Bernell Simons

Dynamic journalist, editor, writer and communications professional with expertise in hard news reporting, politics, script writing, editing, translation and investigative journalism. Passionate about truth, accountability and community empowerment through credible and impactful storytelling in English and Afrikaans.

Editor | Script Writer | Translator | Investigative Journalist - The Journal News Network

(2024-06)

• Script writing, editing and translation of news content.
• Investigating and reporting hard news, with a strong focus on politics.
• Conducting interviews with officials, community leaders and stakeholders.
• Compiling proper and relevant interview questions for junior journalists.
• Mentoring and guiding junior reporters to develop strong news angles.
• Ensuring accuracy, balance and credibility in all published content.

Journalist - The Gauteng Times

(2023-12 - 2024-07)

• Reporting on political developments, government and community issues.
• Writing hard news with accuracy, depth and fairness.
• Conducting interviews and gathering information from credible sources.
• Contributing to investigations and breaking news coverage.
• Building factual, engaging and impactful news content.

Founder | Translator | Editor | Writer - Die Stad Stem

(2023-12 - 2024-07)

Established and developed Die Stad Stem news platform.

• Script writing, editing and translation (English to Afrikaans and vice versa).
• Investigative reporting and political coverage.
• Conducting interviews and community engagement.
• Compiling interview questions and guiding junior journalists.
• Overseeing content quality, layout and publication standards.

Freelance Journalist - The Volksblad

(2014 - 2016)

• Covered community news, interviews and feature stories.
• Conducted research and prepared articles for publication.

Junior Journalist Intern - The Volksblad

(2014 - 2016)

Grade 4 Life Skills & Sciences Educator - Goede Hoop Primary School

(2016 - 2016)

Post Level 1 Grade 1 Educator

Postgraduate Certificate in Education - Foundation Phase & Early Childhood Development - UNISA (2019 - 2019)

Bachelor of Arts - Media Studies, Journalism & Communication - University of the Free State (2016 - 2016)

National Senior Certificate - Bloemfontein High School (2010 - 2010)