Stellenbosch University’s (SU) Media Manager, Martin Viljoen, usually works behind the scenes to promote the institution and his beloved hometown, but earlier this week he was in the spotlight as the recipient of a distinguished media award.

Viljoen and two other local media professionals were celebrated at the prestigious e-Bosch Honorary Awards Function, presented at the SU Museum by the e-Bosch Heritage Project. This year’s awards were themed “Excellence in the Media Industry in Service of the Stellenbosch Community”.

Viljoen received the award in recognition of his exceptional contributions as SU’s spokesperson to promote a positive image of the University and the town. Veteran journalist Elsabé Retief was honoured for her work as long-time editor of Eikestad News, and in her capacity as editor, Carol Lakay accepted an award bestowed upon Stellenbosch Magazine.

The annual event forms part of the wider e-Bosch heritage project, which promotes social cohesion and a shared identity across Stellenbosch’s diverse communities. Supported by both SU and the local municipality, e-Bosch empowers individuals and nurtures relationships through a range of initiatives, including the Heritage Month festivities, the Heritage Awards, the popular School Choir Festival and community upliftment programmes such as youth entrepreneurship development.

Celebrating heritage, communication and community

The evening opened with a warm welcome from e-Bosch’s Dr Sias Mostert, who emphasised the importance of both tangible and intangible heritage and the role of media in weaving together the social fabric of the town. He lauded the efforts of those who dedicate themselves to strengthening community bonds through effective communication and storytelling.

In his address, Prof Deresh Ramjugernath, Rector and Vice-Chancellor of SU, praised the award recipients, noting that their work embodies the spirit of service, belonging and positive change. “Heritage is not only about what we inherit from those who came before us. It’s also about what we choose to build together,” he stated.

Ramjugernath reaffirmed the University’s commitment to social impact, academic innovation and the cultivation of strong, diverse partnerships. Addressing the honourees, he added: “Whether through education, storytelling, journalism, conservation or community service, you have each shown how one person’s commitment can ripple outward to benefit many. That ripple effect is something that we are hoping to build at Stellenbosch University.”

He mentioned that SU is proud of Viljoen’s enduring contribution. “As the University’s spokesperson, his work reflects our commitment to being an active part of the Stellenbosch community – strengthening our partnership with the town and contributing to its social and economic upliftment,” Ramjugernath said.

Honouring dedication and teamwork

In the commendation read before Viljoen received his certificate, it was noted that, as an SU graduate with an honours degree in journalism, he has built a career defined by “professionalism, empathy and storytelling”.

For over twenty years Viljoen has been the steady voice behind thousands of media releases highlighting the University’s research breakthroughs, achievements and people. Known for his calm authority and unfailing courtesy, he has guided SU through periods of intense public scrutiny with measured confidence and integrity, the commendation stated.

Viljoen said it was an honour to receive recognition from the wider Stellenbosch community. “However, communication is a team sport, and any award of this nature is thus also an acknowledgement of a dedicated team and the skilled directors of communication I have had the privilege of working with over many years,” he added.

Tertia Kruger, Director: Communications at SU’s Corporate Communication and Marketing Division, described Viljoen as “a legendary and indispensable member” of the University’s communications team. “His dedication and steadfast commitment to managing and protecting the University’s reputation and engaging with our audiences in a mutually respectful and transparent manner, has been one of the cornerstones of realising our strategic vision.”

Custodians of memory and identity

The importance of community engagement, unity and heritage was also echoed in a message delivered on behalf of Stellenbosch Executive Mayor Jeremy Fasser by Councillor Ndipiwe Olayi, who acknowledged the connections between heritage, diversity and shared success within the municipality. Olayi said the e-Bosch Awards reflect the deep respect the Stellenbosch community holds for those who dedicate themselves to preserving its culture, history and environment.

He described the award winners as the custodians of the town’s collective memory and champions of a shared identity. “Your work ensures that future generations will continue to walk our streets, visit our sites and feel the heartbeat and the history beneath their feet,” Olayi said.

At the event, two Exceptional Service Awards were also presented to Stellenbosch community members Glynis Meyer and Elsabé Farao. 

The e-Bosch Awards function reaffirmed the ongoing collaboration between SU, the municipality and the local community as they work together to build an inclusive, vibrant future for all.