Mothushi Thoka, 29, is helping redefine what journalism looks like in the age of artificial intelligence. Rather than seeing AI as a threat to storytelling, she is harnessing its potential to make news more accessible, engaging and relevant while ensuring technology remains in service to people.
As an AI multimedia journalist at Lumière Labs, Media24's AI Innovation Lab, Thoka develops innovative ways to transform written reporting into immersive multimedia experiences. Her work explores how AI can strengthen digital journalism, improve audience engagement and expand the possibilities of newsroom storytelling.
Holding a postgraduate diploma in library and information science, she has emerged as one of a new generation of journalists bridging technology, media and public interest. Among her pioneering contributions is helping produce one of South Africa's first Afrikaans AI-driven podcasts for Huisgenoot. Long before joining the innovation lab, Thoka demonstrated journalism's power to create tangible change.
Her reporting at News24 mobilised support for vulnerable families and students, while her commitment to community continues through the Holding Hands Foundation, where she has helped more than 300 learners from rural Limpopo access university admission and financial aid since 2022.
She also founded Travelcations, opening travel opportunities to people from underserved communities. Driven by curiosity and compassion, Thoka believes innovation is most meaningful when it expands opportunities, amplifies overlooked voices and helps others imagine futures previously beyond their reach.