Blog

August round-up of Daily Maverick’s #LiveJournalism

23 Sep 2024

At Daily Maverick, our Events and Webinar Department links public-service journalism with audience engagement. We host webinars to deepen community connections, enhance understanding of key issues and bring stories to life through interactive experiences.

We hosted five webinars this month, all of which can be found on our dedicated webinar platform or YouTube.

Here’s a sneak peek of our latest live journalism webinars, the topics covered and key takeaways, just for you.

The Social Media Diet: How digital marketing impacts unhealthy food habits

We started the month with a thought-provoking Food Justice webinar, led by Maverick Citizen managing editor Zukiswa Pikoli, in which nutrition experts highlighted the powerful influence of social media and digital marketing on our food choices and overall health. Attendees were surprised to learn how their daily scrolling can negatively affect their diets, as they are constantly targeted by influencers and marketing campaigns promoting specific dietary trends.

A word from a webinar attendee:

“I think a lot of processed foods are targeted at the lower-income classes, where processed ‘foods’ are often made very cheaply and conveniently. I think the education system should focus on food education.”

Anatomy of a Crisis: Tackling housing and homelessness in Cape Town

As the country moved towards a government of national unity, we turned our focus on how the City would and could tackle Cape Town’s housing crisis. Following Daily Maverick journalist Tamsin Meterlekamp’s exposé, we featured mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis and activists as they explored the main drivers of housing and homelessness in Cape Town and discussed actionable strategies and solutions to support unhoused communities.

What the audience had to say:

“Btw, I am 36, employed and cannot afford a house or even my rent! The housing crisis is across the board, not just to one particular demographic. The field has changed for us all.”

“Give thanks for engaging in this fundamental humanitarian necessity. I hope the discussion continues to seek out solutions. It is huge!”

We Were Perfect Parents Until We Had Children: The village we all need

Co-authors Vanessa Raphaely and Karin Schimke joined personal finance editor Neesa Moodley for an engaging discussion about their new book, We Were Perfect Parents Until We Had Children. This heartwarming webinar reassured parents that they’re not alone on their journey and highlighted the importance of embracing love, laughter and growth along the way.

Views from our viewers:

“For me The Village has made me feel safe to ask about my difficult child, [and] also hear from others with different and difficult teenagers and young adults. It makes one realise we all have our struggles.”

“The different views expressed by the Villagers to a topic is actually very helpful. Not one family is the same so you can tailor-make a response to suit your family from the suggestions and comments.”

“Where has The Villager been all my life? Thank you for this session. I’ve learned a lot already.”

A Sustainable Twist: Battle of the Aquatic Plant Invaders

From the Vaal River to Hartbeespoort Dam, the effects of invasive aquatic plants have been detrimental to the health of communities and the environment. This webinar explored how water hyacinth increases flood risks, disrupts clean water supplies, and creates breeding grounds for mosquitoes, heightening the threat of diseases such as malaria. Journalist Julia Evans and experts discussed solutions to this growing problem, with input from a very active and concerned audience.

Additions from attendees:

“Thank you for this engagement & supporting collaboration towards implementing solutions, not just highlighting the problems. ARMOUR appreciates the support you all give to this life-giving subject.”

“We need to realise that the water will end up going into our own water supply further downstream. Treating those pollutants costs us a large fortune. Invasive plants make the costs higher.”

“Water hyacinths cannot remove significant amounts of harmful elements. The effect on water users is enormous. Water loss is increased when plants are present. We have limited water sources.”

Daily Maverick Masterclass: Spotlight on Marketing Effectiveness

In the inaugural Daily Maverick Masterclass, David Blyth, Africa partner for the renowned global consultancy eatbigfish, was joined by marketing experts to shine a light on marketing effectiveness. Together with comments and questions from the audience of more than 550, they explored how to enhance customer experiences and sustain success in today’s competitive market. These industry leaders shared valuable insights and practical strategies to improve customer engagement and measure marketing impact effectively.

Did you know? All publications showcased in our virtual book launch webinars can be bought directly from the Daily Maverick Shop. Not only will you receive first-class customer service when buying from our store, but you will also be supporting independent journalism, and for that we are very grateful! Browse our virtual shelves here.

Masterclass merits:

“Thank you for your time, David, Gaynor and Mosala, this was very insightful. I really appreciate you offering this to us at no cost. You are all obviously very well versed in your professions.”

“Thank you very much. I am not even in the marketing industry but have learned a lot.”

Sign up to remain updated on Daily Maverick’s live journalism webinars here. DM

Categories:

Blog

Tags:

DM is much better if you are signed in...