Pretoria: A panel session has called on women not only to support each other, but to embrace innovation and safeguard the truth in an era defined by artificial intelligence (AI) and digital disruption. Hosted by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) in partnership with Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), the Women in Media and Communication discussion formed part of Women’s Month celebrations, held under the theme: ‘Leveraging the use of AI in Education, Media and Communication.’
According to South African Government News Agency, the event brought together leaders in government communication, mainstream media, community media, and digital innovation for a robust exchange with TUT students in media, journalism, and integrated communication. Panel moderator and news anchor at the SABC, Bongiwe Zwane, stressed that the spirit of community should begin among students themselves, encouraging them to support one another as they prepare for the workplace. She urged young women to see each other not as rivals but as colleagues who can uplift and inspire one another.
The panel featured Pamela Madonsela from the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA); Director for GCIS Parliamentary Office, Liezil Cerf; Head of Digital Communication in the Presidency, Athi Geleba; and Managing Editor at Code For Africa’s iLAB, Athandiwe Saba. It also featured Dr Maria Mushaathoni, the Head of Department for Journalism/ Integrated Communication at TUT. Madonsela highlighted the critical role of community media in telling authentic stories and connecting with citizens but warned that sustainability remains a pressing challenge.
Cerf reflected on her career shift from journalism to government communication, saying her passion lies in simplifying complex policy and parliamentary processes for the public. Saba warned of the risks of AI-powered disinformation and stressed the importance of training journalists to verify online content. Meanwhile, Geleba emphasised the Presidency’s role in countering fake news and building public trust.
The conversation also touched on women’s leadership, with Cerf calling for structured mentorship networks. Madonsela urged women to stop with the ‘pull her down syndrome’ and to instead uplift each other. Meanwhile, Geleba encouraged students to identify mentors and bring their full identities into the workplace. The panel concluded with a call to action for young communicators to use technology responsibly, champion credible information, and support one another in the pursuit of excellence.