By Kgaugelo Jessica Selane
For years, women in media and communication have been boxed into roles defined by stereotypes. On screen, they are often portrayed as caregivers or symbols of beauty, while behind the scenes, many are steered toward “softer” roles. Meanwhile, men continue to dominate leadership positions and technical fields. These patterns do more than shape representation they influence how women are treated, reinforcing barriers that hold back equality in the industry.
It is against this backdrop that the Faculty of Humanities at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), in partnership with the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), hosted a Women in Media and Communication Dialogue on 26 August. Now in its third year, the dialogue seeks to equip young women with the tools, mentorship and networks they need to thrive in the media industry. Students were given access to professionals who have paved the way, as well as one on one mentoring opportunities aimed at preparing them for the challenges ahead.
Opening the event, Dr Vathiswa Papu-Zamxaka, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Engagement, described the gathering as a celebration of women’s resilience and leadership. She said the dialogue is more than a discussion, it is also about building a legacy of empowerment that allows women to lead with confidence and innovation. Students, she said, remain at the heart of the academic programme and their creativity and aspirations are what drive TUT’s commitment to providing spaces of mentorship and growth.
Opening the event, Dr Vathiswa Papu-Zamxaka, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Engagement
The conversation also highlighted the tough realities women face in media spaces. SABC News Prime Time Anchor, Bongiwe Zwane, reminded students that progress must be seen in its full context. For black women in particular, entering the industry often comes with pain and the constant battle to be recognised. She argued that their experiences should not be viewed as complications but as strengths that enrich the field. She urged young women to claim their seat at the table not as a favour, but as a rightful place earned through their value, presence and purpose.
SABC News Prime Time Anchor, Bongiwe Zwane
Technology and its impact on education also came into focus. Dr Maria Mushaathoni, Head of Journalism and Integrated Communication, explained that Artificial Intelligence (AI) has already changed how students learn and how journalism operates. Used responsibly, she said, AI can personalise learning, increase engagement and ease workloads. But she warned that over reliance could weaken critical thinking. She called on students to understand both generative AI, which creates content and predictive AI which predicts outcomes and to use them in ways that support, rather than replace teaching and learning.
Dr Maria Mushaathoni, Head of Journalism and Integrated Communication, explained that Artificial Intelligence (AI) has already changed how students learn and how journalism operates.
Expanding on this theme, Athi Geleba, Head of Digital Communication at The Presidency, reflected on the ways AI is reshaping the way people live, work and communicate. While it offers enormous opportunities she cautioned that it also brings risks such as misinformation, bias and threats to authentic content. Geleba emphasised that AI cannot capture human experience or emotional intelligence. For this reason, she argued ethical frameworks and human oversight are essential as the technology becomes more embedded in both academia and the industry.
Athi Geleba, Head of Digital Communication at The Presidency
The 2025 Women in Media and Communication Dialogue highlighted the challenges as well as opportunities facing women in the industry. Through mentorship and insights from experienced professionals, students were encouraged to embrace their creativity, claim their space and lead with purpose. The event reaffirmed that progress is possible when knowledge and diligence come together.
TUT students who attended the TUT and GCIS host Women in Media Dialogue aimed at empowering future female leaders in media and communication.