Thembi Siaga
(He)
As seen in:
MSN South Africa,
News24,
News24 Business,
AllAfrica,
Eyewitness News,
Bizcommunity,
Zawya,
The Lead (Podcast),
Daily Maverick,
Mail & Guardian
and
Covers:
I cover human-interest stories, investigative reporting, health, crime, education, social justice, arts and entertainment, and other underreported issues affecting communities across South Africa.
Interview
What was your first job as a journalist?
Video intern
Have you ever used a typewriter?
No
How is social media changing news?
"Social media is reshaping the news landscape by democratizing access to information and promoting engagement. However, it also presents challenges in terms of credibility and information overload. What saddens me is that social media has diminished revenue streams needed to sustain journalism, especially in poor countries like South Africa.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
No one
What does it mean to be a journalist?
To serve as a communicator of news and information to the public. Journalists gather, analyze, and present information through various mediums such as newspapers, magazines, television, radio, and online platforms. They adhere to ethical standards, strive for accuracy and fairness, and play a crucial role in informing the public about current events, issues, and stories that impact society. Being a journalist requires curiosity, integrity, critical thinking skills, and a commitment to keeping the public informed and empowered.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Stories which make impact
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Camera, note book, car, Microsoft word, Google chrome
What's your favorite social network?
Facebook and Twitter
Why did you become a journalist?
1. **Passion for storytelling**: I have a strong desire to share the stories and experiences of the community with a wider audience, believing the rural perspective adds valuable insights.2. **Desire for social change**: I aim to use journalism as a tool to shed light on issues affecting rural communities, advocate for change, and improve living conditions.3. **Curiosity and thirst for knowledge**: Growing up in a rural environment sparked a curiosity about the world beyond the village, driving me to pursue journalism as a means to explore and understand diverse perspectives and cultures.4. **Advocacy for marginalized voices**: I felt that rural voices are often overlooked or misrepresented in mainstream media and want to ensure that the community's perspectives are accurately represented.5. **Opportunity for personal growth**: Journalism offers opportunities for personal and professional growth, including developing communication skills, critical thinking abilities, and a deeper understanding of societal issues.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
For aspiring journalists in a challenging landscape where traditional revenue models are being disrupted by tech giants like Google and Facebook, here are some pieces of advice:1. **Diversify your skills**: Explore different aspects of journalism beyond traditional print media, such as digital storytelling, multimedia journalism, data journalism, and podcasting. Developing a diverse skill set can make you more adaptable and marketable in the evolving media landscape.2. **Embrace digital platforms**: While traditional media outlets are facing financial struggles, digital platforms offer new opportunities for journalism. Build a strong online presence by creating content for social media, blogging, or starting your own website. Utilize digital tools and platforms to reach a wider audience and showcase your work.3. **Focus on niche topics or audiences**: Instead of trying to compete with large media organizations, consider specializing in niche topics or serving specific audiences. This could involve covering local news, focusing on underreported issues, or catering to a particular demographic or interest group.4. **Monetize your skills**: Explore alternative revenue streams for your journalism work, such as freelance writing, consulting, teaching, or speaking engagements. Consider crowdfunding platforms, memberships, or subscription models to directly monetize your content and build a loyal audience.5. **Stay informed and adaptable**: Keep abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and changes in the media industry. Be open to learning new skills, experimenting with different formats, and adapting to evolving audience preferences and consumption habits.6. **Network and collaborate**: Build relationships with fellow journalists, editors, and media professionals both online and offline. Collaborate on projects, join journalism associations or networks, attend industry events, and seek mentorship opportunities. Networking can lead to new opportunities, partnerships, and collaborations.7. **Maintain journalistic integrity**: In an era of misinformation and clickbait, uphold ethical standards and prioritize accuracy, fairness, and objectivity in your reporting. Building trust with your audience is essential for long-term success as a journalist.Despite the challenges, journalism remains a vital profession that plays a crucial role in informing, educating, and holding power to account in society. By adapting to the changing landscape and embracing new opportunities, aspiring journalists can still pursue their passion and make a meaningful impact through their work.
When's the best time to pitch you?
In the morning
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Phone
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
Daily Maverick and Reuters
Would you like to take the Muck Rack Interview?
Create a Muck Rack profile.