Press freedom devotee Prakash Desai receives Print Media Fellowship

Avusa Media Limited group chief executive Prakash Desai was honoured with a Print Media Fellowship for his contribution to press freedom in South Africa. He was presented with the fellowship tonight (10 May) at the Mondi Shanduka Newspaper Awards.

Championed by Print Media South Africa (PMSA), the accolade honours individuals for their integrity, determination and dedication to the betterment of the South African newspaper industry.

Commenting on the award to Prakash, Tony Howard, CEO of the Independent Newspapers and a vice president of PMSA said, "It is most fitting that this year's award has gone to Prakash. He has been tireless in his efforts to ensure that the PMSA is constantly focused on its purpose and on the many and diverse challenges that face the print industry."

A chartered accountant by profession, Prakash also holds the position of president of Print Media South Africa. For the past decade, he has consistently played an important role in industry matters, serving and contributing to numerous boards representing both the newspaper industry and other sectors. These include the World Association of Newspapers and Newspaper Publishers, the University of the Witwatersrand Health consortium and the University of Venda Foundation.

One of his contributions to the industry was the initiation of discussions with the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) regarding industry concerns about the role of the MDDA. He also introduced transformation as an agenda item at PMSA, requesting the industry to take up a strategic approach to BEE.

A budding golfer and a hiking enthusiast, he attributes his well-balanced lifestyle to the support he receives from his family. Prakash is a strict vegetarian who lives by the philosophy, 'be good, do good'.