Sinalo Thuku is all about stories. No wonder she loves watching new shows and even revisiting old favourites. She was born and raised in Nqamakwe, Eastern Cape, and went on to study a Masters in Journalism and Media Studies at Rhodes University. She is currently placed with Sustainable Energy Africa in Cape Town, where she serves as a communications intern. Her role involves multimedia content creation, providing project and administrative support, and contributing to the organisation’s broader communication efforts. 

We asked him a few questions to find out more about his work, studies and inspirations:    

What are you passionate about? 

I am deeply passionate about storytelling. It shapes how I see the world, offering perspectives and insights that transcend time and place. From books I’ve read to folktales I’ve heard and shows I’ve watched, storytelling has always been more than entertainment. I see it as a tool for change, whether through journalism, advocacy or creative expression, a well-told story can spark conversations and inspire action. 

What inspired your choice of study? 

My love for storytelling was the driving force behind my studies. From a young age, I was fascinated by how narratives inform and shape thinking. As a media practitioner, I believe storytelling is at the heart of effective communication whether in journalism, advocacy or public relations. It’s about crafting messages that inform and move people. 

What excites you about your internship? 

I’m excited to apply my skills as a journalist to support Sustainable Energy Africa’s mission. I’m also eager to gain hands-on experience in learning how to translate complex energy topics into engaging content. The opportunity to collaborate, learn from experts and connect with fellow changemakers is something I value deeply. 

What are your expectations of this internship? 

I hope to gain practical experience that strengthens my environmental journalism and communication skills. I’m also looking to grow in areas like research and digital media, so I can become more effective in this field. More than anything, I see this as a space to connect with professionals and expand my network in both sustainability and media. 

What contribution do you hope to make towards a future in which people and nature thrive? 

I aim to raise awareness of environmental issues through accessible and engaging storytelling. Journalism has the power to make complex topics understandable and relatable, and I want to create content that highlights challenges while inspiring action and promoting sustainable practices. 

By bridging the gap between science and public understanding, I hope to bring environmental conversations into everyday life. 

Who inspires you most and why? 

My grandmother. Her strength and optimism have shaped how I approach life. She’s faced adversity with grace and taught me the value of kindness and perseverance.