East Coast Radio scoops two awards at the 2014 MTN Radio Awards

East Coast Radio has more reasons to celebrate after bagging two awards at the prestigious MTN Radio Awards at the Sandton Convention Centre (12 April 2014).

(Winners Jason McCall and Damon Beard - Image Supplied) 

The Drive with Damon team return home armed with the Best Promotions/Stunt Award for Freebie Thursday – the second consecutive year that East Coast Radio has won the award. Presenter Damon Beard and his former producer Jason McCall could barely contain their excitement as they ran up on stage to be recognised amongst the cream of the broadcasting industry’s crop.

“We are so chuffed,” beamed Damon. “The competition was extra tough this year so win the award is huge for us and we’re super-proud!”

McCall added, “It’s an honour to win an award for something I love doing so much. I am humbled and too stoked!”

Freebie Thursday saw the Drive with Damon team using East Coast Radio’s multi-media platforms to create a buzz and recognise listeners, turning an ordinary Thursday into an extraordinary listener-experience.

While Damon is a seasoned East Coast Radio personality, up and coming behind-the-scenes producer, Salendran Thulukanam, was one of six young individuals honoured for their talent, for making their mark and for showing promise for the future of radio. Salendran is the proud recipient of the MTN Bright Stars Award, saying he is “humbled by the recognition.”

East Coast Radio’s Programming Manager, Zane Derbyshire, says, “Our impressive 13 nominations this year  together with our wins is testament to the innovative way that we program the station and these wins are a true recognition of the talented people on our team!”

But the station’s accolades didn’t end there. East Coast Radio presenter Zaba, dazzled as co-host of the 2014 MTN Radio Awards, alongside veteran Alex Jay. Zaba looked resplendent in her designer gear and did KZN proud!

Speaking of honour,  Omar Essack, the CEO of Broadcasting at Kagiso Media (East Coast Radio’s parent body) was honoured in the Hall of Fame.

The MTN Radio Awards recognise excellence in radio across South Africa. It’s about rewarding those individuals and organisations who combine talent, hard work and skill to ensure that their listeners are compelled.

The latest awards add to East Coast Radio existing tally for MTN Radio Awards. The station won Best Commercial Promotions Stunt in 2013, Best Community Project for Toy Story in 2012 and Best Content Producer in 2011. ECR also received the Station of the Year nomination in 2013.