Media Monitoring Africa (MMA) is proud to announce journalist Beth Amato from South Africa as the 2017 winner of the annual Isu Elihle “Great Idea” Awards.

Amato, a journalist from South Africa, walks away with R25 000 for her story published by News24 and which explores the effects of emotional trauma on child offenders.

The adjudicator’s were impressed by the calibre of stories published by the finalists however Amato’s story stood out for its unique topic and research-oriented approach. Adjudicator, Phemelo Motene of Talk Radio 702, said, “To the winner I’d like to say, keep at it. You’ve done really well. But there’s one thing to do well and to not rest on your laurels. This continent needs more journalists who are more critical in thinking, who still go out there to do their best every single time. This is a great story, next time we still want a better story from you. The more of us strive to do better, the more we will be doing ourselves a service in the continent.”

Bashir Amin of Malawi who tackled the exploitation of children in the country at the hands of their parents, took the second spot which earned him R15 000. Collins Hinamundi of Uganda came in at third place with his story which brought into light child labour in Ugandan mines. Hinamundi has been awarded R10 000 for his story.

Director of MMA, William Bird, also congratulated the winners for their efforts. “The finalists for this year’s competition have again given the judges a difficult time with their exceptional stories. We look forward to growing these awards in 2018 and supporting more unique story ideas from journalists across the region.”

For more details please contact:

Ayabulela Poro or William Bird

Tel: 011 788 1278

Email: ayabulelap@mma.org.za or williamb@mma.org.za

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