’s Balmoral Hotel on Saturday, 31 May, as two of its own walked away with top honours.
Bongekile Gumede, a seasoned journalist, was named Best Reporter, while Vimla Govender, known for her unwavering dedication in the advertising department, scooped the award for Best Sales Representative. The prestigious recognition underscores the Tabloid Media Group’s ongoing commitment to excellence and community-driven journalism.
The awards, hosted by Mangethe Media in partnership with Telkom SA, Coca-Cola, GCIS, MDDA, SANEF, TS Foundation, Lee Wines, and Mthobisi and Siya Photographers, celebrated the invaluable contributions of community media professionals. Attendees arrived dressed to impress in glamorous “Touch of Gold” attire, embodying the night’s celebratory spirit.
In her keynote message, awards founder Zinhle Cebekhulu applauded the dedication of all nominees and winners, noting that their work continues to uplift and inform communities across the country. “To our winners, congratulations. Your dedication and impact have been recognised. Being nominated is already a powerful statement that your work matters. Don’t stop pushing forward,” she said.
Bongekile Gumede, who has spent over a decade reporting on social justice, human interest, and development stories said the award serves as both validation and motivation. “It’s an honour to be recognised among peers who work so hard behind the scenes. This award belongs to every community member who has trusted me to tell their story.”
Vimla Govender, who has been a cornerstone of the Tabloid Newspapers advertising division, echoed the sentiment. “I dedicate this to my colleagues and clients who make the work worthwhile. We are a team—and it’s through teamwork that we achieve success.”
The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF), represented at the event by veteran journalist Marlan Padayachee, used the moment to highlight the critical need for greater support of community media workers. He called for improved remuneration, training, and recognition for grassroots journalists and media staff, noting their role in defending democracy.
Padayachee also paid tribute to late editor Andrew Trench and expressed concern over recent threats to media freedom, including the kidnapping of a radio journalist and job losses at the Mail & Guardian.
“These awards are powerful motivators for young and mid-career journalists,” he said. “They remind us that truth-telling still matters, and that it often starts with those working at community level.”
He praised Cebekhulu for founding the awards and proposed stronger ties between the Mzansi Awards and national bodies such as SANEF’s Suvukile Journalism Awards and Nat Nakasa Awards, to amplify recognition for unsung heroes in the media.
In an appeal to media owners, he added: “Provide your journalists with the tools and support they need. A strong community media sector is the backbone of a healthy democracy.”
As the applause rang out and golden trophies were handed over, it was clear that the night belonged to the storytellers—like Bongekile Gumede —who work tirelessly to inform, empower, and uplift.
