(Posted 17th April 2025)
Africa Travel Week (ATW) has announced the winners of its
prestigious 2025 Media Awards, with five journalists recognised for excellence in travel reporting
across the continent. A distinguished judging panel featuring Pat Riddell (National Geographic
Traveller UK), Barry Neild (CNN Travel), Ellie Rothnie (Canon Ambassador), and Kojo Bentum-
Williams (VoyagesAfriq) selected the winners from a competitive field of entries.
Now in their second year, the ATW Media Awards celebrate outstanding travel journalism that
brings Africa's diverse tourism destinations to global audiences. Quality reporting plays a crucial
role in shaping perceptions and raising awareness of the continent's travel offerings.
‘Compelling storytelling is essential for showcasing Africa's extraordinary destinations and
experiences‘ says Megan De Jager, Portfolio Director – Travel, Tourism & RX Africa Marketing before adding: ‘These award-winning journalists exemplify the highest standards of travel reporting, helping to position Africa within the global tourism conversation.’
2025 ATW Media Awards Winners:
DESTINATION FEATURE: Mike Unwin Mike Unwin claimed the top prize for his piece Rock of
Ages in Travel Africa magazine, a vivid exploration of Zimbabwe's UNESCO World Heritage
Site, the Matobo Hills.
SUSTAINABILITY: Summer Rylander
Summer Rylander’s thoughtful analysis ‘What Does Successful Low-Volume, High-Value
Tourism Look Like’ examines Botswana’s distinctive approach to balancing tourism
development with environmental conservation.
VISUAL TOURISM: Ryan Enslin
Ryan Enslin’s captivating photo essay ‘A Wild Wild Life’ documents the unique wildlife
encounters possible in Cape Town, revealing an unexpected side of urban Africa.
TOURISM NEWS: Shanna Jacobsen
Shanna Jacobsen’s investigative report ‘Addressing the Train-Retain Drain’ examines critical
staffing challenges facing South Africa’s incentive travel industry in the post-pandemic
landscape.
YOUNG TALENT: Qaqamba Matundu
Qaqamba Matundu won for her remarkable report on the rediscovery of South Africa’s ‘lost’
golden mole, highlighting both an important conservation milestone and emerging journalistic
talent.
The annual ATW Media Awards are open to all media practitioners including journalists,
bloggers, videographers, and photographers producing content related to African travel. The
programme forms part of Africa Travel Week’s broader initiatives to promote the continent's
tourism offerings to international markets.
