Succumbing to cancer, one of South Africa’s most creative journalists passed away early on Saturday morning.
Though Munadia Karaan was associated with Voice of the Cape [VOC], a community radio broadcaster, her vibrant personality endeared her to many people across South Africa’s social and media platforms. In many ways Karaan’s name was synonymous with alternate media especially since the advent of Muslim radio stations.
Her involvement with the growth and development of VOC stems back to its formation during 1995. Taking up a full-time position five years later, Karaan excelled in her role as programme manager. She was also instrumental in developing VOC Open Lines, an interactive talk-show fielding many controversial issues with resolve and confidence. Along with a variety of programmes that she hosted, Karaan’s knowledge of subjects discussed reflected her passion and devotion.
“The ability to influence the way people think and interact with the world is as powerful as it is addictive. But it also comes with a huge responsibility that I take very seriously. For as long as there are issues that have to be probed and I feel I can make a difference by helping to create understanding, there is a reason to come back into the studio” is a quote attributed to Karaan that sums up her professionalism.
Her illness didn’t hamper her enthusiasm as she continued conceptualizing exciting shows. Karaan is also credited for initiating VOC’s highly popular website and remained engaged in keeping abreast with technological advances as its webmaster until she breathed her last.
Media Review Network members who were regularly grilled by her on a variety of subjects attest to her skillful, articulate and probing attributes. In addition to her journalistic prowess, Karaan was also known for her social activism.
In her own words she was often quoted sharing the meaning of her name: “To be a ‘Munadir’ – a caller to Islam. It is how I can serve my Creator by serving humanity.”
Munadia Karaan’s tenacity and intelligence shaped and positioned alternate community media as a potent force able to compete with the best commercial radio broadcasters. Her footprint in this medium is larger than life and will continue to inspire up and coming journalists.
We offer our sincere condolences to her parents, family, friends and colleagues. May the All-Mighty Allah grant her eternal bliss in Jannah.
Iqbal Jassat
Executive Member: Media Review Network
Johannesburg
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