KZN’s top journos vying for top award

The inaugural KwaZulu-Natal Entertainment Awards, set for Tuesday night at the Durban International Convention Centre, are eagerly awaited.

That’s not because it’s the first time they are being staged but because of the creme da lecreme of nominees who will be vying for the coveted prizes.

The awards which are aimed at honouring men and women who have contributed in putting the KZN province on the map, will also recognise journalists who are the fore front of reporting about the events.

These reporters help in profiling up and coming artists who go on to become household names in the industry.

Six reporters will be gunning for the Journalist of the Year category. They have been hard at work canvassing for votes from the public. They have showered each other with praise and wished each other all the best

Charles Khuzwayo from Isolezwe had this to say about being nominated: “This nomination means a lot to me because I didn’t know there are people out there who appreciate my job. In any competition, there’s a winner and a loser. Thus I won’t be bitter, I would congratulate anyone who scoops it. I respect other nominees for their brilliant work. However I am working around the clock, campaigning and canvassing for the votes. I am optimistic that I will emerge as the winner. If I lose, I won’t blame it on anyone. I will swallow the bitter pill. I will continue with my job. Awards are just a cherry on top and a morale booster but am not working for them. I won’t retire from entering awards,” said Charles.

Jabulani Langa from Daily Sun said: “Being nominated alone means a lot to me, and I see myself as a winner. It shows there are those who recognise my hard work. Interestingly, some colleagues I am up against are my role models who helped to shape my career when I came into the scene. I may be young age wise, but in terms of work, we are on par. While I’m hopeful I’ll win but I have reserved a room for disappointment but I’m leaving everything up to the voters.” Jabulani said.

Ntombizodwa Makhoba from City Press said: “I didn’t see the nomination coming because I’m from Gauteng. But being part of the awards shows that people appreciate my craft. I’ve been in the industry for 10 years and I think I have earned my dues and I deserve the award”.

Ilanga’s Sandile Makhoba said “For a rural boy like me from eShowe to be mentioned in the same breath as the esteemed colleagues vying for the award, humbles me. It is heartening to see celebrities posting and voting for me. It just shows they understand our job is important as it elevates their craft to another level. Even when we write negative stuff about them they understand it’s all in the job. I hope Team Makhoba will continue to root for me so that my dream comes true. My ultimate dream is to see people in the entertainment industry being rewarded for their effort. People need to take their craft seriously and make meaningful contribution in life.”