21/08/2026
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# Dizindaba Journalists Shine at the 2025 AVBOB FCJ Excellence Awards
Dizindaba Iphephandaba lesiXhosa is celebrating a remarkable achievement after three of its journalists were recognised in the Vernacular Language Writing category at the 2025 AVBOB FCJ Excellence Awards.
The three journalists — Ntsikelelo Jonga, Monwabisi Khininda and Anele Raziya — were nominated for their outstanding contribution to vernacular journalism through their work for Dizindaba Iphephandaba lesiXhosa.
The evening culminated in a particularly proud moment for the Dizindaba team, with Anele Raziya taking first place, while Monwabisi Khininda secured second place and Ntsikelelo Jonga placed fourth in the Vernacular Language Writing category.
The awards were presented tonight at the Capital Hotel in Pretoria, where Anetta Barnes-Mangxaba, Founder and CEO of Dizindaba Media, accepted the awards on behalf of the journalists.
Speaking after receiving the awards, Barnes-Mangxaba said the recognition was a proud moment not only for the journalists, but for Dizindaba and the communities it serves.
“It is a great honour to receive these awards on behalf of my journalists, Monwabisi Khininda and Anele Raziya. Although they could not be here to accept them personally, I know this recognition means a great deal to them.”
She said the awards were a reflection of the journalists’ commitment to telling stories that matter.
“These awards are a testament to their dedication, courage and commitment to telling stories that matter and giving a voice to the people and communities we serve.”
For Dizindaba, the achievement carries significance beyond the individual awards. As an isiXhosa community newspaper, the publication has built its identity around telling stories from and about communities that are often overlooked, while celebrating the isiXhosa language and ensuring that people can see themselves, their communities and their experiences reflected in the media.
Barnes-Mangxaba said the recognition reinforces the importance of continuing to invest in vernacular journalism and journalists who tell stories in indigenous languages.
“On behalf of Ntsikelelo, Monwabisi and Anele, thank you to the organisers, the judges and everyone who believes in the power of journalism. We are deeply grateful for this recognition.”
She concluded with a message to the three journalists:
“Congratulations, Team Dizindaba — these ones are yours. Thank you.”
The achievement is a proud milestone for Dizindaba Iphephandaba lesiXhosaand a powerful reminder that stories told in indigenous languages deserve a place at the highest levels of journalism.
Congratulations to Ntsikelelo Jonga, Monwabisi Khininda and Anele Raziya — Team Dizindaba, this recognition belongs to you!
