What was your first job as a journalist?
My first job as a journalist was being the Marketing and Publications House Committee Leader for my residence at the University of Pretoria. I was responsible for preparing write-ups about our residence’s outreach efforts, achievements, and generally gloating about how awesome we were to encourage matrics to apply for placement. These pieces were featured on the University of Pretoria’s residence homepage, and it was my first experience with writing for an audience and promoting something I was passionate about.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
I think so, in primary school I vaguely recall.
How is social media changing news?
Social media is revolutionising how we consume news by making it faster, more accessible, and, let’s be honest, a lot more bite-sized. Platforms like TikTok and YouTube Shorts cater to our ever-evolving (and shrinking) attention spans by delivering quick, engaging news snippets that get straight to the point. While I love a deep dive into a Daily Maverick investigation or an in-depth analysis from Judges Matter, I also appreciate how social media allows me to stay updated in between tasks, one 60-second video at a time. The balance between quality, in-depth journalism and the rapid-fire delivery of social media is fascinating—and necessary for today’s fast-paced world.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
My favourite fictional journalist is Bridget Jones from Bridget Jones's Diary. I love her because she’s real, relatable, and perfectly imperfect. Her ability to turn everyday struggles into humorous and insightful commentary is something I admire. Bridget’s charm lies in her honesty and her willingness to confront life's ups and downs, all while navigating her career, friendships, and love life. Plus, who can resist her iconic inner monologues?
What does it mean to be a journalist?
As someone who is box fresh and new to the journalism space, it still feels a bit surreal to think of myself as a journalist. But as a budding journalist, it means having a relentless curiosity, a dedication to uncovering the truth, and a responsibility to inform and engage the public on matters that shape society. It’s about navigating a world where facts and perspectives intertwine and ensuring that integrity and honesty remain at the core of every story I tell. Journalism, to me, is about giving a voice to important issues and contributing to a more informed and just society.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
Covfefe
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I prefer concise, well-thought-out pitches that get straight to the point. A pitch should clearly outline the story idea, why it’s relevant, and how it aligns with the topics I cover. I appreciate when pitches show that the sender has done their research and understands my beat. Email is my preferred method of contact, and it’s always helpful if any relevant materials or links are included upfront to make the decision process smoother.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
For legal insights, commentary, case law, and research, I rely on LexisNexis, Juta, and SAFLII to stay up-to-date and ensure accuracy. When it comes to media and design work, Canva Pro is my most trusted tool for creating visually engaging content, whether it's for articles, social media, or branding projects.When it comes to note-taking and transcribing audio excerpts, I use Otter.ai and Turbo Scribe to ensure I capture every detail efficiently.
What's your favorite social network?
My favourite social network is YouTube. I appreciate its diversity in content, which accommodates all my interests—from celebrity gossip to more hard-hitting, difficult-to-talk-about conversations, and even the exploration of conspiracy theories. YouTube offers a platform where independent channels thrive, and I trust the integrity of the research that many creators put into their content. It’s a space where topics that traditional news outlets may shy away from are openly discussed, giving it a unique appeal.
Who do you wish followed you?
Locally, I’d love to be followed by influential voices such as Azania Mosaka, Claire Mawisa, Devi Sankaree Govender, Bongani Bingwa, Sizwe Dhlomo, Masa Kekana, and Erin Bates. On the international front, I’d be thrilled if Megyn Kelly, Candace Owens, and Rita Panahi gave me a follow.
Why did you become a journalist?
I always knew my calling in life was to talk, report, and investigate. It started in school, where I made it my mission to uncover things ahead of them being announced, such as who the incoming prefects were going to be or find out whose boyfriend was being unfaithful (and with whom). My observant eye and keen ear were honed early on. As I grew older, I realised my love for uncovering the truth didn’t end with schoolyard drama—I had a real eagerness for hard-hitting news and developments, In law school, I was that person who enjoyed case law the most. There’s something fascinating about getting into the intricacies of how people think, the decisions they make, and what drives them. In a world where anyone can be anything, and where even the truth isn’t always enough to sustain the narrative, I became more and more drawn into the world of journalism. It’s based on my core values: truth-seeking, justice, and integrity—things I believe are paramount, whether in law or in telling a story.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
No.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I’m most proud of my article on Superbalist. As a reformed shopaholic and former Superbalist enthusiast, I never thought I’d go from being a regular buyer to critiquing them. This piece really demonstrated my ability to remain impartial and objective, ensuring that personal interests didn’t cloud my judgment. The positive feedback it received was encouraging and showed that my work resonated with readers. It was also fun to combine my love for online shopping with my passion for writing.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
My advice to aspiring journalists is to stay curious and never stop learning. The field is constantly evolving, so it’s important to adapt while staying true to the core values of journalism—truth, integrity, and fairness. Don’t be afraid to ask tough questions and dig deeper, even when it’s uncomfortable. Build relationships, both with sources and fellow journalists, and always be willing to receive feedback and grow from it. Lastly, find your own voice and perspective—journalism is about telling stories, and your unique take on a subject is what will set you apart.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Between 8 AM and 11 AM. That’s when I’m most alert and focused, so your pitch is guaranteed to get my full attention!
What's the best pitch you ever got?
The best pitch I ever got? Definitely my husband proposing to me! It was the most well-timed, convincing, and ultimately successful pitch I've ever received. No press release or media angle could top that!
What's your favorite drink?
aQuellé flavoured water
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
At home with my kids, watching something on Netflix or YouTube, Disney or AppleTV
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
When I’m not working on my own writing, I turn to De Rebus for the latest in legal insights and trends in South Africa's legal community. For investigative journalism, I can always rely on the Daily Maverick for its thorough reporting and sharp analysis. Judges Matter is a great resource for keeping track of judiciary accountability and transparency, especially during the annual JSC interviews. And of course, the Mail
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
A common misperception about reporting on law and governance is that it’s dry or difficult to engage with. People often assume it’s all about dense legal jargon and complicated procedures. In reality, it’s one of the most fascinating areas to cover. It’s about justice, human rights, and the real-world impact of decisions made in courts and government halls. Every case or policy tells a human story, often filled with tension, conflict, and societal change—far from boring.
