Tasmia Ismail: General Manager
It is simply an honour to be part of celebrating 35 years of a brand that stands strong in the hearts and homes of the people in Nelson Mandela Bay.
I was reappointed at Media24 in Port Elizabeth 14 years ago, by applying for a sales position advertised in the PE Express.
Today, I have the privilege of leading this phenomenal publication into its 35th year.
This is the power that lies within this brand.
PE Express bears testament that PRINT IS BY NO MEANS DEAD.
To distribute 120 000 copies of a weekly free-sheet to the doors of readers (in rain or sun) is one massive task.
Without our fantastic teams on editorial, sales, production and behind the scenes, this milestone would not have been possible.
This is the opportunity to thank each of you, our readers, advertisers, stakeholders and suppliers for their loyal and ongoing support.
Without you, 35 years would simply have not been possible.
We will remain committed to serving our communities and helping to grow local business for another 35 years to come.
Here’s to another 35 years!
Bettie Giliomee-Rossouw: Editor
Five years ago I had the privilege of writing a birthday message for PE Express’ 30th birthday anniversary.
Looking back at that message, I realise that while many things have since changed, PE Express has not wavered in staying true to the roots that form the foundation and core of this newspaper.
Half a decade on, the print media landscape has changed drastically. Many newspapers had to scale down with subscriber and advertising revenues under pressure from social and digital media.
Fake news became one of the biggest enemies of all media – whether online or print.
Bucking the trend, Port Elizabeth Express has, with the launch of its sister publications, in the past five years expanded its footprint across the Eastern Cape, bringing a free, local newspaper, with news that is relevant and trustworthy to even more communities across our province.
The reason for this could very well be the fact that, as was the case five years and 35 years ago, the newspaper gives the local community a voice and platform, while remaining a trustworthy source of relevant news in changing times.
And to make sure that the community’s voice is heard for many years to come, the newspaper is led by a very strong and passionate managing team that will ensure that it stays with the times, while remaining true to the communities it serves – its roots.
