South African news can be a dizzying experience. Who tells journalists what they know, why do we publish what we publish and where does that leave you, the reader?
We at the Mail & Guardian believe that news production is changing. Gone are the days where journalists talk at you, telling you what to think. Thanks to social media and other innovations, news has become a two-way conversation — the way it was meant to be, we like to think.
Which is why the M&G is the first international publication partnering with the Public Insight Network (PIN), a tool that allows you to tell us what you know about current events and stories that aren’t being heard.
We want to hear what you have to say. A corrupt councillor taking your community for a ride? Inside knowledge of suspicious tenders at a government department? Or perhaps expert knowledge or experience about a particular topic of interest in the news of late, be it the census process, nuclear power or medical malpractice.
Once you sign up to PIN, telling us what your areas of specialisation and experience are, you will join our network of sources and can expect an occasional mail from us when we are tackling a story to which we feel you can add. You are also invited to recommend your own story ideas to the M&G‘s award-winning journalists.
Journalists contact PIN participants via telephone, SMS, survey forms, email and social media to ask editorially relevant questions about current events and issues.
The M&G is PIN’s first African partner, and joins over 35 other publications who together make up a network of more than 120Â 000 sources.
What you can expect by joining the Public Insight Network:
- An occasional email from the M&G asking for your insight on issues we plan to cover. You can respond, or not.
- An occasional call or email to get more information, if we follow a lead you provide.
- Confidentiality: Nothing you share with us is used without your permission on-air or online; PIN members must give permission in order for the M&G to use the information.
- An open line for you to tell us what’s important to you, your family and your community.
- The information you provide is securely stored.
- PIN is a product of American Public Media. You may be asked to help with stories through other partners on the network, primarily based in the US, on local stories of international interest. Your participation will inform a host of well-known programmes.
- No spam, marketing calls, or requests for money. Ever.
- You can leave the PIN network any time you want.
- You must be at least 13 years old to join.
Go here to join our network and become part of the news that shapes South Africa.