Recognition for Buthelezi’s hard work with Isolezwe promotion
WHAT do you do when you unexpectedly bump into Nelson Mandela, or when IFP leader Mangosuthu Buthelezi barges into your office demanding to see you? You keep your wits about you, of course, like any good journalist.
And that is exactly what Lindani Buthelezi has done in an 18-year career.
Working for over 12 years in the hub of South Africa’s mostread daily vernacular newspaper, Isolezwe, has equipped Buthelezi with all the skills to be calm under pressure and to always expect the unexpected.
Buthelezi, who has been appointed deputy editor of Independent Media’s trio of Isolezwe publications in KwaZulu-Natal, joined the company as a general reporter in 2002 and gradually worked his way to the position of news editor in 2009.
He has seen the publication through its different stages of development and understands its nature and the target market. And yes, he did come face to face with Mandela and Buthelezi.
His career highlight was an unplanned meeting with Mandela, while the IFP leader stormed the Isolezwe offices in 2011 and demanded an audience with the then news editor.
Today he is an integral part of Isolezwe and while his rise through the ranks to the position of deputy editor is testament to his perseverance and hard work, it is another example of the career growth opportunities that Independent Media provides its staff.
Independent Media executive chairman Dr Iqbal Survé congratulated Buthelezi on his appointment.
“Recognising and developing talent and rewarding hard work are intrinsic to our transformation strategy at Independent Media,” Dr Survé said.
“Lindani is a fine example of someone who has earned his rightful place on our senior editorial team. His story is one of hard work and dedication. He is a fine role model for our many young journalists throughout the company.”
Isolezwe editor Sazi Hadebe welcomed Buthelezi’s appointment. “I have no doubt that he will be equal to the task, given his huge understanding of all Isolezwe operations,” Sazi said.
Buthelezi has a National Diploma in Journalism from ML Sultan Technikon (which merged with the Technikon Natal in 2002 and is now known as the Durban University of Technology). He also holds various management certificates.
Lindani replaces Slindile Khanyile, who was appointed deputy editor of the Daily News in December.