National Bua Award 2004
 Winner: Captain Robert ‘Rusty' Higgs
Naval Public Relations
Department of Defence: SA Navy
Background
Captain Higgs was nominated in recognition of his role in professionally and positively profiling the Department of Defence, through the SA Navy. He has risen to the dual challenge of ensuring that the media, and local and international audiences, are continuously aware of the role the Department of Defence plays in the daily lives of South Africans, Africans and the International community, especially focusing on campaigns such as Nepad, the acquisition of the four Valour Class Patrol Corvettes, and the 10 Years of Democracy celebrations.
 Finalist: Thabang Chiloane
Chief Director: Communication
Department of Housing
Background
Thabang joined the Department of Housing at the end of 2003 and established the communication unit which had been without a senior manager for communication for three years. He raised the departmental and ministerial profile to such an extent that media research institute, Media Tenor , declared that more coverage was generated in one month than in the complete two year prior to the elections combined. He built strong relations with the media and provincial housing communicators that led to the proper handling of issues such as Diepsloot and Protea Glen.
 Finalist: Colonel Marthie Visser
Department of Defence
Background
Marthie played a pivotal role in coordinating and implementing successful participation by the Department of Defence in the national celebrations of Ten Years of Freedom and Democracy. She ensured departmental participation during the 27 April Freedom Day and Inauguration activities and compiled communication plans to promote the department's participation in such international, national and provincial events. Her innovative ideas and coordination has promoted the department's communication service excellence and added value to Government's efforts in promoting its image and service delivery to the South African public. top |
