The much-anticipated second annual GBV Awards took place on Saturday, 09 March 2024, at Theatre of Marcellus – Emperor’s Palace.
Tshegofatsa Rona welfare and community organisation established this movement aimed at recognizing and celebrating individuals and organisations that are doing exceptional work in curbing the spread of Gender Based Violence (GBV)
Tshegofatsa Rona Welfare and Community organisation is an NPO that provides shelter – be it temporal or on an emergency basis for victims of GBV.
Humanitarians on the ground, doing the Lord’s work were honoured in various categories and were encouraged to never stop serving their communities in their respective niches.
The cream of the crop in the world of activism came out to play, they understood the assignment. They all ate and left no crumbs on that red carpet. Elegant black tie was the dress code to abide by – it’s safe to say that they evidently all got the memo, putting their best fashion foot forward to celebrate a momentous milestone in the South African Activism fraternity – the 2nd annual GBV Awards.
The glittering awards were by hosted media personality Bujy Bikwa, actress Thina Mnumzana and all-round superstar, Puleng Sekabate. The triumphant trio did a stellar job and had the entire crowd at the magnificent Theatre of Marcellus eating from the palm of their hands.
The guest presenters were an array of some of the biggest names in the community building space and activism. In addition to an array of nominees the red carpet was buzzing – the ladies looked drop dead gorgeous in their black evening dresses while the gentlemen certainly didn’t want to be left behind, they all looked so dapper in their tuxedos.
The Best Male GBV activist went to Mordecai Ndlovu while Jabulile Kubeka clinched the Best Female GBV Activist gong. Mfanelo UPhenyibheshu Dzanibe emerged victorious in Best Journalist category.
Community Builder of the year award went to none other than Amazon Namane, Sergeant Mpho Sidiga bagged the Best GBV Police Officer Accolade.
Best GBV Organization went to Ungazibulali campaign, Themba Ndlovu was awarded with the Best Pastor supporting fight against GBV award.
The coveted Best GBV Ambassador was awarded to Chris Maseko.
GBV Awards recipients on stage with awards founder Cynthia Dinalane
The entertainment at the second annual GBV Awards did not disappoint.
“I want to take this time to thank Mama Cynthia Dinalane, May God bless you.” said Gospel sensation Puleng March as she took to the stage.
The Gospel giant then took us to church with a fire performance. What a worshiper! What a star! And that, voice…? So soothing and pleasant to the ear. Former Idols SA contestant Lungisa Xhamela’s electrifying performance had the entire auditorium on their feet. His rendition of Vusi Nova’s Ndikuthandile was a thrill for the audience, everyone was singing along. The South African Music Award (SAMA) award-winner upped the ante and serenaded a very lucky lady in the crowd with Ringo Madlingozi’s Hit Song – Sondela. Performance of the night what…? Lungisa Xhamela took that title and ran with it.
Another breathtaking performance to write home about was that of Joyous Celebration’s very own Andile Thabethe.
Recognition Awards were also handed to individuals, and organisations that have played a pivotal role in the success of Tshegofatsa Rona welfare and community organisation’s mandate.
Our very own – Editor in Chief Amanda Matshaka was one of the people that received this honour.
Other recipients were Dr Matshaba, David, Department of Arts and Culture, Sculf and Scolt, Protea hotel (OR Tambo) SWACO, Puleng March, Standard Bank Kempton Park branch, Woolworths Norkem Park, Gauteng MMC Refilwe Ntsekhe, Lorraine Phiri, Act Now Organization, Plus 94 Research, Mapule Patshwe, Masinga Embroidary, Humanity foundation, ladies on the move, Nobuhle Langa, Boitumelo Maile, SAGMR.
Police Officers who are tirelessly and selflessly fighting the scourge of gender based violence in Ekurhuleni – Amia Kwelete, Phuti Ragopa and Thabiso Tabane also clinched their well-deserved recognition awards.
Brigadia Ndlovu, Colonel Nelly Mautlane, Solly Nkgalabu, Unathi Masayi and Dan Kubayi all received recognition accolades.
The Awards ceremony concluded on a rather sentimental note – with Tshegofatsa Rona welfare and community organisation children awarding their shero, Cynthia Dinalane with an honorary award for the outstanding, selfless efforts she continues to excel in, making sure that the organisation runs smoothly and serves its purpose.
SA POSITIVE NEWS applauds Cynthia Dinalane and the entire Tshegofatsa Rona welfare and community organisation on a job well done.
The countdown to the 3rd annual GBV Awards has begun, the nomination process officially commences in May this year.
By Sinenzolo Mondi – Nduku
