Associate Juror – Charles Molefe, a motoring enthusiast, has contributed to Kasie FM, TopGear South Africa, and The Mail & Guardian. He shares his expertise on his blog, Gottagged.

Azim is an experienced journalist and Chartered Accountant known for his analytical thinking in motor journalism. He serves as the SAGMJ treasurer and brings strong financial and industry insight to the jury.

Kumbi is a dynamic motoring journalist and host of MorningshowSA, contributing across multiple platforms while shaping contemporary motoring conversations.

A motoring writer since 1974, Colin Windell launched Fleet magazine, which ran successfully for 20 years. He currently freelances for Carshop.co.za and other automotive platforms.

Nicky Furniss is an experienced editor and journalist currently serving as Senior Editor at TCB Media. She has contributed to numerous high-profile publications throughout her career.

Alan turned a lifelong passion for motoring into a full-time career with the launch of MotorMatters, which has grown into a comprehensive motoring journalism platform spanning editorial, social media, and video content.

Liana Reiners is a skilled motoring journalist with extensive experience in automotive reporting and reviews. Her passion for cars and strong editorial voice make her a trusted industry authority.

Ziphora Masethe began her motoring journalism career in 2016 after earning a BTech in Journalism and is recognised as a rising talent in the industry.

COTY Committee Member – Jason Woosey is the Motoring Editor of IOL and a respected authority on automotive design and innovation. As a COTY 2026 Committee member, he brings deep editorial and industry experience to the judging process.

Marnus Hattingh is the motoring editor for Afrikaans titles at Media24 and has over two decades of industry experience. He is also the co-author of Zanzibar Zen.

Janine has led News24 Motoring since 2019 and is committed to promoting fairness, honesty, and increased female representation within the motoring industry.

COTY Committee Member – Brendon Staniforth is a veteran motoring journalist renowned for his in-depth reviews and passion for the automotive industry. As a committee member for COTY 2026, he contributes strategic oversight alongside his extensive editorial experience at Maroela Media.

Mabuyane Mabuza launched MotorMania and serves as the motoring specialist for Kaya FM, blending expertise across print, digital, and radio platforms.

Associate Juror – Brandon Jacobs, Founder of SnapChange Media, is a versatile automotive journalist, photographer, and videographer creating dynamic motoring content.

Fanele Bengu manages Isolezwe’s motoring content across print and digital platforms. He began his career under the mentorship of respected SAGMJ juror Lindani Buthelezi.

COTY Committee – Brenwin is the motoring editor for Sowetan and Sunday Times Lifestyle, known for his award-winning journalism and recognition on the Mail & Guardian Top 200 Young South Africans list.

Edward Makwana has held senior roles including Group PR & Brand Officer at Tshwaledi Investments and Product Communications Manager for BMW South Africa. He currently contributes to Forbes Africa, Leadership Magazine, YourLuxury Africa, and Skyways.

COTY Chairman – For the second year running, Thami Masemola returns as COTY Chairman. He is the founder of IN4RIDE and a respected voice on Radio 2000 and Power 987. A trailblazer in motoring journalism, Thami provides strategic leadership and oversight to the Car of the Year programme.

COTY Committee – Lerato co-founded Clipping Point Publishing, which publishes TopGear Magazine SA and Mail & Guardian Motoring. He has been a SAGMJ juror eight times.

Riyad has been a key contributor to the Lenasia Times Group, focusing on motoring journalism and editorial development.

Bernard Hellberg Jr is the Publishing Director at TCB Media, specialising in motoring, business, and technology content. He oversees premium publications and client relationships across the inflight and specialist media space.

COTY Committee Member – Sibonelo Myeni is the founder of iMoto Media and a contributor to Ukhozi FM. As a COTY 2026 Committee member, he plays a key role in broadening motoring education and accessibility through indigenous languages.

Francisco Nwamba is a creative force in automotive journalism, best known for The Motorist and as host of Ignition GT. He is also the co-founder of digital agency SoSocial South Africa.

Wezile Bonani has written for lifestyle magazines and now manages Lorenzio Productions. His motoring work spans radio, television, and print, including BayFM’s Sunday Soul Session.

A former racing driver and motoring journalist, Jeanette set the South African Women’s Land Speed Record and co-hosts the Afrikaans motoring radio show Wiele2Wiele.

Phuti Mpyane, former editor of Cars In Action and director at Vanquish Media, is a prominent motoring journalist in South Africa’s automotive industry.

Sean Nurse is an AutoTrader writer and video creator who began his career as a SAGMJ bursary recipient and continues to build his presence across digital motoring platforms.

Sheryl Goldstuck is the General Manager at World Wide Worx and a contributor to Gadget and GadgetWheels. She is a leading voice in consumer technology and motoring media.

Gugu has experience in print and broadcast journalism, sharing his expertise through platforms like Sowetan Motoring and Ignition TV.

Ferdi de Vos brings decades of experience to the motoring world as a respected journalist and storyteller. His deep industry knowledge and authoritative voice have earned him a prominent reputation in South African motoring media.