about
Activate is an independent student news organisation based in Makhanda, Eastern Cape, South Africa. We strive to keep our community informed by producing fresh, cutting-edge online content.
Activate was established in 1947. It circulated as a weekly newspaper with great popularity on Rhodes University (UCKAR) campus. Decades later, Activate operates on various online platforms. We encourage young journalists to get out there and pursue their passion.
MEET THE TEAM
YUVTHI MISSER
DEPUTY EDITOR
ARTS AND CULTURE EDITOR
FASHION EDITOR

Hello and welcome to Activate! I’m Yuvthi and I’m just an aspiring filmmaker and writer. I tend to mindlessly consume media from time to time.
MUMSY RATHOBOTHA
ARTS AND CULTURE SUB-EDITOR

Heyy, My name is Martha but I go by Mumsy. I am the new sub-editor for the Arts and Culture section. I write for both Arts and Culture and Sports, and I am doing my third year in Journalism. Writing is one of my passions after filming and directing, of course. I am just as obsessed with sports as I am with cats. I like to read when the weather is gloomy and I do my best writing when it's sunny.
SONWABISO MLONYENI
FASHION SUB-EDITOR

I am Sonwabiso Mlonyeni, born and raised here in Makhanda. I am a first-year student doing Journalism and Media studies. I went to Ntaba Maria Primary School and Ntsika Secondary School where I matriculated. I love reading, going out, and being creative. As a journalist, I stand for the truth.
AMY-GRACE BESSICK
ART & CULTURE SUB-EDITOR

Amy-Grace is a self proclaimed art enthusiast who loves K-Dramas, the impressionism movement and wearing clothes that may her look like she's jump out of a Disney movie. As a sub-editor for Activate this year, she hopes to assist her team and bring more art focused profiles to the site.
ALEX DE JONGH
SPORTS EDITOR
Hello Activate Audience! I’m Alex, and I will be the Sports Editor for 2023. I am an avid
sports watcher and dedicated Springbok supporter. Sports have always been a source of
entertainment for me and a way to relax and unwind. My wish is to grow Activate by
uncovering the Sports stories that don’t make the headlines.

KERRY LANAGHAN
SOCIAL AWARENESS EDITOR
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
SPORTS SUB-EDITOR

Hi, I’m Kerry. I’m a journalism student from Johannesburg and I have a passion for politics, sports and writing. I hope to create a space within the Social Awareness and Sports sections which is progressive, encouraging and exciting.
KATERIEN LOUBSER
SOCIAL AWARENESS SUB-EDITOR

Hello! My name is Katerien Loubser, but everyone knows me as Kat. I grew up in Qonce (previously known as King William’s Town) but live mostly in Cape Town now. I am a Bachelor of Economics student and love people, reading, history and the occasional cappuccino. I am always keen for a chat and/or a laugh.

Hi! I'm Hannah, a young, aspiring journalist from Johannesburg. I'm a nature-loving JMS2 student who hopes to help better the world. I am excited to be a new member of the Activate team, as your Wellness sub-editor for 2023.
HANNAH THORPE
WELLNESS SUB-EDITOR