Missing in Southern Africa (MISA) founders, Wendy Pascoe and Head of Communications Priya Ranchod have received top honours at the Industry Recognition Awards 2026, recognising their contributions to advocacy, communications and community awareness.
The two received their awards during a ceremony held at Idlewild Country Estate in Irene, Pretoria, on Saturday, 31 October. Pascoe was named the winner in the Activist category for her work in advocacy, private investigations and supporting families searching for missing loved ones. Ranchod took home the award in the Storytelling and Media Communication category for using communication and storytelling to raise awareness and bring important issues to public attention.
Speaking during her acceptance speech, Pascoe reflected on her more than 14 years of experience as a private investigator and the responsibility of supporting families facing the uncertainty of having a loved one go missing. She emphasised that activism goes beyond holding a title, saying it involves speaking out, asking difficult questions and standing up for what is right, even when the work becomes challenging.
“Every missing person is someone’s child, mother, father, brother, sister or loved one,” Pascoe said. She dedicated her recognition to families who continue searching for missing relatives, those whose cases remain unresolved and individuals working towards justice and human dignity. Ranchod said the award was meaningful but stressed that her work has always been centred on people rather than recognition. “For her, it has always been about people and the stories that deserve to be heard,” MISA said in its statement.
She highlighted the role communication plays in bringing people together, creating understanding and offering hope to those facing difficult circumstances.Through her work with MISA, Ranchod said she had experienced both the heartbreak of families searching for missing loved ones and the joy that comes with successful reunions. The awards ceremony, organised by Karen and Deon Lensing, recognised individuals across various industries and backgrounds.
In addition to their wins, Pascoe received certificates of appreciation for nominations in the Activist, Athlete, Philanthropist and Most Influential Individual categories. Ranchod was also recognised through nominations in the Humanitarian and Storytelling and Media Communication categories. Despite the recognition, the organisation said its focus remains on supporting families, raising awareness about missing persons and keeping unresolved cases in the public eye. MISA reiterated its commitment to ensuring that missing persons are not forgotten and that families continue receiving support in their search for answers.
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