Octavia Elsie Hlungwani (Ngondo) was described as a “fearless community print media activist [and] dedicated publisher” by her colleagues at Association of Independent Publishers (AIP).
She had a long-standing history in the South African media industry. At the time of her passing, Octavia was a board member at AIP and the Advertising Regulatory Board. She was also the publisher of a monthly community newspaper, Phofula Golden Highway Voice, which was distributed along the lines of the golden highway in the south of Johannesburg to create awareness and for marketing.
The media fraternity as a whole remembers her for the steadfastness and unwavering commitment to community media and print media. At AIP, she worked tirelessly to motivate for the sustainability of a diverse and robust community print media sector.
Latiefa Mobara, Executive Director of the Press Council, said “as a publisher and member of the AIP, Sisi Octavia will be remembered for her enormous contribution to the creation and development of diverse voices in the publishing industry.”
Kate Skinner, Executive Director of the AIP, said, “Sisi Octavia was a larger-than-life person. She was a whirlwind of energy and purpose. She was someone who could get things done. She spoke her mind, but this was coupled with a deep warmth and kindness”.
Octavia passed away on Wednesday, 10 January 2024 at her home in Ennerdale, Johannesburg after a short illness. She is survived by her husband, Magezi Mackson Hlungwani, her daughter, Nompumelelo Mkhonza, her son, Nyandayeyo Hlungwani, and her three grandchildren.
frayintermedia sends its heartfelt condolences and sympathies to those near and dear to Octavia.
