Team ECR scoops two MTN Radio Awards!
The glitzy MTN Radio Awards ceremony, attended by South Africa’s radio elite, took place at the Sandton Convention Centre last night.
Lance Rothschild, CEO of the MTN Radio Awards, says they received a record number of entries this year from radio stations across South Africa, adding, “The finalists are definitely the cream of the crop from this year’s entries, and I believe that this year’s finalists have set a high standard for the industry as a whole.”
Afternoon drive presenter, Damon Beard, hosts The Big Favour every week, where deserving individuals and organisations receive assistance. The Big Favour trumped other national nominees to be named Best Community Project. Damon started The Big Favour 12 years ago and literally every week since then, has managed to help people across KZN, thanks to the kindness and generosity of sponsors. “I do The Big Favour because I have the opportunity to make a difference in people's lives through incredible sponsors,” says Damon. “I have come to realise that no matter how big or how small the request is, every single need is as important as the next.” Damon and his show producer, Rory Petzer, were overjoyed when presented with the award, with an overwhelmed Damon adding, “I'm absolutely over the moon! To receive this recognition is an amazing feeling!”
It was also a night to remember for East Coast Radio journalist, Khatija Nxedlana, who was recognised as a young achiever. The 25-year-old was honoured with membership of the exclusive MTN Radio Awards Bright Stars Club. “It’s both humbling and encouraging and I hope to never let down those who believe in me,” says Nxedlana, who thrives on going out into the field. “My job allows me to have a different office every day and work with different colleagues every day. It’s a very rewarding job in that you feel like you’ve given someone a voice.”
Happiness reigns! #MTNRadioAwards2015 #BrightStarsClub #EastCoastRadio pic.twitter.com/fiiuhMdJpl
— Khatija Nxedlana (@its_KhaTija) April 18, 2015
East Coast Radio’s Programming Manager, Zane Derbyshire, congratulated the ECR team saying, “Our winners and each of our nominees have excelled in their roles at the station and to be shortlisted with some of the top talent in South Africa really makes me very proud.”
Last year, East Coast Radio brought home two MTN Radio Awards. The Drive with Damon team won an MTN Radio Award for Best Promotions/Stunt, while the station's imaging producer, Salendran Thulukanam, was honoured as an MTN Radio Awards Bright Star.
East Coast Radio’s sister station, Jacaranda FM, was named Station Of The Year at last night’s MTN Radio Awards ceremony.