Comaro Chronicle news editor receives pleasant surprise

ON Tuesday, September 1, the news editor for the Comaro CHRONICLE, Julie Maule, had the surprise of her life when she went to interview Matthew August, a learner at Abbotts College Johannesburg South, and he ended up interviewing her instead.

Why did you move to South Africa?

I came to SA on holiday in 1984 and met a guy and decided to come back and live here.

Do you think you can report truthfully on SA politics?

To a certain extent, yes, but there is a line which can’t be crossed.

Which things do you prefer to write at about?

Definitely human interest stories. Ones which make a difference and can benefit a person or the community.

What has been the highlight of your career?

There have been many highlights. I think one was probably having the opportunity to meet former president, Thabo Mbeki. He is a very charismatic individual and gave me a chance to photograph him even before the bigger newspapers had a chance. I felt very privileged as he asked me to come forward to take a photo.

What motivates you and keeps you going?

One of the things I became involved with was St Mary’s Children’s Home after I wrote an article about the home many years ago. Since then, I have had a very special place in my heart for the home and all the children. Nothing can bring you down to earth as quickly as young children who don’t have much, but remain positive, full of fun and laughter. They are the most wonderful tonic for me.

What qualification’s would you suggest a learner has to have to become a journalist?

A matric qualification and then either college or university to gain a degree in journalism. Also a passion for what they are doing and to be willing to go the extra mile. Journalism isn’t an eight to five career, it’s 24/7 job.

Is it a glamorous job?

Not at all! Some stories are hard work where you have to put in hours of investigation and others are heart breaking. Working on a community newspaper though lets you into the lives of the local residents and it’s an honour and a privilege to tell their stories. I also have the added benefit of being invited to theatre openings and some wonderful events.

Does being a journalist make you well-known?

To be honest, probably not, unless you are a top journalist. However, working for a community newspaper I have become a well-known figure in the South.

Do you think printed newspapers will fade out with digital technology?

I think there will always be a place for print but digitally the news gets out there immediately and that’s what news is all about.