Journalism alumni finalists for prestigious award

A talented journalism student is proving to be a rising star in the industry, claiming a spot among the finalists of the prestigious Standard Bank Sikuvile Journalism Awards.

Advanced Diploma student Samane Junior Marks, and award-winning Daily Maverick journalist and CPUT alumna, Suné Payne, are finalists in the category Community Service Reporting.

They earned this recognition for their story: Divided and riven with discontent — a deep dive, which was published in the Daily Maverick last year.

Samane said he was humbled and grateful for the opportunities that have shaped his journey thus far. He graduated with his Journalism Diploma in April.

“My pursuit of knowledge and dedication is a testament of God’s grace.”

He acknowledged CPUT for playing a significant role in shaping his career and for the mentorship he received from academics in the Media Department.

“In academia, I was fortunate to have been mentored by two distinguished scholars who significantly shaped my character and approach to journalism. Dr Sisanda Nkoala, a published Media Studies Professor at the University of the Western Cape, formerly a Media and Design Lecturer, taught valuable practical skills that have been instrumental in my growth as a journalist. Her expertise and guidance have had a lasting impact on my professional growth.

“I also had the privilege of being taught by Dr Trust Matsilele, a renowned scholar and former politics lecturer, now a senior lecturer at Birmingham City University in the UK. He instilled in me an essential skill to navigate the industry, to have character and unwavering commitment to excellence.”

Payne, who hails from Delft, mentored Samane last year, and said it was an honour to be a finalist for such a prestigious award - “especially since it is with Samane, who is a promising journalist”.

She said she had originally wanted to study politics and saw that CPUT’s Journalism programme offered politics during the three-year programme.

“During my time studying, I was lucky enough to visit Parliament (which is down the street from our Roeland Campus building) and get an understanding of the world I was getting into. It was a great experience for me and CPUT’s Journalism Department was such a friendly and welcoming space for a budding journalist.”

She said her colleagues at the Daily Maverick have served as her mentors.

“Growing up, I used to love watching Special Assignment and Fokus - so I count incredible journalists such as Lynette Francis and Hazel Friedman as influences.”

Samane said his debut year in the industry was a hands-on, challenging experience “with an absolute drive for defending the truth”.

“I was working alongside, a talented team of seasoned journalists like Suné Payne, Velani Ludidi, Vincent Cruywagen, Caryn Dolley, and a driven editorial desk of Maverick News Department, led by the remarkable Janet Heard, who is passionate about telling impactful stories with substance. Those are industry influencers who continue to shine a light on my career. They played a significant role in shaping my career trajectory thus far. The entire Daily Maverick team has been helpful in refining my journalistic skills, fostering a keen news sense, and emphasising the importance of ethical reporting practices.“

While pursuing his advanced diploma at CPUT, Samane continues to work with Daily Maverick as a freelance court and crime reporter.

Apart from academics and his work schedule, he is passionate about football.

“I’ve had a remarkable run in the CPUT Res League, finishing third in the previous two seasons.”

The winners of the Standard Bank Sikuvile Awards will be announced on 20 July 2024.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
Email: Frederickskennediji@cput.ac.za