Independent Media photojournalist Ayanda Ndamane was once again recognised for telling stories through the lens of his camera, taking home a 2024 Vodacom Journalist Of the Year (VJOY) regional award on Tuesday.
Ndamane was honoured with the photography award for his body of work “Pro-Palestine crowd clash with police” submission, published on the Cape Times front page.
The images showed police clashing with pro-Palestinian supporters in November 2023 during a protest against Israeli supporters at the Sea Point Promenade.
Ndamane walked away with the top honour in the “news photographs” category at the Standard Bank Sikuvile Award for the same body of work in July.
Ndamane said he appreciated the recognition and contribution he could make. “I am overwhelmed with emotions, it is bittersweet because when I look at South African media and also other countries, support is needed.
“Journalists, this includes photographers, are faced with a lot of challenges. Some are dying in the line of duty, potential job cuts and mental health issues. However, the passion, dedication and hard work continues and pays off. It feels good to win but I also give credit to the people I work with in communities, colleagues and I am grateful for my family's support.
This is not for me but for the many children I mentor in disadvantaged communities,” he said.
The judges said Ndamane submitted three images that not only captured the intensity of the news events but also demonstrated the photographer's remarkable courage and proximity to the action.
“The work demonstrates the fundamental role press photographers play in pressing a balanced and accurate presentation of events.
“The photographer has successfully fulfilled the core responsibility of photojournalism, telling the story with integrity and objectivity.”
IOL multimedia journalist, Robin-Lee Francke also won two accolades at the Vodacom Journalist Of the Year (VJOY) regional awards.
Francke was awarded for her live reporting/breaking news when covering the Joshlin Smith missing case.
Her second award was for her Lifestyle reporting on the piece titled “Thinking of adopting or becoming a safety or foster parent in South Africa?
Here are all the details you need to know”.
More than 1 200 entries were received from journalists around the country as they shared examples of their best work from the past year.
"As we commemorate 30 years of democracy in South Africa, we are reminded of the importance of media as the fourth estate that is crucial to our democracy. Ethical, independent and critical journalism holds those in power accountable and brings transparency to affairs that matter,” said director for External Affairs at Vodacom South Africa, Takalani Netshitenzhe.
Cape Times