From the Nominator

"This is a documentary-style video, associated news articles, and photo album commemorating the 35th anniversary of the Trojan Horse Massacres (THMs) in Cape Town. On October 15-16, 1985, apartheid forces took the lives of five youths and injured many more. 

Four members of the University of Cape Town (UCT) community reflect on the events of 35 years ago, acknowledging the contribution of Western Cape citizens to the anti-apartheid struggle. The project also aimed to shine a light on stories that often go unreported by mainstream media today. 

UCT is decolonising its teaching and research. This project is a public-facing example of harnessing its resources to address local, socially-relevant issues. Many students come from the Cape Flats, the province’s centre of anti-apartheid activism, and where events like the THMs occurred. This positions UCT as using its knowledge and resources to correct historical injustices. 

The project also aligns with UCT’s progressive vision and mission. The 35-year anniversary provided an opportunity for UCT to amplify the voices of its academics and connect to its stakeholders in an authentic and inclusive manner for a socially-just cause."

From the Judges

An ambitious approach to an important and sensitive story by an international research university. With almost no resources, the team set out to tell the story of how the media, government power, a police state, and disinformation resulted in a shocking and tragic loss of life. Unfortunately, these issues are more timely than ever. We applaud this team for their ambition, their straightforward and effective approach, and their recognition of the generational nature of memory.