There was something symbolic about this year’s gsport Awards judging session. Hosted at the home of creative titans, Red Cherry Interactive, the atmosphere was electric, a celebration of gsport’s legacy and a bold step forward in honouring women who are changing the game.
This year’s judging panel featured an all-star lineup of gsport winners: women who’ve walked the path, broken barriers, and now give back to uplift others.
The 2025 gsport Awards Esteemed Judging Panel
Hazel Gumede – 2007 Hall of Famer and 80s netball great
Clare Vale – Veteran racer, 2009 Personal Account Writer, and business leader
Mapaseka Makhanya – Former Athlete of the Year and businesswoman
Cynthia Tshaka – Sports broadcasting icon and 2015 Special Recognition winner
Jane Bramley – 2021 Hall of Famer and print journalism pioneer
The panel deliberated over a powerful mix of public nominations and standout candidates surfaced through gsport newsroom’s in-depth research, ensuring excellence did not go unnoticed.
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gsport Founder Kass Naidoo opened the session with heartfelt appreciation:
“No one imagined we’d be sitting here 20 years later, shortlisting finalists for the longest-running women’s sports recognition platform on the continent.”
The judges echoed her sentiments. “Great day to be a gsport judge, learning about sport through different lenses of formidable women, who are also past gsport winners. I’m grateful to have been part of the #gsport20 journey.” – Mapaseka Makhanya, businesswoman and former Athlete of the Year
“Working with the gsport Awards judging panel was an inspiring and uplifting experience. It was incredibly difficult to make selections with so many deserving nominees, but each judge brought their knowledge and experience to the table to ensure that the finalists truly earned their places.” – Clare Vale, 2009 gsport Award winner and racing trailblazer
“It was special indeed. Thank you for having me. I enjoyed being in the panel again surrounded by the gsport family.” – Hazel Gumede, gsport Trustee and 2007 Hall of Famer
The panel was treated to a beautifully curated spread by rising culinary star Chef Kea, whose thoughtful menu kept judges energised and focused.
Judges also had the opportunity to meet the dynamic team at Red Cherry Interactive and learn more about the creative powerhouse that proudly hosted this milestone moment.
The scores are in and being verified by gsport auditors. Finalists will be announced soon, kicking off public voting and the countdown to the biggest celebration of women in sport on the continent.
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Main Photo Caption: Marking the Judging of the 2025 gsport Awards were (from left) iconic sports broadcaster, Cynthia Tshaka, 2015 Special Recognition winner; Veteran motor-racing driver, Clare Vale, 2009 Personal Account Writer; print journalism pioneer, Jane Bramley and 2021 Hall of Famer; Pheladi Mphhlele, CEO of Judging hosts, Red Cherry Interactive; Red Cherry Interactive Partner and Director, Jenna Murray-Smith; Mapaseka Makhanya, former gsport Awards Athlete of the Year winner; gsport Founder, Kass Naidoo, #GSPORT20 Auditor, Vuyo Sondlo, and gsport Trustee and 2007 Hall of Famer, Hazel Gumede. All Photos: gsport
Photo 2 Caption: The 2025 gsport Awards Judges (from left) Hazel Gumede, Mapaseka Makhanya, Jane Bramley, Cynthia Tshaka and Clare Vale.
Photo 3 Caption: It was a serious affair. Seriously! The gsport Awards campaign is indebted to Red Cherry Interactive for their generous hosting of the esteemed Awards Judging Panel for the 2025 gsport Awards.
