Dancing the Death Drill – A Review

Two standing ovations! Yes, and the first one was before the show even ended. In fact, I suspect the audience wanted to give a couple more throughout the show. That was how the audience received Dancing the Death Drill, a stage adaptation of Fred Khumalo’s award winning novel. I knew I could not miss it because my favourite musical talents, Msaki, composed the music for this majestical piece of work.

The stage set for ‘Dancing the Death Drill,’ featuring elements that depict the tragic story of the SS Mendi and its fallen soldiers.

Directed by the legendary James Ngcobo, we were transported to 1958, World War One, through a blend of music, dance and drama. It was a history lesson as the story SS Mendi, the ship that sank and killing over 600 black South African soldiers and crew members in February 1917 was not known to me. It reminded me that there is so much of our history we are still to learn, forgotten and shelved.

A vibrant scene from ‘Dancing the Death Drill,’ showcasing the cast in an impactful performance that blends music, dance, and drama.

This stage production weaved in the complexities of the time, the plight of the black man and the identity issues of children birthed from a black mother and white father. There was a lot of humour, some dark. There was romance and there was tragedy. The music, the dance, the dialogue – seamlessly telling the story magnificently. I was trying to figure out, what stood out the most in the three disciplines, and honestly, I feel they all complimented each other.

A dramatic scene from ‘Dancing the Death Drill,’ showcasing the cast’s portrayal of historical events and emotional narratives.

Clint Brink, who plays the main character of Pitso Motaung, was such a beautiful surprise. His transition from the interrogation room to how he would tell his story at different times of the journey, just by using his body, was amazing. And I had forgotten that Clint can sing, what a beautiful reminder. He owned that character and did it so much justice. One slowly understood the burden of being a survivor of that tragic collision of the ship meant. I became clear with each scene, why he was portrayed as someone who wanted to bury the past, like a part of him also sank to the depths of the sea on that fateful day.

This was an unforgettable theatrical experience. A reminder that there are still so many stories to be told and so many different ways to deliver those stories.

Head out to the Joburg Theatre for a phenomenal moment in theatre with a majestic cast, from 09 – 28 September 2025.

When Old Laptops Spill Memories: A Journey Through Forgotten Files

My daughter found one of my old laptops and asked me to switch it on, hoping to download games. I reluctantly indulged her, but what was meant to be a teachable moment of the obsolescence of technology turned into a walk down memory lane for me. This laptop holds most of my pictures and written content from my Honours year up until a few years after I left journalism. I was blown away by the girl I saw; bold, creative, and excited about life. Not just in her pictures, but in the stories she told. I used to tell interesting stories: feature articles about new brides, Black Love, the arts, successful women in business (I giggle now at the fact that this feature was called “Woman on Top”), rising stars, and even articles about celebrity homes and how they were styled.

Once I left the magazine world, I didn’t stop. I started a blog and wrote whatever my heart wanted to share with the world. I wasn’t worried about views or comments. I didn’t care about stats, demographics, or whether the thought had already been shared. Oh, what fun!

This experience sparked a thought: what happened to that young woman who would just write? I love writing! Hence, we are here, on this blog. Did corporate ambition and other adulting factors drain the capacity for free flow writing out of me? I still write every day, for work, for clients, for my PhD. But that is such technical, prescriptive content. Interestingly, a few weeks back, I attended a writing workshop that sparked my journaling to improve. So, for the past couple of weeks, I have been free flow journaling my feelings and thoughts, which will never make it to the internet, lol.

Another thought hit me: did the writing stop because we were told that people no longer read long-form content and prefer vlogs? I believe there is an audience for everyone. When I was in high school, I organised an HIV/AIDS awareness assembly, motivated by the idea that even if one person was educated, that was enough for me. My point is, I’d love to remember that girl who did things because she loved them. Not for aesthetics, platform stats, etc., but because she felt it would be interesting to at least one person, even if that one person is herself a few years later, needing to remember that she is bold, fun, creative, and phenomenal.

In conclusion, in a world that is overly curated, I hope you look back at a moment in time when you did something you liked, and it reminds you that we only have one life. Live, baby!

Harnessing AI: Transforming Communication Roles in the Modern Era

Unveiling the Potential of Artificial Intelligence in Everyday Communication Strategies

I recently had an interesting conversation with a fellow communication professional, and she highlighted her concerns about artificial intelligence (AI). I share her concerns, especially about our roles as communicators. And, since there is an uptake of AI, it is also our responsibility to learn and understand these tools.

In the ever-evolving landscape of communication, AI is emerging as an indispensable tool for professionals seeking to amplify their impact. From streamlining workflows to enriching engagement, communicators are leveraging AI to transform their day-to-day roles and redefine the art of connection. This blog explores the multifaceted ways in which AI can empower communicators, helping them stay ahead in a rapidly changing world.

1. Enhanced Content Creation and Personalization

One of the most notable applications of AI in communication is its ability to craft and personalise content at scale. Communicators can use AI-powered tools to generate high-quality articles, social media posts, and marketing copy, tailored to specific audiences. By analysing data and audience preferences, AI can recommend tones, formats, and topics that resonate deeply with targeted demographics.

Furthermore, AI enables dynamic personalisation. Whether through email campaigns or chatbot interactions, communicators can deliver bespoke messages that adapt in real-time to the audience’s needs, creating stronger connections and driving engagement.

2. Data Analysis and Audience Insights

Understanding an audience is key to effective communication, and AI makes this easier than ever. By analysing vast quantities of data—ranging from social media activity to market trends—AI can uncover valuable insights about audience behaviours, preferences, and sentiments.

Communicators can use AI-driven analytics to monitor the success of their campaigns, determine what resonates most, and identify areas for improvement. Tools like sentiment analysis can gauge public opinion on a brand or topic, providing actionable feedback that informs future strategies.

3. Streamlined Workflow Automation

In the fast-paced realm of communication, efficiency is critical. AI excels at automating repetitive tasks, freeing professionals to focus on creative and strategic initiatives. For instance, AI can schedule social media posts, curate relevant content, and even respond automatically to routine inquiries.

Tools like Grammarly assist in proofreading and editing, ensuring error-free communication. Advanced AI systems can even summarise lengthy documents or meeting minutes into key points, saving valuable time.

4. Chatbots and Conversational AI

AI-driven chatbots and conversational agents are transforming the way brands interact with their audience. Communicators can deploy chatbots to handle customer service inquiries, provide instant feedback, and engage users across diverse platforms. These tools not only enhance accessibility but also maintain a consistent brand voice.

Conversational AI continues to become more sophisticated, enabling bots to understand context, infer emotions, and provide human-like interactions. For communicators, this means greater opportunities to connect with audiences seamlessly, at scale.

5. Crisis Management and Real-Time Decision Making

In moments of crisis, timely and effective communication can make all the difference. AI equips communicators with the tools to react quickly and appropriately. Real-time monitoring tools powered by AI can detect emerging issues or negative sentiments across various platforms, allowing communicators to address concerns proactively.

Additionally, predictive analytics can help anticipate potential crises before they unfold, providing data-driven recommendations to mitigate risks. As a result, communicators can maintain trust and credibility even in challenging situations.

6. Elevating Visual Communication

Visual content is a cornerstone of modern communication, and AI has revolutionised its creation. From designing graphics to editing videos, AI tools simplify the process of producing professional-grade visuals. Communicators can use AI to generate infographics, animations, and branded templates, ensuring consistency and aesthetic appeal.

Moreover, AI-driven platforms can analyse the impact of visual content, advising communicators on optimal design choices that resonate with their target audience.

7. Insights into Future Trends

The predictive capabilities of AI extend beyond crisis management to broader future trends. Communicators can leverage these insights to craft forward-thinking strategies that align with emerging cultural, technological, or market shifts. AI tools can forecast changes in consumer behaviour or identify rising topics of interest before they dominate discussions.

By staying ahead of the curve, communicators can position themselves as thought leaders and maintain relevance in competitive industries.

8. Ethical Considerations and Responsible Use

While AI offers immense opportunities, communicators must remain mindful of its ethical implications. Transparency is key—audiences should know when AI-generated content is being used. Additionally, AI systems must be programmed to avoid bias and respect privacy.

Communicators should foster a balance between automation and human touch, ensuring that their use of AI enhances, rather than replaces, genuine connection.

In closing: A Future Redefined by AI

The integration of AI into communication roles is no longer a futuristic concept; it is a reality reshaping the profession. By embracing AI’s capabilities, communicators can work smarter, connect deeper, and adapt faster to the demands of their field. However, the true power lies in using AI as a tool for augmentation, not substitution.

As AI continues to evolve, its potential to transform communication is boundless. For professionals, the key is to approach AI with curiosity, creativity, and a commitment to ethical practice. In doing so, they can unlock the future of communication—one enriched by innovation and driven by purpose.

Public Relations Re-imagined

As we continue to navigate the digital era, the landscape of public relations (PR) is undergoing a significant transformation. Traditional PR methods, which once relied heavily on press releases and media coverage, are being re-imagined and adapting to the evolving needs of businesses and their audiences. In this post, I explore the innovative approaches that are reshaping the PR industry and how they are driving more effective communication and engagement.

The Shift to Digital

Due to the decline in traditional media as we know it, as newsrooms shrink, traditional titles turn to digital media or close all together and the growth of social media engagement and digital platforms – PR professionals are forced to revolutionise how they connect with their target audience. No longer confined to traditional media outlets, PR now encompasses a wide range of online channels, including social media, blogs, podcasts, and influencer collaborations. This shift has enabled brands to reach a broader audience and engage with them in real-time, fostering a more dynamic and interactive relationship.

Data-Driven Strategies

One of the most significant changes in PR is the integration of data-driven strategies. By leveraging analytics and insights, PR professionals can better understand their audience’s preferences, behaviours, and needs. This data-driven approach allows for more targeted and personalised communication, ensuring that messages resonate with the intended audience. Additionally, it enables PR teams to measure the effectiveness of their campaigns and make data-informed decisions to optimise their strategies. Furthermore, PR professionals can get better insight on how their competitors are performing. Data-Driven strategies give PR professionals the competitive edge where they can set clear and measurable goals.

Storytelling and Authenticity

In the re-imagined world of PR, storytelling has become a powerful tool for building brand identity and connecting with audiences on a deeper level. Authenticity is key; consumers are increasingly seeking genuine and relatable content. Brands that can tell compelling stories and showcase their values and mission are more likely to build trust and loyalty among their audience. This shift towards authentic storytelling has led to more meaningful and impactful PR campaigns. The storytelling and authenticity element of a re-imagined world of PR also requires that PR professionals to not only be led by volume but impact.

Crisis Management in the Digital Age

The digital age has also transformed crisis management in PR. With the speed at which information spreads online, PR professionals must be prepared to respond quickly and effectively to any potential crises. This requires a proactive approach, including monitoring online conversations, addressing concerns promptly, and maintaining transparency. Effective crisis management can help mitigate damage to a brand’s reputation and maintain public trust.

The Role of Influencers

Influencer marketing has become an integral part of modern PR strategies. Collaborating with influencers who align with a brand’s values and target audience can amplify messages and increase reach. Influencers bring authenticity and credibility to PR campaigns, as their followers trust their recommendations and opinions. This partnership can lead to more engaging and successful PR efforts.

Conclusion

Public relations is no longer confined to traditional methods; it has evolved to embrace digital innovation, data-driven strategies, authentic storytelling, and influencer collaborations. As the PR industry continues to re-imagine itself, brands must adapt to these changes to effectively communicate and engage with their audiences. By staying ahead of the curve and embracing these innovative approaches, PR professionals can drive meaningful and impactful results in the ever-changing digital landscape.

The Impact of Digital Media on Strategic Communication

Introduction

In today’s fast-paced digital world, the communication landscape has undergone a significant transformation. Digital media has become an integral part of strategic communication, enabling organisations to connect with their target market in more dynamic and interactive ways. In this blog post, I explore the evolution of digital media, its key components, benefits, and challenges.

The Evolution of Digital Media

Digital media has come a long way from its early days of simple websites and email newsletters. The rise of social media platforms, content marketing, and advanced analytics has revolutionised how organisations communicate. Traditional forms of communication, such as print and broadcast media, have been supplemented and, in many cases, replaced by digital channels that offer real-time engagement and measurable results.

Key Components of Digital Media in Strategic Communication

Social Media: Platforms like Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok have become essential tools for strategic communication. They allow organisations to engage with their audiences, share content, and build brand awareness.
Content Marketing: Creating valuable and relevant content is crucial for engaging and informing audiences. Blogs, videos, infographics, and podcasts are just a few examples of content that can be used to communicate effectively.
Email Marketing: Email campaigns remain a powerful tool for reaching targeted audiences. Personalised and segmented emails can drive engagement and conversions.
SEO and SEM: Search engine optimisation (SEO) and search engine marketing (SEM) are vital for enhancing visibility and reach. By optimising content for search engines, organisations can attract more visitors and improve their online presence.

Benefits of Digital Media in Strategic Communication

Real-Time Engagement: Digital media allows organisations to interact with their audiences in real-time, responding to feedback and addressing concerns promptly.
Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to traditional communication methods, digital media offers cost-effective solutions for reaching a wide audience. Although it is important to note that this may no longer be a benefit as the platforms have slowly, over the years, required a pay-to-play for optimum results.
Measurable Results: Advanced analytics and tracking tools enable organisations to measure the effectiveness of their communication strategies and make data-driven decisions.

Challenges and Considerations

While digital media offers numerous benefits, it also presents challenges that organisations must navigate:

Information Overload: The vast amount of information available online can be overwhelming. Organisations are under pressure to find ways to stand out and capture their audience’s attention.
Data Security: Protecting sensitive information and maintaining privacy is crucial in the digital age. Organisations must implement robust security measures to safeguard data.
Maintaining Authenticity: Genuine and transparent communication is essential for building trust with audiences. Organisations must avoid misleading or deceptive practices.

Conclusion

Digital media has undeniably transformed the field of strategic communication. By embracing social media, content marketing, email campaigns, and SEO/SEM, organisations can connect with their audiences in meaningful ways. However, they must also navigate challenges such as information overload, privacy concerns, and maintaining authenticity. As digital media evolves, organisations must stay adaptable and innovative to leverage their full potential.

Your Silence Is Not The Solution

As a communicator by profession, I will be the first to admit that too much information is flying around. It comes in multi-formats: written, video, audio, long-form and, short-form. We are inundated with information. And honestly, it can be tempting to want to keep quiet because surely there are people already sharing what you are thinking. But I disagree. Your voice, and your thoughts are needed now more than ever.

Why am I advocating for this? When I was young, I remember watching a movie called “10 Things I Hate About You” and in a scene in the classroom there was a huge poster written, “What is right is not always popular and what is popular is not always right”. I think about this quote now more than ever. Some of the information that “trends” on all platforms – is questionable. And some of the “thought leaders” that these trends have created are as questionable. We see it as well in the workplace, the loudest person could be so wrong but because they are playing to the visibility politics – ultimately whatever they share is considered and ultimately believed.

Hence, I am saying to you, who is sitting on thoughts, ideas, and opinions but choosing not to share them – are you not allowing for those you believe are left unchallenged to be left unchallenged. Allowing for misinformation to spread. Allowing for what Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie calls the danger of a single story to remain prevalent.

As an academic I know for a fact there is always room for new knowledge, there is room to critique existing knowledge and there is room to add to current knowledge. Therefore – your silence is not a solution.

Speak up. Catch the words in the air. Speaking can be through blogging, vlogging, podcasts, in meetings, in a book club, or opinion articles published in newspapers – speak up. Speaking up is equivalent to exercising. You must consistently do it for you to see improvement in your fitness.

So, I hope this is the push you need to create, to share your ideas, and views, and to never feel silenced again. Do it scared, do it when your thoughts are unpolished, do it shaking… but just do it.

The communication industry: My Experience

I have been thinking about my career journey lately and how I have moved and shimmed through different spaces of the media and communications landscape – and man – it all adds up. And the golden thread of it all – I would define as becoming a storyteller.

Although in professional terms the better description is “strategic communication professional” yet in all the roles I have occupied the same question would arise: “What is the story” or “What is the key message we are trying to land”. Whether I was in the newsroom writing an article about a protest in Soweto, or in the marketing department of an accounting software company developing a social media campaign for a new product launch.

The tools we use to get the story to the target audience have changed over the more than ten years I have had in the game. What I mean is that – it is no longer just about painting stories with just words, relying on just print and a one-way form of communication. Now, one must think about, long-form written articles, short-form posts for social media, images, video, sound, and third-party voices in the form of earned and paid-for advocates. In addition to the story, we are telling – there is also the follow-up story in terms of responses to the reaction – all of this is public – therefore it must all align.

It’s been fascinating evolving with this industry which I am passionate about – watching as we navigate new ways of working: some moving faster and others being more cautious. It takes courage to jump on the new thing and it also takes courage to be still in the rush and not feel under pressure to just act because everybody is doing something.

I am reflecting on this as I am back in the world of Public Relations (PR) after spending years focusing mostly on social media management (both on reputation management and marketing). In my time back – none of the plans I have developed have been created in a silo. Collaboration between marketing, social, website owners, events teams, and greater business has been a visible driving force in telling our stories to drive different objectives.

This is wonderful to experience because as a strategic communication professional – all I have ever wanted to see become reality is the breaking down of walls and seeing the different roles within the communication landscape work closely together. In the world we now play in – it is no longer fruitful for any of us to work in silos and not think of each other’s roles when putting together a campaign. Whether you see yourself as a specialist or generalist – we need each other to be able to tell the right stories for our brands.

In an era where our audience is easily distracted and we are all competing for their attention – there must be continuity in messaging wherever they engage with us; thought leadership articles, billboards, TV/Radio ads, online activity, and events. And even how we respond to reputation risk (read crisis communication). So, if you are a young marketer, social media manager, or public relations specialist – remember – collaboration with your colleagues is not just a tick-box exercise but a key ingredient for a successful campaign. It is also a learning moment to understand how others work – it might open your mind to the possibility of a career shift. In my case, I have worked in journalism, social media marketing, social media advertising, social media PR, Public Relations, Reputation Management, Online Reputation Management, Content Development, External Communications, and Strategic Communications (a lovely way of blending all those roles).