South Carolina ETV and Public Radio programs win three Telly Awards

(Photo Courtesy of SCETV)

South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) programs have been honored with three Telly Awards. The Telly Awards honors excellence in video and television across all screens and is judged by leaders from video platforms, television, streaming networks and production companies.

The SCETV and PBS Digital Studio digital series Citizen Better episode “Can Social Media Activism Actually Work?” earned a Silver Telly Award in the General-Explainer category. This category highlights branded content that simplifies complex concepts through engaging visuals. The segment examines the potential of digital activism as a means of civic engagement.

Citizen Better is an eight-part series that challenges conventional ideas about democracy by spotlighting the offbeat, modern ways that young people redefine civic participation beyond the voting booth. Hosted by Charleston-based community organizer KJ Kearney, the series delves into civic life in the digital era and is currently available to watch online.

Kearney, known for his viral TikTok content and James Beard Award-nominated initiative Black Food Fridays, brings firsthand experience as a community leader to his role as host. He guides viewers through stories of civic engagement rooted in creativity, cultural identity and grassroots efforts.

In addition, the Steep Canyon Rangers live concert special received two Bronze Telly Awards. The program, which marked the culmination of SC Public Radio’s 50th anniversary celebration, earned awards in the Series-Entertainment and Series-Events and Experiences categories. The concert was held on Sept. 1 at Anne Springs Close Greenway’s Comporium Amphitheater in Fort Mill and featured the Grammy award-winning Steep Canyon Rangers alongside special guest The Briarhoppers. The outdoor concert was recorded as a radio and television special and celebrated SC Public Radio’s five decades of community service, programming and statewide engagement.

“We are honored SCETV programs have been recognized by the Telly Awards for work that reflects our commitment to enriching lives through knowledge, insight and inspiration through compelling storytelling and digital innovation," said SCETV President and CEO Adrienne Fairwell. "From Citizen Better’s fresh perspective on civic engagement to the vibrant celebration of SC Public Radio’s 50-year legacy, these projects showcase media’s power to connect with audiences in meaningful and lasting ways.”

With over 13,000 entries from around the world, the 46th Annual Telly Awards honors outstanding video content across television and digital platforms. Winners are selected by The Telly Awards Judging Council, composed of experts from leading production companies, networks and digital studios including Roku, Patreon, BBDO New York and Pluto TV.

A full list of winners is available on The Telly Awards website.