No stopping Ruda Landman
MELVILLE – Ruda Landman has had a career in journalism for over 30 years and it seems as if there is no slowing down for this woman.
Ruda Landman from Melville probably needs no introduction as most people knew her as the presenter of Carte Blanche for nearly 20 years.
Landman, grew up in Upington and has three older brothers. Her parents were both teachers, which is probably why Landman chose to study languages and education after school.
After she completed her studies, Landman never got into teaching, but started working at the Burger newspaper. In 1981 she started her career in radio presenting which propelled her to a career in news reading for SABC news. “My biggest learning experience was when I started working at the topicality programme, Netwerk.” She said that this was the first programme in South Africa that was broadcast live. “We had no idea how it would work as TV only began a couple of years before in South Africa.”
She explained that this was one of her biggest challenges as the mid 80’s was a tough time in South African history. “The protests at universities now is child’s play compared to that time.” After 18 months as presenter of Netwerk she got the job at Carte Blanche in 1988, which would change her life. “I was raised to always be kind and respectful. In my journalism career, it was difficult to sometimes have to speak up against what is wrong.” She said that she had to remind herself that she is only doing her job and that she has to speak on behalf of the viewers.
After her 19-year career at Carte Blanche, Landman worked with her friend, Linda de Jager on a series about the border war. “After that I was so glad that my son, Johannes (29), was born after the time when all men had to join the army.” Landman is currently busy with the second season of VeranderDinge a Afrikaans series about change momentum in people’s lives. She is also the director of Media24.
“Journalism is the best career for yourself as it pushes you out of your comfort zone. Young journalists have to remember that they are doing a very important job especially in today’s South Africa.” She advised that journalists should not allow themselves to pick sides and always stay objective.
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