South African Media Celebrates Excellence at Standard Bank Sikuvile Awards

The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) and Standard Bank held a successful and prestigious awards ceremony on Saturday night to honour the best of SA journalism.

This year’s Standard Bank Sikuvile Journalism Awards (SBSJA) edition, held at The Venue in Melrose Arch, Johannesburg, was a testament to the dedication, passion, and courage of journalists who relentlessly strive to tell South Africa’s stories.

Lucas Ledwaba was crowned Journalist of the Year, earning high praise from the judges for his “intensely poignant writing” and “commendable journalism.” His work has highlighted critical issues facing South Africa, challenging authorities to act on behalf of marginalised communities.

The Juby Mayet Rising Star of the Year award was presented to Julia Evans of the Daily Maverick. Her exceptional piece, based on research from the University of Stellenbosch, explored the feasibility of electric vehicles in the minibus taxi industry, showcasing her potential as a future leader in journalism.

The late James Clarke was posthumously honoured with the Allan Soga/Standard Bank Chairman’s Lifetime Achievement Award for his impeccable ethics and excellence in the journalism craft. Clarke’s legacy as an activist journalist who rallied public support against the National Party Government’s plans to mine the Kruger Park remains a beacon of inspiration. His humour and wit also endeared him to readers through his columns and books.

Please read the complete statement here: SANEF ARTICLE