Celebrating community journalists at RLabs' First Thursdays

Community journalists were honoured for their vital role in telling stories that matter at the RLabs' First Thursday gathering on Thursday, August 7, which also marked the third anniversary of RLabs House.

The event provided an opportunity for present and former Cape Community Media journalists to reconnect, reflect, and shine a light on the challenges and experiences they face while covering communities across Cape Town.

Since the onset of Covid-19, many journalists have been working from home with minimal communication with colleagues, which also impacted their connection with the community, said city and surrounds reporter, Fouzia van der Fort. 

Ms van der Fort said the event was essential for consolidating where journalists find themselves and embracing the changes brought on by the pandemic and industry restructuring.

“Spaces like these allow us to share our burdens, celebrate successes, and instil hope for ourselves and the community,” she said.

The evening featured a pop-up photo exhibition and panel discussion on community news and storytelling, arranged by freelance journalist and author Dr Alicia English, Ms van der Fort, and Cape Community Media sports reporter Fuad Esack. 

Dr English said engaging with fellow journalists and the community was heartwarming.

“We rely on the trust of the community to tell their stories. Moderating the panel, I could feel the audience’s hunger to learn from the experiences of journalists in the room,” she said. “Several people have asked when the next one will be. We need more events like this.”

Panelists shared personal insights into their work. Multi-media content producer and former Athlone News reporter Nabeelah Mohedeen said: “It felt amazing to engage with colleagues, unite, and shine a light on community journalism. My passion for storytelling drives me to make a difference, and last week’s event was inspiring and thought-provoking.” 

Hazel Allies-Husselman, a former Athlone News reporter who broke the story on RLabs when the organisation first started, also participated in the panel discussion.

Her presence highlighted the critical role local reporters play in amplifying community voices and sharing stories that matter.

The photo exhibition featured former editor, Simoneh de Bruin, former editor-in-chief Chantel Erfort, Plainsman, Athlone News, and Vukani reporter Marsha Bothma, former Vukani editor Vukile Sonandzi, content manager and former Capetowner reporter Tamlynne Thompson, Mr Esack, and Ms Allies-Husselman.

Dr English thanked RLabs for hosting the pop-up exhibition and panel discussion, highlighting the platform it provides to celebrate storytelling and community engagement. 

RLabs spokesperson Mareldia Wentzel said: “From 70 guests under a winter tent to hundreds from across Cape Town and the world, this third birthday was a full-circle moment. Honouring the journalists who keep our communities informed was the perfect way to recognise their work.”

Rene Parker, co-founder and director of RLabs, said the space has become a thriving hub for creative expression, storytelling, and community connection.

“Celebrating journalists reinforces the importance of amplifying community voices, holding institutions accountable, and sharing solutions,” Ms Parker said.