What Working With Us Looks Like
Populism Africa Review produces podcast episodes, essays and supporting publication material on politics across South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana and Zambia. Our work is grounded in research, editing and clear explanation, so the people we hire need to be comfortable with facts, context and the discipline of working from brief to final copy.
We are a small, experienced team, and each role matters. That means steady communication, respect for deadlines and the ability to work independently when needed. Some tasks are based in Johannesburg, while others can be handled with flexible arrangements depending on the work and the person.
Roles in the newsroom
We regularly look for people with experience in media, publishing and political analysis support. The roles we may hire for include editorial, production, research and audience work.
- Podcast Producer and Audio Support
- Editor or Copy Editor
- Research Assistant or Fact Checker
- Script Developer or Essay Editor
- Publishing and Scheduling Coordinator
- Audience, Partnerships and Distribution Support
We are especially interested in people who can handle dense subject matter, keep notes in order and work neatly across different formats. A good ear for spoken language and a strong eye for structure are both useful here.
The Kind Of Experience That Helps
Formal qualifications can help, but practical experience often counts just as much. We value people who have worked in newsrooms, publishing, radio, podcasts, research environments or policy related writing. Familiarity with African politics is helpful, but so is the ability to learn quickly and ask the right questions.
- Strong writing and editing skills
- Confidence working with sources and background reading
- Good time management and file handling
- Comfort with revision and editorial feedback
- Clear, professional communication
If you live in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Soweto, or if you are based in Nairobi, Lagos, Accra or Lusaka and can work remotely where suitable, you are welcome to apply when your skills match the kind of work we do.
Pitching to join the newsroom
To apply, send your CV through the reader form on our contact page and add a short note about the kind of work you want to do. If you have clips, published essays, production credits or research samples, mention them in your message. We look at applications as they arrive and keep suitable details on file for later openings.
Please make sure your CV is up to date and easy to follow. If you have worked across editing, research, audio or publishing, say so clearly. That helps us see where you may fit into the team.
Why writers join the newsroom
Many applicants are drawn to the mix of editorial work, political context and public interest publishing. Our team works with care, not noise. We expect accuracy, measured judgement and a willingness to improve the work at every stage.
- Work with material that explains politics clearly
- Support both podcast and publishing output
- Join a team based in Rosebank, Johannesburg
- Contribute to a respectful, non partisan editorial process
We look for people who can stay organised and keep moving.
A Note On Our Editorial Approach
Our commentary is independent and non partisan. We explain political ideas, institutions and history using general knowledge, careful reading and editorial checks. We do not ask staff to promote any party or candidate, and we do not work with election hype or guesswork.
If that approach appeals to you, and you believe your skills could add value to a serious political commentary team, we would be glad to hear from you through the contact page enquiry form.