IABC Africa’s communicators clinch 2024 Gold Quill Awards

The International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) is proud to announce the South African recipients of the 2024 Gold Quill Awards, an honour that marks a significant milestone in the global communication industry.

For over four decades, the Gold Quill Awards have exemplified excellence in strategic communication worldwide, setting standards that inspire professionals to strive for impact and excellence in their work. This year, South African communicators earned seven prestigious awards across various categories.

The 2024 South African Gold Quill Award winners are:

• Excellence in Nonprofit Sector Communication: The Data Driven Districts programme team, New Leaders Foundation.

• Excellence in Special and Experiential Events: Kirsty Niehaus, CMP®, Nando’s.

• Excellence in Special and Experiential Events: The University of the Free State team.

• Excellence in Social Media: Janine Botes and Lindiwe Moss, Kolomela Mine, Kumba Iron Ore.

• Merit in Communication Training and Education: Christine Breet and Therésa Lee, Christine Breet Communication.

• Merit in Communication Training and Education: Sean Aspeling, Anglo American.

• Merit in Writing: Ilse Blank, SCMP®.

Camilla Osborne, SCMP® and chairperson of IABC Africa, commented, “This year’s Gold Quill recipients from South Africa are not just winners; they are ambassadors of our rich, diverse cultures and our unique approach to strategic communication. Their success is a beacon that illuminates the path for future generations of communicators across the continent. These awards are a powerful affirmation of the critical role communicators play in shaping business landscapes, not just in Africa, but globally. Each recipient’s journey is a case study in excellence, resilience, and visionary thinking.”

The Gold Quills are not easy to achieve, and each entry undergoes rigorous evaluation by a panel of seasoned professionals from across the globe. The process ensures that award recipients’ work demonstrates measurable impact and is deserving of the accolade.

This year, 378 entries from 17 countries were submitted, and 87 Awards of Merit and 43 Awards of Excellence were awarded. Nine countries are represented among the winners, which come from a cross-section of public and private sector organisations, both large and small.