A gathering that has become a staple in community journalism, the Forum of Community Journalists’ (FCJ) No Guts, No Glory, No Story Seminar returns to Olifants River Lodge in September.

What began in 1994 as a modest workshop at the Botshabelo Mission Station outside Middelburg has grown into a nationally recognised platform for reflection, skill-sharing and discussion among some of the country’s top community journalists.

The growth of this seminar, along with other recent regional FCJ seminars, has been sponsored and supported by Avbob, whose commitment to community media has helped sustain the FCJ’s work over the last few years.

The origin of “No Guts, No Glory, No Story”

According to Tobie van den Bergh, former FCJ director for Mpumalanga and Limpopo, the second seminar took place at Witbank Correctional Services, where Frans Aucamp, the first chairman of the FCJ, spoke passionately about investigative journalism.

He emphasised that without courage, journalists cannot uncover the story, and without the story, there is no glory. Inspired by this message, the seminar became known as the No Guts seminar and has since been held nationwide under the banner No Guts, No Glory, No Story.

A legacy through the lens

This year’s seminar will open with veteran photojournalist Wessel Oosthuizen, who will share highlights from his six decades behind the camera.

His talk will set the tone for a seminar focused not just on technical skills, but on legacy and the evolving role of media in society.

The evening closes with a braai on the banks of the Olifants River.

Facing the future of the press

Friday morning welcomes Phathiswa Magopeni, recently appointed executive director of the Press Council of South Africa. She will outline her priorities for the press in a rapidly shifting landscape.

Her predecessor, Latiefa Mobara, will reflect on the challenges of ethical leadership and institutional continuity in the media sector.

Capturing the moment: A masterclass on light and emotion

A masterclass by acclaimed photographer Johan Orton will follow, titled Chasing the Light, a creative session set to focus on lighting and facial expression in sports journalism.

Holding power to account

In one of the most anticipated sessions, Advocate Gerrie Nel, head of AfriForum’s private prosecution unit, will address the systemic failures of South Africa’s criminal justice system and the unique role of the community press in fostering accountability.

Looking ahead to 2026

The seminar will conclude with former municipal mayor Mike Masina offering a political overview of the road to the 2026 local government elections, a timely topic for reporters covering governance at the grassroots level.

While past seminars have taken attendees to places like Kruisrivier, Graceland, Forever Loskopdam, Forever Warmbad, Carousel and Sondela, the true value of this event has always been in the stories, skills and courage it ignites among those who attend. And this year promises to be no different.

Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel.

Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal.