This academy has been specialising in community journalism since 2006, arming cadets with the tools to become efficient and professional journalists.
Henrica, or Ricky as she is known, received second place for Cadet of the Year obtaining an A+ grade. She is the George Herald's first cadet to undergo training with other cadets from the Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal pro-vinces at Caxton, under the guidance of ve-teran journalist Gien Elsas and Ingrid Pepler.
During the year she also completed a certificate in basic community journalism through Unisa, apart from her part-time on-the-job training at the George Herald and Oudtshoorn Courant.
"I was in Grade 9 as a learner at Pacaltsdorp Secondary School when I realised that writing was my real passion. I would love nothing better than to be able to tell people's stories, to educate those who crave knowledge, to be a voice to those who go unheard and to enable people to interact and embrace the meaning of Ubuntu. I would like to thank the George Herald management for the opportunity they have given me," said Henrica.
George Herald news editor, Lizette da Silva, who acted as Ricky's mentor throughout the year, predicts a bright future for this young star. "She has more drive and determination than most young people I have ever encountered. On top of this she has natural writing talent and a passion for people and their stories. What more does a journalist need?"
A very serious Henrica at a protest action in Oudtshoorn last week. She helped out at the George Herald's sister newspaper, the Oudtshoorn Courant. Photo: Hannes Visser
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