A NEW and exciting chapter awaits 35-year-old Highway Mail journalist, Deshni Ramkissoon-Pillay, a dedicated reporter who has become synonymous with print and online journalism in the Durban area.
After living her dream of being the mirror and voice of Highway communities for the past 12 years, Pillay is anticipating the next step in her journey, one that centres around her two adorable children and supportive family.
Known to be the one who’s always behind the lens, documenting both heartwarming and heart-wrenching stories, the Highway Mail sat down with Pillay in an interview this week, to find out more about her time as a community journalist.
The Reservoir Hills journalism graduate completed her studies at the Durban University of Technology in 2005 before starting her in-service training at the Highway Mail newspaper.
Joining the newsroom, under the astute leadership of former editor, Robyn Scott, marked the beginning of Pillay’s career, which has been filled with an abundance of exciting, challenging, heartbreaking and proud moments.
While speaking about her time as a journalist and her decision to join the field, Pillay’s eyes lit up with an immense measure of joy and a broad smile that encapsulated her sense of pride and accomplishment.
The ambitious mother of two said, “Ever since I was a little girl, I always dreamed of being behind a camera, reporting the news as I thought it was important to let our communities know what was going on. Working at the Highway Mail has allowed me to fulfill my passion for writing and also provided me with the opportunity to meet and profile many prominent people, musicians and artists in our society. Apart from the adrenaline-rushes I experienced while reporting on hundreds of breaking news stories, I was also able to interact with local residents across the Highway area from different backgrounds and fields, assist various non-profit organisations and help those who desperately needed a platform to share their stories.
When asked about her most impactful story, Pillay mentioned the ongoing battle with the Shongweni Landfill, which she had been reporting on for the past three years with her in-depth pieces, highlighting the community’s fight for clean air.
According to Pillay, working in the newsroom has moulded her into the individual she is today and has contributed to her strong-willed, confident and outspoken nature. These traits have allowed her to push boundaries, overcome obstacles, excel and reach greater heights on a personal and professional level.
Parting thoughts
Her message to those aspiring to join the field of journalism is, “Be confident, remain objective at all times and always strive to uncover the truth. Stay true to yourself and don’t let experiences, especially negative ones, affect your personality.”
Speaking about the role the Highway Mail and its people have played in her life, Pillay said, “This company has seen me through many different chapters in my life.
From joining as a student, the loss of my brother, marriage and the birth of my two children. I also thank my former editor, Robyn Scott for moulding me and making me a stronger person, my current editor, Michelle Dennis for her support, compassion and for helping me through the past two years, my editorial team and everyone I have worked with over the years. I hope that our paths will cross again in the future.”
Message from the editor
“Your colleagues and I wish you well. You have made your mark and we are so proud of you. We will miss you.” Michelle Dennis
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