What was your first job as a journalist?
Writing for my school newsletter.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
I have! My grandfather used to write his books on a typewriter, and I received it when he passed away.
How is social media changing news?
Social media is making news more accessible to a younger audience. However, it runs the risk of commodifying news into 'bite-sized' pieces.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Mikael Blomkvist. He is steeped in all of the good journalistic qualities. He hold people accountable, respects autonomy, and seeks justice.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
To be a journalist means to be committed to making the voices of citizens heard and accessible.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
Entenmann's using for an advertisement on the same day that a major person in a criminal case was found to be innocent.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I prefer to be pitched by email.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Google Workspace, CMS, WordPress and Substack.
What's your favorite social network?
LinkedIn. I like the sense of community for working professionals.
Who do you wish followed you?
Ira Glass.
Why did you become a journalist?
I became a journalist because I think that people want to make sense of the world around them. Writing is the way that I can do that.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Yes, I did. I was the chairperson of my high school newspaper and I was responsible for pitching and editing stories.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I am most proud of interviewing Zackie Achmat, a political candidate in the South African elections.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Value your own voice. It is appreciated when a young journalist is recognisable in their style, tone and syntax.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Early morning ( between 6 am and 9 am SAST).
What's the best pitch you ever got?
An opinion piece on the culture of language at English-speaking schools in Cape Town.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
I don't have a specific one, but any pitch that is just rooted in personal vendetta and will not actually make a positive difference.
What's your favorite drink?
I am a huge fan of matcha, preferably iced.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Reading a book, or watching a thriller mini-series.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
I really enjoy reading GroundUp. It is accesible and local.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
The most common misperception is that trans issues are reported on by biased, emotional reporters.
