Deep South Report’s Celestine Lourens named WOSA technology finalist

Celestine Lourens, founder of the Deep South Report, has been nominated in the Technology category of the 2026 Woman of Stature Awards (WOSA) for her work connecting residents across Cape Town’s southern suburbs.

Ms Lourens, who lives in Glencairn Heights, started the Deep South Report in February 2019.

Over almost seven years, the community-driven WhatsApp group, Facebook page, and mobile channel - run entirely voluntarily - has grown into a trusted resource for more than 17 000 residents.

“Deep South Report was born from a place of complete loss - no income, no guidance, no safety net. Just our little family and our faith,” she said.

“I didn’t set out to build a network. I simply wished there was something, anything, that could offer guidance without judgment, consistency without condition, and care without asking anything in return. So I built it.”

According to Ms Lourens, what began as a way to keep neighbours informed has become a real-time news and engagement platform.

The group delivers updates on accidents, fires, community initiatives, water and electricity outages, roadworks, and City notices.

Every Wednesday, she publishes a local business and events booklet to keep residents informed about markets, fundraisers, and educational opportunities, supporting the local economy and fostering community engagement.

Authorities and local services often rely on the group to share urgent messages from CPFs, councillors, fire and rescue teams, police, traffic, and disaster management services.

In 2025, the Deep South Report even helped Air Mercy Pilots locate a missing hiker.

Beyond alerts, the group shares wildlife photography - from caracal sightings and proteas in Silvermine to whales and dolphins - as well as environmental education.

They also provide a Marine ID kit, cataloguing more than 45 marine species and phenomena unique to the Peninsula, which is now used by local institutions.

Ms Lourens curates, verifies, and distributes information while also assisting residents who struggle to log service requests for issues such as burst pipes, stolen water meters, and power outages.

“Residents felt seen, heard, and supported. Authorities found a reliable channel to reach thousands instantly,” she said.

The WOSA nomination recognises Ms Lourens’ innovative approach to technology and community.

“I felt humbled because this recognition reflects the collective effort of our community,” she said.

“It also shows how technology can be harnessed for meaningful, local impact.”

Out of more than 1,100 nominations, 110 South African nominees have made it to the adjudication round. They will be formally introduced during WOSA’s official announcement on Thursday, December 4.

Founded in 2013, the Woman of Stature Awards has become one of South Africa’s most respected platforms for celebrating the achievements of women who excel in personal, professional, and community roles.

The event recognises resilience, leadership, and impact, fostering inspiration and opportunity for women across industries. Its sister organisation, the Woman of Stature Foundation, ensures that recognition translates into tangible empowerment through mentorship, training, and networking.

Ms Lourens hopes the Deep South Report continues to strengthen community identity and resilience.

“By sharing stories, highlighting local initiatives, and providing clear information, we help residents feel more connected and informed,” she said.

“Ultimately, I want our work to inspire collaboration, foster trust, and show how technology can serve people, not just as a tool, but as a bridge between individuals and their community.”

Since its inception, the Deep South Report has inspired similar initiatives in neighbouring communities.

Ms Lourens said that “even from nothing, something deeply meaningful can rise, when people choose to show up for each other without expectation.”

At its heart, she says, “sharing is caring. Whether it’s information, support, safety, or kindness - DSR exists to remind us that when we give freely, we build something no crisis can take away.”