The Journalist Who Moved a Nation | Johannesburg News

Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of Gift of the Givers, pays heartfelt tribute to late journalist Estelle Ellis, whose fearless reporting and compassion became a lifeline during crises across Nelson Mandela Bay and the Eastern Cape. Known for her relentless pursuit of truth — often calling Sooliman with urgent, well-researched alerts about hunger, drought, or pandemic needs — Ellis didn’t just expose problems; she mobilized solutions, like rallying for 5,000 wheelchairs. Her journalism gave dignity to the marginalized, amplified their voices without sensationalism, and always left room for accountability. Sooliman recalls their 2019 meeting as a moment of profound connection, recognizing her as a true patriot. Beyond honoring Ellis, he urges South Africans to take ownership of their nation, reject waiting for saviors, and support grassroots heroes. He also calls on government to see journalists not as enemies but as vital allies — listening to them can transform systems. And while Gift of the Givers began as an instinctive response to suffering — spiritual, not strategic — Sooliman’s message is clear: collective action, not grand plans, can heal a broken country. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/95a0c57dc9d81be7