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Nobantu Cala

Nobantu Cala

Freelance Junior Journalist

Johannesburg, City of Johannesburg Metropolitan MunicipalityMember since January 10, 2023
Innovative thinking and planning abilitiesStorytelling and presentation skillsStrong networking skillsAudio and video editingFact-checking and researchAbility to work under pressure and meet deadlinesresearch and analysis of informationvisual design (Adobe InDesign, Wix, Canva, Audacity, MP3Gain)
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About

A versatile journalist and writer with a Bachelor's Degree in Communication Studies and a proven track record across investigative reporting, broadcast news, and feature writing. Experienced in researching and breaking stories under tight deadlines, conducting interviews with sources ranging from public figures to everyday people, and producing accurate, well-sourced articles for both print and digital audiences. Seeking a role as a Writer or Journalist where sharp research, rigorous fact-checking, and clear, compelling storytelling can help a newsroom or publication reach and engage its readers.

Experience

Freelance Junior Journalist - The South African

(2026-02 - 2026-09)

  • Reported on a wide range of beats including politics, crime, and celebrity news.
  • Independently researched, edited, and self-published articles.
  • Applied rigorous fact-checking and source verification, reflecting a high level of precision, accountability, and attention to detail.
  • Responded swiftly to breaking news while maintaining accuracy under pressure.
  • Collaborated with editorial teams, contributing to story development and newsroom strategy.
  • Worked closely with editorial teams to shape compelling stories and enhance newsroom strategy.
  • Pitched ideas and evaluated audience trends to increase engagement on articles, and identified emerging news angles.
  • Tracked audience engagement and feedback to refine storytelling techniques and improve reach.
  • Identified emerging trends, cultural topics, and digital opportunities to produce relevant, timely, and impactful stories.
  • Continuously enhanced digital skills, including SEO, social media strategy, and data journalism.

Multimedia Intern Journalist - Independent Media (IOL)

(2025-02 - 2026-02)

Journalism, Content Producer, graphic design

  • Researched, investigated, and produced in-depth news articles and analytical features on national news.
  • Published articles on politics, socio-economic issues, and financial news.
  • Conducted interviews with a wide range of sources, from high-profile figures to everyday individuals, eliciting insightful and newsworthy information.
  • Managed and produced daily content for the Business Report and Personal Finance pages on social media platforms, focusing on financial education, market news, investment tips, and personal budgeting strategies.
  • Monitored real-time developments in political and economic landscapes, identifying emerging trends and translating complex topics into accessible and engaging content for a diverse readership.
  • Created multimedia content, including text, infographics, and short-form videos, for publication across social media platforms, increasing reader engagement and digital reach.
  • Delivered accurate and timely news under tight deadlines and ensured all content adhered to ethical journalism standards, fact-checking protocols, and media law guidelines.
  • Crafted high-quality written content for social media posts and collaborated with the communications team to ensure tone, language, and message alignment.
  • Transformed rough ideas, interviews, or transcripts into refined, engaging content.
  • Wrote clear, balanced, and engaging articles for both print and digital formats, ensuring journalistic integrity and compliance with editorial and legal standards.

Social Media & Event Coverage — Glamour Magazine Wellness Event - Glamour Magazine

(2025-11 - 2025-11)

  • Created and covered social media content for Glamour Magazine, focusing on beauty, wellness, and lifestyle.
  • Provided live social media coverage for the Glamour Wellness Event, including real-time posting and audience engagement.
  • Posted event activations across social media platforms to increase visibility and interaction.
  • Conducted on-site interviews with brand partners including Nivea, Motherkind, Nestlé, Iwisa, and Be Beautiful.
  • Assisted with branded content creation and ensured alignment with Glamour's tone and visual identity.
  • Collaborated with editorial and marketing teams to support event promotion and post-event content.

Broadcast Journalist Intern - Newskoop

(2023-03 - 2025-01)

  • Conducted thorough research and gathered accurate information to produce high-quality news content.
  • Compiled time-sensitive news bulletins and monitored breaking news, updating bulletins under tight deadlines.
  • Adapted rapidly to breaking news situations, delivering timely and accurate reports under pressure.
  • Utilised strong observational skills and critical thinking to identify key angles and narratives.
  • Recorded, scripted, and edited audio news reports for radio.
  • Maintained a high level of proficiency in digital news-gathering tools and techniques.
  • Wrote engaging, objective, and informative news stories that meet editorial standards.
  • Produced content for radio and rewrote press releases into radio news format.
  • Produced high-quality local, international, and national stories for radio stations.
  • Edited audio and rewrote press releases to ensure clarity, concision, and newsworthiness.
  • Collaborated with editors to create engaging content, developing teamwork and communication skills.
  • Developed a strong work ethic and drive to produce high-quality news, demonstrating motivation and dedication to journalism.

Communication Officer (Volunteer) - Advocacy for Inclusive Development

(2024-12 - 2024-12)

  • Led the company's strategic communication channels, ensuring voices from the margins were heard through powerful storytelling, social media campaigns, and community engagement.
  • Designed promotional materials, press releases, and media campaigns to ensure consistent and effective messaging.
  • Maintained consistency in visual and written communication across all channels.
  • Developed communication materials for events, including invitations, programmes, speeches, and post-event reports.
  • Managed event publicity through media outreach and social media promotion.
  • Planned, created, and scheduled engaging content across platforms (e.g., Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook).
  • Monitored analytics to assess social media performance and implemented strategies to boost reach and engagement.
  • Drafted and customised formal letters, emails, and proposals for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Coordinated stakeholder briefings and provided communication support during key events or campaigns.

Content Producer, Communications Department (Volunteer) - GoAllOut Non-Profit Organisation

(2021-11 - 2022-11)

  • Developed engaging and compelling content that reflects the organisation's mission and resonates with the target audience.
  • Designed and distributed newsletters and posters highlighting current events, updates, and achievements within the organisation.
  • Assisted in fundraising efforts through social media and event promotion.
  • Created content to support specific campaigns, events, or fundraising initiatives.
  • Promoted upcoming events, fundraisers, and activities through various social media channels.
  • Explored opportunities to collaborate with influencers or ambassadors who align with the organisation's mission.
  • Maintained a consistent posting schedule to keep followers informed and engaged.

Supplemental Instruction Leader–Tutor - North-West University

(2021-03 - 2021-11)

  • Developed and delivered engaging, interactive online lessons and course materials in various modules.
  • Facilitated online discussions, assignments, and assessments to ensure student comprehension and engagement.
  • Provided timely feedback and support to students to foster their learning and academic success.
  • Provided constructive criticism and encouraged critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Monitored the academic progress of students by assessing their performance.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Communication - North-West University

National Senior Certificate - Setlopo Secondary School (2018)

Skills

Freelance Junior Journalist

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