Ananias Ndlovu Named One of Top 100 Influential Men

Ananias Ndlovu, a respected figure in South Africa’s community media landscape, was honoured on Sunday as one of the Top 100 Influential Men – Joburg Edition. The prestigious recognition ceremony took place at Gold Reef City and was hosted by Big M Productions.

Ndlovu received the accolade in recognition of his long-standing contribution to the development of community media. As the publisher of Naledi News and founder of the North West Media Awards, he has played a critical role in supporting independent journalism and promoting accountability through grassroots reporting.

The Top 100 Influential Men is an initiative under the broader National Influential Men & Artes Awards (IMAA), which celebrates excellence across various sectors including business, arts, leadership, and community development. The awards aim to highlight men who are positively shaping South Africa’s future through their work and influence.

Speaking at the event, Ndlovu said, “This award is not just about me—it’s about the power of community media and its role in giving people a voice. I am humbled and honoured to be included among such impactful individuals.

The 2025 Johannesburg edition followed the successful 2024 IMAA ceremony held in Cape Town and was attended by notable leaders, creatives, and changemakers from across the country. The event also received wide media coverage via BigM TV and other platforms.

Ndlovu’s inclusion in the Top 100 Influential Men underscores the growing recognition of community media as a force for social change and development in South Africa.