The PRISA Gold Medal has honoured remarkable individuals who have used public PR and communication to reach the people of southern Africa and place South Africa on the global map. These recipients have not only benefited their organisations, but, in many cases, have impacted greatly on communities in need of increased awareness.
The medal, granted only eight times during PRISA's fifty-year history, has been awarded to Dr Chris Barnard, former presidents Nelson Mandela and FW de Klerk, Mark Shuttleworth, Dr Nick Diederichs, Gary Player, Dr JG Loubser and Louis Rive – and now Tutu.
PRISA president Mixael de Kock says that the body recognises Tutu as a worthy recipient for raising the profile, image and reputation of SA as a country able to transform, develop and progress despite the challenges it faced. He was the most influential person in the peace and reconciliation process which he facilitated with dignity and empathy for all.
“In essence, the Archbishop Emeritus has shown the world the true meaning of humanity and compassion and how these comprise the warp and weft through which the rich patterns of civil society are threaded.”
The annual PRISM Awards take place at Vodaworld on 26 March and the event this year boasts the highest number of entries received.
