Heidi Giokos joins SABC as weekend Fullview presenter after eNCA dismissal

Heidi Giokos has joined the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) as a presenter on the weekend edition of Fullview, making her debut on the programme on Monday, the public broadcaster confirmed on the same day.

Move to SABC after eNCA exit

Giokos’s appointment comes weeks after her reported dismissal from eNCA in July. According to reports, she was dismissed for appearing in a commercial in which she played a TV reporter. The reports say she joined eNCA in 2017 as a general reporter and was suspended pending an eNCA disciplinary hearing, in which she was found guilty and immediately dismissed.

SABC statement on appointment

The SABC said Giokos’s appointment on the weekend edition of Fullview strengthens the broadcaster’s commitment to delivering credible and impactful journalism.

“Throughout her career, she has built a strong track record of excellence founded on credibility and a passion for telling stories that matter,”

SABC spokesperson Mmoni Ngubane, who described Giokos as an “award-winning journalist, television presenter and broadcaster with an established reputation in business, financial and current affairs reporting.”

Ngubane added that Giokos is “known for her ability to translate complex economic, business and social issues into accessible and engaging content,” and said her journalism is “characterised by a commitment to accuracy and balanced reporting which is meaningful to the audience.”

“As a presenter, interviewer and facilitator, she brings a unique combination of journalistic truth, authenticity and a confident on-air presence. Her ability to connect with audiences and the people are at the at the heart of every story and that has earned her recognition across the broadcasting industry.”

Ngubane said, “Her experience and expertise will further enhance the SABC’s mission of serving the public with trusted news and information.”

Background and qualifications

Giokos holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Journalism and an Honours Degree in Communications, which the SABC said provide a strong academic foundation to complement her professional experience.

Welcome from SABC news leadership

Deidre Uren, Group Executive for SABC News, said the broadcaster was “delighted to welcome Giokos to the SABC family.” Uren said Giokos’s “extensive experience, professionalism and commitment to impactful storytelling align strongly with our mandate of informing, educating and empowering South Africans,” and added that the SABC looks forward to the contribution she will make across its news platforms.