I get it, most people don’t know what I do, but it’s quite simple: I’m a journalist.
I moved away from traditional print media or radio journalism a few years ago because I needed to do my own thing. Funny enough, that led me to content creation, which many might not see as journalism, simply because it seems more exciting. But it’s exactly because of that exciting aspect that I really love what I do.
When I started as a journalist in 2014, I had to go out, collect information, and make sure it was factual. Then I had to write a factual article in my own voice while still following all reporting protocols. I loved doing that; I love telling stories, but I never loved constantly being the bearer of bad news.
One of the reasons I stepped into freelance journalism was to be more creative. I wanted to tell real-life stories while staying true to what I love and what I’m passionate about. The Movie Guy not only allows me to keep being a journalist but also to express myself through various mediums like videos, photos, and of course writing. I still write for newspapers, and occasionally I still write for other kinds of publications as well.
The work I do might look different from what I did when I first started, but to me, it’s all the same. I just get to do things that matter to me. I want to get people excited about film, TV, and pop culture. At the same time, I want to be honest and tell them when something really is that good. Time is valuable, and no one wants to sit through two hours of disappointment.
Events like Comic Con are another example of how I changed course in my career. I used to attend municipal meetings and business events, but no one really cared if I wrote about that. Now, I write and talk about events that people actually care about. I get to share stories from people who are generally overlooked by the mainstream media.
So, if anyone ever asks what I do, tell them I’m a journalist who just happens to create content as well. And I love every aspect of it – except for the pay. Freelancers don’t really earn much, and content creators rely on sponsors or other support.
As you all know, I’m at Comic Con Africa this week, and I was blessed by so many people and even companies backing my trip to Johannesburg. But I still have a few outstanding expenses. If anyone is able to make a donation, even R10 (N$10) can make a difference and help with things like transport and food. Please reach out if you’d like to help — either send a message to +27 73 114 2807 / themovieguy.nam@gmail.com, or find my banking details below.
South Africa – Bank Transfer
Bank: Discovery Bank
Account Name: Johdan de Klerk
Account Number: 111 520 93789
Branch Code: 679000
Account Type: Cheque
BIC/Swift: DISCZAJJXXX
Reference: Your Name + “MovieGuy”
Namibia – Bank Transfer
Bank: Bank Windhoek
Account Name: Barry Junior De Klerk
Account Number: 802 492 0357
Branch Code: 481-471 Mariental
Account Type: Cheque
Reference: Your Name + “MovieGuy”
