By Phesheya Ian Kunene
MBABANE – A new chapter in storytelling has begun at Eswatini Positive News (EPN), as a vibrant group of 11 interns embarks on an uplifting journey in journalism.
In a dynamic orientation session, the interns were warmly welcomed by none other than Nathi Gule, Chairperson of the Southern African Freelancers Association and an esteemed media strategist.
Gule, who also spearheads the inspiring Positivity Series video podcast, shared his recent experiences from a European Union media engagement, bringing a fresh, global perspective to the local newsroom.
Gule wasted no time in echoing the mission that defines EPN—celebrating Eswatini through stories that uplift, inform, and inspire.
“Our role at EPN is to give light to what is working in our country and offer hope through our words,” he told the eager learners. “Each story you tell is a seed of hope.”
His session blended inspiration with instruction. Emphasizing journalistic integrity, Gule encouraged the interns to embrace truth-telling, ethical reporting, and fact-checking with enthusiasm and responsibility. “Being a journalist is more than writing. It’s being a guardian of truth,” he said.
The digital age was a central theme, with Gule highlighting how platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp have revolutionized storytelling. He urged the interns to embrace multimedia tools to connect with diverse audiences and present Eswatini’s development in engaging, creative formats.
He also encouraged a spirit of boldness: “Pitch your ideas. Chase the good happening in your communities. Become storytellers of transformation.”
Gule praised the interns’ energy and eagerness to learn, noting the high standard they’ve already displayed. He also commended the exponential growth of EPN itself—from humble beginnings to a vibrant platform with over 57 000 followers —crediting Founder Mbongeni Ndlela and his passionate team for their unwavering vision and commitment.
One of the interns, Thandolwethu Mlambo, a Public Relations student from Limkokwing University, expressed the collective excitement: “We’re thrilled to be part of something bigger than ourselves. EPN is not just a newsroom—it’s a movement, and we’re ready to be part of that impact.”
As these young storytellers step into the spotlight, they carry with them not only new skills, but a powerful mission: to shine a light on Eswatini’s triumphs and progress. Guided by mentors like Gule, the future of journalism in Eswatini looks bright—and full of positive stories waiting to be told.
