The Courage To Speak: Reimagining Accountability & Integrity in South Africa
This year’s edition of the Awards distinguished itself as a meticulously curated celebration of courage, integrity, and public-spirited leadership. The proceedings were powerfully anchored by a keynote address from former Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, whose reflections on accountability, constitutionalism, and the indispensable role of whistleblowers brought both moral clarity and institutional gravity to the occasion.
His address underscored the urgent need to fortify protections for those who expose wrongdoing and to build a justice system that responds decisively to corruption. Bringing together whistleblowers, investigators, civil-society advocates, business leaders, and senior government officials, the Awards not only honoured extraordinary individuals but also reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to transparency, ethical governance, and the protection of those who advance the public good at great personal cost.
Thabiso Zulu
For his extraordinary courage in exposing corruption involving senior members of South Africa’s ruling party, Thabiso Zulu has become a symbol of moral conviction in the face of grave danger.
His fearless advocacy against the looting of municipal resources, police brutality, and the persecution of whistleblowers has come at immense personal cost — marked by death threats, attacks, and an attempted assassination.
Yet, despite abandonment by institutions meant to protect him, Zulu continues to embody the conscience of a nation that still yearns for accountability and justice.
Mihlali Nobavu
For her courageous stand against injustice and her unwavering commitment to fair labour practices.
By exposing alleged exploitative labour practices at the Babel restaurant in Menlyn, Pretoria, Mihlali brought national attention to the mistreatment of vulnerable workers and compelled accountability where silence had long prevailed.
Her principled actions exemplify the power of individual courage to confront wrongdoing and protect human dignity.
Kabelo Malao
For his principled commitment to transparency and accountability, Kabelo Malao has exemplified integrity in action. Though a lawyer with professional interests in whistleblowing, Malao has gone far beyond personal or financial motives — demonstrating rare moral conviction in exposing institutional dysfunction and systemic governance failures. His steadfast pursuit of truth, in the face of professional and personal risk, underscores the indispensable role of ethical courage in defending the public interest.
Individual Whistleblower Excellence Award
Investigative Journalism Award - Media House
NEWS24
For its relentless pursuit of truth and courage in exposing corruption, violence, and state failure, the News24 Investigations Team has upheld the highest ideals of public-interest journalism.
Through the fearless reporting of Kyle Cowan on the assassinations of Cloete and Thomas Murray and of Bouwer van Niekerk; Jeff Wicks’ revealing chronicle of Vusimusi “Cat” Matlala’s nine lives; Sikonathi Mantshantsha’s exposé of the killings of auditors probing R4 billion in irregular contracts in Ekurhuleni; Khaya Koko’s investigation into systemic corruption at City Power; and Sipho Masondo’s uncovering of entrenched graft at PRASA, the team has illuminated the deep intersections between power, greed, and impunity.
Their collective work not only informs but defends democracy — by holding the powerful to account and giving voice to the silenced.
Pieter-Louis Myburgh
For his uncompromising pursuit of truth and accountability, Pieter-Louis Myburgh has once again demonstrated the power of investigative journalism to expose corruption at the highest levels.
His reporting on the Independent Development Trust (IDT) CEO Tebogo Malaka’s bribery scandal has shed light on abuse of public office and the erosion of institutional integrity.
Through meticulous investigation and fearless storytelling, Myburgh continues to affirm journalism’s indispensable role as a guardian of democracy and the public interest.
Investigative Journalism Award - Individual
Davieson Magagula
For his steadfast integrity and principled stand in exposing wrongdoing, Davieson Magagula has demonstrated exceptional courage in the public interest.
Through his commitment to truth, ethical conduct, and accountability — often in the face of personal and professional pressure — he has exemplified the highest ideals of responsible citizenship.
His actions serve as a reminder that democracy relies on individuals who refuse to look away when confronted with misconduct.
Mpho Mofikoe
For her extraordinary courage and moral conviction in exposing systemic corruption within the South African music industry, Mpho Mofikoe has stood firm where others have faltered.
As COO of SAMRO, she uncovered the theft of millions in royalties meant for composers and publishers—challenging entrenched interests within her own organisation. Despite harassment, defamation, and suspension, she refused to be silenced.
Her bravery in bringing truth to light before members and executives alike embodies the highest ideals of integrity and public courage.
Heroes of Integrity Award
Sherpa Whistleblower Support Award
IRS Forensic Investigations
For its steadfast commitment to justice and its unwavering support for South Africa’s whistleblowers, IRS Forensic Investigations has exemplified courage in action. By maintaining investigative watching briefs in cases where whistleblowers faced harassment, intimidation, and even assassination — most notably the Marumo Phenya case — IRS has ensured that truth and accountability remain in the public eye. Through persistent engagement with law enforcement, Parliament, and the media, it has given voice to the silenced and dignity to the fallen, embodying the true spirit of a whistleblower’s ally and guardian.
DIGITAL COURAGE AWARD
Citizen Concerned
For harnessing the power of digital platforms to amplify civic accountability and ethical governance, Citizen Concerned has demonstrated exceptional digital courage in confronting corruption and maladministration.
Through its innovative use of technology to crowdsource information, expose wrongdoing, and mobilise public awareness, Citizen Concerned has transformed online engagement into a force for transparency and social justice.
In an era where truth is often obscured by disinformation, it stands as a beacon of integrity — proving that digital activism, grounded in facts and ethical conviction, can restore public trust and empower citizens to act.
Politically Aweh
For its bold and incisive use of digital satire to expose hypocrisy, corruption, and abuse of power, Politically Aweh has redefined civic engagement in the digital age.
With wit, creativity, and fearless social commentary, it has transformed humour into a tool of resistance—educating, provoking dialogue, and inspiring citizens to think critically about governance and accountability.
In an environment often hostile to dissent, Politically Aweh has exemplified digital courage by speaking truth to power with integrity and audacity, proving that activism can enlighten as much as it entertains.
Whistleblower Champion Award
FEDSAS (Federation of Governing Bodies of South African Schools)
For its resolute advocacy in defence of learners’ constitutional rights and its courageous exposure of systemic failures in the education sector, FEDSAS is recognised with the Whistleblower Champion Award.
By bringing to light the over 29 000 unfilled educator posts, unpaid school funding allocations, and deteriorating learning conditions, FEDSAS has acted as a principled whistleblower on behalf of schools and communities.
Its steadfast commitment to transparency and accountability has compelled action, protected vulnerable learners, and strengthened the integrity of South Africa’s education system.
The Ethics Institute’s (TEI)
For its pioneering leadership in strengthening ethical governance and safe reporting across South Africa, The Ethics Institute (TEI) is recognised with the Whistleblower Champion Award.
Through its rigorous SafeLine Standards, high-impact training programmes, and accessible public resources, TEI has set national benchmarks for integrity, independence, protection, and accountability in organisational whistleblowing systems.
Its unwavering commitment to empowering both institutions and individuals affirms its role as a guardian of ethical practice and a champion of those who speak truth to power.
Our Partners.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our esteemed partners for their unwavering generosity and steadfast support of the Whistleblowers Awards & Summit initiative. Their commitment to our cause is the driving force behind this event's success. Their contributions not only help us honour the brave individuals who have championed ethical values but also advance the vital conversation around accountability and justice.
Together, we are making a meaningful difference in the world, and we are profoundly thankful for their partnership in this noble endeavour. Their support truly embodies the spirit of ethical citizenship and positive change.
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