Next week, South African-based media watchdog, Media Monitoring Africa (MMA) will host a landmark series of events to commemorate Black Wednesday (19 October) and to applaud those in the sector that are pushing boundaries to maintain and deepen quality ethical journalism. Each of the events will take place in the evening (18h00-20h00) during the week Monday 16 October to Thursday 19 October, and will delve into different media-related topics and issues. Recognising that media freedom should not just be a concern to media houses or journalists, each event is open the public and is free of charge.

With the series just over a week away, MMA is proud to announce the exquisite line-up of panellists from across the sector, including experts, academics and journalists.

MONDAY 16 October: WEB SURVIVAL GUIDE: FOR CHILDREN AND PARENTS

Harnessing the power of online and avoiding its pitfalls with insights from our very own 

Web Rangers!

The discussion will be facilitated by Joanne Joseph (eNCA) with speakers Diana Schwarz (PPM Attorneys) and Dianne Mc Alpine (LeadSA). We will also have two of our very own Webrangers talking through some of their key learnings about online safety (see: www.webrangers.co.za).

TUESDAY 17 October: THREATS TO JOURNALISM AND STANDING TALL

Unpacking the current threats to journalism and how we can all fight back!

The discussion will be facilitated by Sam Mkokeli (Bloomberg), with speakers Joe Thloloe (Press Council), Katy Katopodis (EWN), Chris Louw (Caxton) and Dumisani Moyo (UJ).

WEDNESDAY 18 October: WHOSE (ON)LINE IS IT ANYWAY?

Understanding what online regulation means for you!

The discussion will be facilitated by Iman Rappetti (PowerFM) with speakers Justine Limpitlaw (Independent legal expert), Lisa MacLeod (Tiso BlackStar) and Avani Singh (ALT Africa).

THURSDAY 19 October: COURTING MEDIA FREEDOM

Join us to find out what Shelley Garland, the SABC, van Breda and Zephany Nurse all have in common. HINT: Media Freedom wins!

The discussion will be facilitated by Stephen Grootes (EWN) with speakers Advocate Steven Budlender, Dario Milo (Webber Wentzel) and Duduetsang Makuse (SOS Coalition).

Not only will we hear the most cutting-edge insights and innovative ideas, but there will also be incredible prizes up for grabs every evening! So bring your party pants and your media ear, and let’s see what good has happened this year!

Please follow online at @MediaMattersza (Twitter), MediaMattersza (Facebook) or our web page (www.mediamonitoringafrica.org) for updates.

To RSVP, please complete the Google Form found here

For more details or inquiries, please contact:

Sarah Findlay or William Bird

Tel: 011 788 1278

Email: sarahf@mma.org.za or williamb@mma.org.za