Indy photojournalist Ayanda Ndamane wins big at Vodacom awards

INDEPENDENT Media photojournalist Ayanda Ndamane bagged the Vodacom Journalist of the Year award in the photography category for his “Caught in the crossfire” picture published in the Cape Times earlier this year.

The picture captured during a community protest in Dunoon, near Milnerton depicts a child in school uniform running through plumes of black smoke on a road littered with dirt and rubble.

The protest was sparked by the demolition of a brick structure used for business.

About Ndamane’s winning entry, the judges remarked: “The national winner succeeded in capturing a meditation on both the past and present of South Africa in one image – a composition that frames the stark tension between innocence and turmoil, through burning barricades and shifting light. For this powerful image capturing a young boy cutting through smoke-wreathed violent protests in Dunoon, Western Cape.”

Commenting on his award, Ndamane said his work was motivated by highlighting social issues that often get overlooked because they happen in poor communities.

“I want to thank the communities that allow us to tell their stories. When I captured this picture I knew there was something special about it. It communicated a powerful message that cannot be ignored- a young boy risking it all for his education. His story is one of many children in our country, sadly. I also want to express my deepest gratitude for those who still believe in the work that we do.”

Congratulating Ndamane, Cape Times editor Siyavuya Mzantsi said: “Ayanda is one of the most talented photographers we are blessed to have. He has a sharp eye for the stories that speak to the issues confronting our communities. This award is a testament to his hard work. A humble colleague, Ayanda lets his lens do the talking. This winning entry is proof of that.”

Cape Times