Kaunda “Kay” Selisho, 33, is a sharp voice in South African media, helping redefine digital storytelling through her work at News24. As deputy lifestyle editor, she champions innovation — blending journalism with digital media. From Crowning Glory to Pride Pulse, her special multimedia projects amplify underrepresented voices and prove what’s possible when storytelling meets imagination. Beyond her writing, she invests in nurturing emerging talent, creating space for professional development and cultivating a collaborative newsroom culture. Originally set on a law career, Kaunda’s father encouraged her to pause and reassess. That gap year steered her into journal- ism, earning “story of the year” honours. A media literacy advo- cate and informal mentor, she believes in the power of inclusion, using journalism to bring more people to the table and democratise knowledge. Whether mentoring, writing or innovating, she’s driven by the urge to do better than her last milestone. Kaunda urges policymakers to consider bold, pro-poor interventions like a universal basic income, stressing that dignity starts with stability. She believes in compassion and the power of values-based storytelling.
BA in Journalism, University of Johannesburg (majoring in politics and international relations)
Winning several ‘most read’ and ‘story of the year’ accolades during my time at The Citizen confirmed the right career choice and demonstrated a strong understanding of reaching and serving audiences. Feedback from aspiring young journalists, who still share when they have secured an opportunity, also warms the heart. Speaking to media practitioners admired from a young age set the right path, and it feels fulfilling to be that person for the next generation.
Always been a huge fan of black women in media. Closely followed the careers of the True Love team who produced the magazine during its formative years — women such as Lerato Tshabalala, Sbu Mpungose and Mbali Soga, as well as the fashion and beauty editors they worked with. Also, have immense respect for women such as Gisèle Wertheim Aymes, Pnina Fenster, Danielle Weakly, Jane Raphaely and Asanda Sizani. Some of the women mentioned above have always been open to receiving career-related questions, sharing advice and allaying anxiety, which helped immensely when navigating life in a newsroom.