A word from the board
Dear ONO member,
The second quarter of a year is usually ‘conference season’, so we expect this newsletter to find you in a bit of a conference mode. And we hope in Cape Town mood!
In this newsletter, we look forward to ONO2024, between May 15 and 18 at the Media24 headquarters in Cape Town, South Africa.
As the programme takes shape, it is becoming packed with panels, speeches and speakers promising the high level of exchange of opinions, best practice and tips that you have come to expect from an ONO annual conference. We give you more than a sneak preview below. Not all the slots are filled, so if you wish to take part as a speaker or panelist, please let us know.
From insights into disinformation in election coverage to the weaponization of language. And from reporting on conflict to self-regulation and the sustainability of ombuds positions and press councils. This conference will give you a truly global perspective on the important task of making media accountable.
Thanks to our host Media24, and the tireless work by organisers George Claassen (News24 ombuds and ONO board member) and Latiefa Mobara (South African Press Council).
Also, you will find instructions on conference registration and fee payment. We made it as easy as possible, but if you run into problems, please drop us a note and we’ll help you REGISTER. You will also find hotel information, including a special rate for ONO2024 participants at one of the fine hotels closest to the conference venue.
And to whet your appetite, do explore this gift article from The New York Times: 36 Hours in Cape Town, in which our spectacular host city is emerging as the culturally rich African hub it is.
We hope to see you in Cape Town soon!
Margo Smit, president
Jack Nagler, vice-president
Elisabeth Ribbans, treasurer
Chris Elliott, executive director
Hotels
Here is a brief list of possible hotels where delegates can stay in Cape Town for the ONO conference. They are easily accessible through booking.com etc.
The Onyx Hotel
The Onyx: this hotel is opposite Media24’s conference venue and we now have a special rate for delegates.
Please quote ‘ONO conference’ or the block number 856702 if you wish to get the special rate.
There are currently 15 rooms at this rate but we may be able to ask for more if people book early enough.
14 to 19 May 2024 (including 1 pre and 1 post conference night)
15 x Mix of Studio and 1-bedroom Apartments
R2715 ($143.00) per room per night, single occupancy
R2995 ($158.00) per room per night, double occupancy
The Onyx Hotel website
Booking.com
The Park Inn by Radisson
On the same side of Adderley Street, about 100 meters from the Onyx Hotel
Radissonhotels.com
The Capetonian Hotel
Also very close, just around the corner from the Onyx
The Capetonian – Guest Reservations
The Westin
200 metres from Media24 (our closing dinner will be held here
Marriott Bonvoy
StayEasy Hotel (Bree Street)
A little bit further away from Media24 (ten minutes walk) but very popular as it is in the vibrant part of the City
Booking.com
This is your newsletter!
If you want to share your own experiences or have reports all ONO members should know about, find us at newsombudsmenorg@gmail.com and we will include it in ONO’s next newsletter.
