Brent Ellis recognised for excellence in motoring journalism

The award, which is part of the Toyota Financial Services/SAGMJ Motoring Journalist of the Year competition, was created in memory of the late motoring editor of City Press newspaper, Steve Dlamini-Kabini, who died at the age of 32 in a motorcycle accident in February 2008. It recognises outstanding achievement by a motoring journalist who has been in the industry for less than five years and more than two.

Making a mark in motoring media

Ellis also won the award for Best New Media (Online) Motoring. He started the motoring section of the UJ Observer in 2006 when he was an 18-year-old student and later became the motoring editor of Mambaonline.com before joining DieselDrive magazine, where he was appointed deputy editor in 2012. In addition, he added Dossier magazine to his growing portfolio together with Youngpro.co.za and freelance work for Wheels annual.

"Brent is a fine example of the kind of enterprising young motoring journalist that Steve was and we're proud to continue to be associated with this important Guild award," said Jan Maritz, Bridgestone's advertising and promotions manager.

"He follows in the footsteps of three other young recipients of the award, Minesh Bhagaloo (2009), Andrew Leopold (2010) and Lance Branquinho (2012) who have gone on to make their mark with leading national motoring publications and more than justify their recognition by the Guild," concluded Maritz.