The RDMAs recognise journalists and media for their efforts to positively influence perceptions and habits related to the irresponsible use of alcohol. The awards are open to South African journalists who produce content that relates to responsible drinking and the impact of alcohol abuse, including issues such as drunk driving, underage drinking, foetal alcohol syndrome, binge drinking, and alcohol-related violence.

Any published material on any media platform that aims to support this cause is eligible to enter the awards and win a prize. The 2017 judging panel was a mix of media professionals consisting of media and reputation strategist, Joanne Botha; author and former editor, Ryland Fisher; TV anchor and celebrity media personality, Leanne Manas; news analyst and columnist, Angelo Fick; and former editor and political analyst, Mpumelelo Mkhabela.

"The number of entries into this year’s Awards has been outstanding," says Botha, who has sat on the RDMA judging panel for the past three years. "The fact that so many media are writing about responsible drinking issues is a testament to how passionate they are about the topic and how relevant these stories are to our society."

The finalists, along with their categories, for the 2017 RDMAs have been selected as the following:

  • Best Newspaper – Nicole Arends (Varsity Newspaper), Le Roux Schoeman (Die Burger), and Zoe Mohapo (The Sowetan);
  • Best Online – Sharlene Rood (News 24), Daphne Grundling (Netwerk 24), and Le Roux Schoeman (Netwerk 24);
  • Best Magazine – Ernusta Maralack (Kuier) and Kieran Legg (Men’s Health);
  • Best Broadcast – Mohau Mamafha & Eusebius McKaiser (Talk Radio 702), Cleopatra Jones (SABC 3’s Special Assignment), Nomfundo Mzolo (Gagasi FM), and Veronique Smal (MFM); 
  • Best Community Media – Nomfundo Mzolo (Gagasi FM), Veronique Smal (MFM), and Simphiwe Dlamini (Ugu Youth Radio); and
  • Best Up & Coming – Veronique Smal (MFM), Nomfundo Mzolo (Gagasi FM), and Cleopatra Jones (SABC 3’s Special Assignment).

The winner of each category will walk away with R15 000 and a public acknowledgement for their efforts to help combat alcohol abuse in South Africa. There will also be an award for Journalist of the Year for the overall best entry, as well as for Media House of the Year for the media house with the most unique entries.

Winners will be announced at an official awards ceremony on Thursday, 31 August.

For more information, visit www.diageordma.co.za. Alternatively, connect with them on Facebook or on Twitter.