A total of thirty-one radio stations across the commercial, community and public broadcasting sectors have been selected as finalists in the 2011 MTN Radio Awards. The finalists in 30 categories come from just under 400 entries, which is double the number of entries received in last year’s inaugural event. Some stations are multiple finalists, and in the hotly contested commercial radio sector six stations combined make up forty finalists across a number of categories.

“This sets up an intriguing and nail-biting evening on 9 April where any one of a number of excellent stations, presenters or producers will walk away with a coveted award” says Judging Committee joint-chairman Lance Rothschild. “Competition is particularly tight in both the best breakfast show categories – commercial and non-commercial – where there are six and five finalists respectively.”

Judges were also delighted at the high number of entries in the best community project category, where there are seven finalists. Notes Rothschild: “The hallmark of a great station, no matter what its licence designation, is its daily interaction with the community that it serves. All the stations that entered this category understand this, and their listener outreach has been admirable and meaningful.”

There is also plenty of competition this year in the best music show category, with five worthy finalists.  Rothschild says the show that has won this category demonstrated a perfect understanding of what its audience wants as well as a deep appreciation of South African music.

All the winners will be announced at a massive industry event at the Sandton Convention Centre.  It’ll be a gathering of the who’s who in the industry – both past and present – at which new inductees into the MTN Radio Hall of Fame will also be announced.  The prestigious radio station of the year will receive a stunning, radio-themed trophy conceptualised and made by world-famous South African designer Brian Steinhobel. The event is being hosted by a radio legend along with one of the brightest young stars in the business. “If you want to know who they are, as well as all the winners, you have to be there on the night,” says Rothschild.

“MTN is a big believer of radio as a medium of communication in South Africa” says Serame Taukobong,  Chief Marketing Officer at MTN South Africa. “We applaud our local talent and the magnanimous work they’re doing in the communities in which they operate. Radio has the capacity to touch the lives of millions, and MTN is pleased to be honouring the stations that have done so in the past year.”

Ticket bookings close on Thursday the 31st of March and all booking queries can be directed to Esther Sibanda at esthers@thefuture.co.za or 011 803 2040.