What was your first job as a journalist?
When I edited and translated news bulletins into South African vernacular languages, that meant we were reaching more people.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes, my sister's typewriter back in the '90s. I wasn't allowed to use it so writing has been a thrilling ride for a while for me.
How is social media changing news?
The way in which people get their news as well as how it's disseminated. It's now a universal power and responsibility.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
It means bearing the responsibility to tell factual, relevant, and engaging stories.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
It depends on which job I'm doing at that particular hour. When it's fictional, Final Draft is my guy. If it's news, Grammarly should do it.
What's your favorite social network?
If you're trying to get things done, LinkedIn and Twitter are the go-to's but TikTok is great too.
Why did you become a journalist?
Because I watched my father and uncle work for the pursuit of truth and justice in law and journalism and their dedication touched me.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
I didn't. Free4All was given to us for free but it definitely fueled the flame that inspired my love for journalism.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Our greatest limitations are in your mind. You need to open your mind, you cannot be stuck to what your idea of journalism used to be.
When's the best time to pitch you?
During the day, midday to be specific. That's when I've cleared the craziness, found my groove and I am more receptive.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
It was for an insane amount of work that amounted to $0.001 per word. Let's respect people's time and craft.
What's your favorite drink?
Coffee, first thing in the morning. It's vital.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Over a writing pad with a pen or with my nose in a novel, that's if there isn't a great horror movie to watch.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
That we just write for clicks and that we do not care about actually engaging our readers.
