Masego, an intern at the New Age newspaper since February 2017, was one of three nominees in this category. This follows the successful vetting process where entries were handed over to a panel of independent experts for the judging of the different categories.

The SATMA awards seek to celebrate the diverse cultures in South Africa and in addition to honouring traditional musicians, also give recognition to traditional poets, comedians, journalists, dance groups and radio DJs.

“For as long as I can remember I have had a fascination with people and different cultures; something that has manifested itself in different areas of my work,” says Masego.

 

A child of North West

 

Hailing from Gopane Village in Zeerust, Masego obtained a BA and an honours degree in communication on the campus in Mahikeng. During her student years, she was invited to become a member of the Golden Key International Honour Society that acknowledges academic excellence, leadership development and community service.

 

Masego also worked as an assistant in the campus’ Marketing and Communication Department where she wrote copy for the campus website and was part of the winter school programme for 2015 and 2016.

 

Where it all started

 

Masego cut her teeth as a journalist while writing for The Album student newspaper. She joined the editorial team in 2014 and was the deputy-editor of the newspaper by the time she left.

 

Masego believes joining The Album was the beginning of her journalism career. “My involvement taught me how to convert my mistakes into lessons, pressure into productivity and skills into strengths,” she says.

 

The gala event for the SATMA awards was held on 1 October 2017 in Mahikeng.