The series, produced by HOT 1027 News Head Tara Penny, was previously announced as a Top 10 global finalist at the awards ceremony in Lausanne, Switzerland. Organisers have now confirmed that The Annapurna Ascent achieved the number one continental ranking for Africa in the audio category.
The official certificate recognises Tara Penny and The Annapurna Ascent as Africa’s top-ranked audio entry in the continental rankings announced in Switzerland in April 2026.
The recognition marks another milestone for HOT 102.7FM on the global stage, further cementing the station’s reputation for creating compelling, award-winning content that resonates far beyond South Africa’s borders.
For Warren Eva and John Black, the award is also deeply personal. Their climb pushed them to physical and emotional extremes as they battled brutal weather, exhaustion, and the ever-present danger Annapurna is known for.
But beyond the mountain itself, The Annapurna Ascent became a story about resilience, preparation, friendship, and the spirit of adventure — themes that resonated strongly with listeners throughout South Africa and beyond.
