As a Journalism student, my days often comprised of me observing young and successful journalists. Slindelo Masikane was one of them.

I would observe how she conducted her work and approached her craft. This is because I have always somewhat known the power of relatability and tangible representations. For me, she represented (and still does) the possibilities which existed in the media industry for girls like me.

Raised from humble beginnings and good values

Born Slindelokuhle Masikane and fondly known as ‘Sli’, she hails from the lively streets of Alexandra. She is the first born of three children and was raised by her amazing parents, Sipho and Sphiwe, who met in church and share a beautiful love story.

“I like to refer to myself as a honeymoon baby, because my parents had me literally nine months after they got married. They really devoted much of their life to improving the lives of their children,” she said.

A good education and a well-rounded upbringing are some of the many commendable things she credits her parents for.

“We’re from very humble beginnings. My parents didn’t have a lot of money. But when they did, they certainly spent most of on trying to make sure we’re okay. I think they’ve done a pretty good job,” she said in a satisfied tone.

The media practitioner and storyteller further added that growing up in the township has made her more compassionate – a trait clearly visible in how she conducts her work.

“I always want people to feel comfortable. I want them to forget that the cameras are here and that they have mics on. I want us to have a conversation.”

A career of growth and impact

Currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Journalism and Media Studies at Wits University, Masikane was first bitten by the radio bug in her second year of varsity.

“My undergraduate degree is in Psychology and Sociology. In second year, I auditioned for our campus radio station, Vow FM. I didn’t make it the first time but I made it into the news department the second time around.”

During the time just before her graduation, she was fortunate enough to receive an internship at Jacaranda FM. This was a dream come true for her as she knew without a doubt that she wanted to be in broadcast.

“At Jacaranda FM, that’s really where I developed. When I left that newsroom, I was a Senior Reporter.”

Masikane is currently at eNCA and is enjoying the opportunity to tell stories in visual form. Moreover, she views her career highlight as finally being able to find the kind of stories she enjoys telling, as well as being able to tell them well.

“More than 10 years later, I’m starting to find my feet. There’s a difference between reporting and storytelling. I think I’m at a stage where I’m passionate about telling stories as opposed to reporting.”

Importantly, she also highlighted that she has been privileged to work alongside great editors and managers who have been very supportive and able to identify the kind of stories she tells very well.

Although she has had the opportunity to cover big high-profile cases throughout her career, she equally values the small stories that have a big impact.

“It’s those stories that you tell and then something happens. A change happens. It is good to leave people better than you have found them.”

Only human after all…

Throughout her career, Masikane has covered different stories. Some were big and breaking, some shocking, some heart-breaking and only a few of them heart-warming.

Since humanness is not something that can be neatly folded and placed in one’s back pocket only to be accessed after a story, our conversation naturally led into heart-wrenching stories she has had to cover.

“One in particular that really had me so emotional was when I was covering the demolition of an informal settlement. You know when the ‘red ants’ come in and they just destroy everything?

Watching people see everything of theirs be treated like rubbish and seeing them watch their homes being destroyed in front of them really hit me hard. I cried,” she said.

According to her, what worsens the pain in such situations is often the helplessness.

“There’s literally nothing which they or you could do. The least you can do is show this on television, but then what? It’s always heartbreaking to leave people the way you found them. You want to be able to help.”

Fortunately, she has a solid support system for days when it all gets a bit too much. Her spirituality is also her source of strength.

Fitness, fun and phenomenal poetry

On days when Masikane is not reporting on the latest breaking news story, she can be found in the gym working up a sweat. She also enjoys staying home, either playing host or simply being.

“I like to just sit at home because I don’t get to be at home a lot. I love hanging out with friends. I sometimes host games night and I am very competitive.”

The passionate reporter is also a reader and spends some of her time within the pages of good books.

“I read a lot of poetry. I’m a huge fan of Billy Chipata and Maya Angelou.”

Honouring oneself and staying true to the vision

Indeed, television is a powerful medium. It is one which continues to expose Masikane and her craft to millions of viewers. Some may be people who look up to her and have aspirations of being in the world of media.

When asked what words she has for those who would someday like to be in her shoes, she emphasised the importance of being present on one’s journey and honouring oneself.

“Our paths on this earth are so different. More than anything, just trust your gut. There’s no formula to this thing. What’s meant for you won’t miss you,” she said.

Equally, she added the importance of having a vision, working on it and operating from a space of grace.

“Nothing is going to be handed to you on a silver platter. It’s important to have a vision. It’s important to have goals and to pray. Just know that this thing is a journey. It’s a marathon, it’s not a sprint. Do what you love and give yourself grace.”