Joy January

Content Writer and journalist with over three years of professional experience creating engaging digital and print content for one of South Africa's leading publishing houses. Experienced in interviewing subject-matter experts, translating complex information into accessible copy, adapting tone for diverse audiences, and producing high-quality content under tight deadlines. Passionate about research, storytelling, and creating content that informs, inspires and delivers measurable impact.

Content writer and Digital storyteller at Media24 (2024-02 – Present)

• Produced engaging long-form editorial and digital content for one of South Africa's largest magazine brands.
• Interviewed celebrities, professionals, researchers and members of the public to produce compelling feature stories.
• Researched complex topics and translated them into accessible, reader-focused content.
• Wrote digital articles that balanced editorial integrity with audience engagement
• Managed multiple deadlines in a fast-paced newsroom.

Digital Journalist at Media24 (2023-01 – 2024-02)

• Wrote SEO-aware digital content for publication on a high-traffic agricultural news website.
• Created website copy and managed content through the company's CMS.
• Produced social media copy across multiple platforms.
• Uploaded and managed multimedia content.
• Conducted interviews and extensive research for online publication.

Media24 Graduate Programme at Media24 (2023-02 – 2023-12)

• Selected for Media24's competitive graduate development programme alongside early-career journalists.
• Completed an intensive programme focused on digital journalism, editorial excellence, audience engagement and professional development.
• Successfully completed a SETA-accredited writing course through a portfolio of published work.
• Participated in workshops covering learning agility, psychological safety, communication and newsroom best practices.
• Completed Media24 MyAcademy professional development courses.

Academic tutor at University of the Western Cape (2022-04 – 2022-11)

• Provided one-on-one online academic support to undergraduate students in Linguistics and Journalism, adapting teaching methods to individual learning needs.
• Delivered constructive feedback to help students improve their academic writing, critical thinking and communication skills.
• Assessed and marked assignments in accordance with university standards, ensuring accuracy and timely feedback.
• Assisted lecturers with the preparation and facilitation of online lectures and tutorials.
• Supported course administration, including assessment coordination, tutor planning and academic record management.
• Fostered a positive and inclusive online learning environment, encouraging student engagement and confidence.

Masters degree in Afrikaans and Dutch – University of the Western Cape (2026)

Honors degree in Afrikaans and Dutch – University of the Western Cape (2021)

Bachelor of Arts – University of the Western Cape (2020)

Matric Certificate – Piketberg High School (2017)