RDMA finalists ready for big reveal

• Best Newspaper – Nashira Davids & Aarti Narsee (Sunday Times), Mia Malan (Mail & Guardian) and Bekezela Phakathi (Business Day)
• Best Online – Jessica Anne Wood (Moneybags) and Mia Malan (Mail & Guardian)
• Best Magazine – Vida Li Sik (Drum) and Bongani Mdakane (Move!)
• Best Broadcast – Darren Taylor (RSG Radio), Cleopatra Jones (SABC, Special Assignment) and Pippa Hudson (Cape Talk)
• Best Community Media – Desiree Rorke (Tygerburger), Nicole John (Maritzburg Fever) and Takalane Nemangowe (Alex FM)
• Best Campus Media – Ashley Seymour (Varsity Newspaper) and Charita van der Berg (MFM)

The 2016 judging panel was a mix of media experts, consisting of author and journalist Rebecca Davis, media and reputation strategist Joanne Botha, freelance writer and former editor Aurelia Mbokazi, former editor and radio personality Brendah Nyakudya and bulletin editor and news presenter Zodwa Nogilana.

The all-female RDMA judging panel.

“The calibre of this year’s entries has been outstanding,” says Joanne Botha, who has sat on the RDMA judging panel for the past two years. “What specifically stood out for me this year was how multi-dimensional the entries were – they showcased stories from a variety of audiences affected by alcohol abuse, including tavern owners, families, community organisations and government. Many journalists also went further than just reporting on the actual alcohol abuse by providing advice on where to seek help.”

The winner of each category will walk away with R15,000 and a public acknowledgment for their efforts to help combat alcohol abuse in South Africa. There will also be an award for Journalist of the Year for the overall best entry, as well as for Media House of the Year for the media house with the most unique entries. For more information, go to https://diageordma.co.za.