Publish your Research

Share research, Engage with Policy Makers and Impact Society

The Conversation has 1.6 million readers a month. If you’ve been wondering how to get your research into the public domain so people can understand how it affects them, consider publishing with The Conversation.

The Conversation’s editors will work collaboratively with you. You approve their edits, and nothing is published without your approval. Their creative commons model means that any article published on their site can be republished anywhere in the world as long as they don’t change the copy and they credit you as the academic. In this way, when you publish on The Conversation Africa site, your writing is shared far and wide.

To be published by The Conversation you must be currently employed as a researcher or academic with a university or research institution. PhD candidates under supervision by an academic can write for the Conversation as long as they have completed their fieldwork. Currently The Conversation does not publish articles from Masters students.

Contact Catherine if you qualify to publish and would like support in approaching The Conversation: catherine@canoncollins.org

Alternatively, go directly to The Conversation:  https://theconversation.com/africa/pitches

All the pitches that are sent in on this link are looked at by a group of editors every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon.

Send a 100-word (at most) outline of a proposed article, a 10-line (or shorter) summary of your experience and an example of your previous work (preferably, an internet link to the publication in which it appears).

Write “Feature Submission” in the subject line to editoronline@mg.co.za

Send an opinion piece to opinion@mg.co.za with “opinion piece” in the subject line.

Please always include a short biography with the article together with a photo.

Contact Catherine if you would like support in approaching Mail and Guardian: catherine@canoncollins.org

Below are a few guidelines for contributors:

1. The article must be exclusive to the Mail & Guardian.
2. Have hyperlinks — not footnotes — to relevant articles/research. (This allows readers to click on the links if they want to learn more about a particular aspect of the piece.)
3. Be between 800 and 1500 words.
4. Include a photo of the author/s.
5. Include a bio of about 30 words or less.
6. Include any social media handles (not mandatory)
7. Send the piece as an attachment (Word or Google Doc, preferably not a PDF).

It can take a few days for pieces to be read and considered. Mail and Guardian receive dozens of submissions daily and need to give each one the same attention, so please be patient. If the article is time sensitive (related to an upcoming event/special day etc), please indicate that in the subject field. If they decide to publish the piece, they will inform you.

Daily Maverick editorial policy for submissions

NB: Submissions which promote products and/or for-profit companies will not be considered for publication unless there are exceptional and compelling circumstances.

Note that our preferred length for Opeds/Opinionistas is between 700 and 1,400 words. In exceptional circumstances, we will consider longer submissions.

Submissions must be in Word Document or plain text format, and not PDFs. Photographs must be high-resolution jpegs.

Submit accurate personal details as to your identity (a short biography), contact details, as well as a high-resolution head and shoulders photograph of yourself (the writer).

Note that we use standard British English spellings and grammar, and NOT American English.

Wherever relevant (and feasible) include hyperlinks to supporting/background texts, references, organisations, court judgments etc. If you are not sure how to insert a hyperlink, paste the URL in brackets at the end of the relevant paragraph and we will insert the link.

Disclose any financial or personal relationships with entities cited in the article, or other conflicts of interests.

Disclose whether the piece in question has been published before, and where – note that as a rule, we do not publish opeds/opinionistas that have already been published in other media.

Disclose whether any artificial intelligence/large language model programs have been used in the writing of the article. Indicate exactly which sections of the article have been written using AI assists.

Acknowledge use of the work of others by:

(a) identifying the original source of an idea;

(b) using quotation marks where words have been directly lifted from another source; 

(c) identifying the original author immediately before or after the quoted words; and

(d) including hyperlinks to original articles quoted from in addition to using quotation marks and identifying the author.

Always include the first names of all persons cited or quoted in the article at first mention – this includes the first names of judges, academics, lawyers, etc.

Note that submissions which have as the subject any dispute, consumer complaint, legal action, disciplinary action etc in which the writer is the complainant/subject will not be considered for publication unless there are exceptional and compelling circumstances.

Abide by editors’ final decisions on headlines and editing.

Contact Catherine if you wish to publish: catherine@canoncollins.org 

 

 

Life is political – and personal experience is sometimes the best way to influence political change. If you want to tell your story rather than share research or only share research, contact Catherine. Catherine will help you to develop the story and find the best place to publish: catherine@canoncollins.org

In the Media

Canon Collins Trust 
Independent Philanthropy Association South Africa
Higher Education Transformation Through Multi-Sector Collaboration

Higher Education Transformation Through Multi-Sector Collaboration: This insightful article by Ivor Baatjes, Executive Director, Canon Collins Trust, explores how collaboration between various sectors can drive meaningful change in higher education in South Africa. This approach addresses systemic challenges and creates a more equitable, inclusive, and innovative education system by engaging stakeholders across academia, government, and the private sector. 

Read →
Troubling Power Essay Competition Award Winner
Scribes of freedom: Southern African literature works for a just society 

Literature has long been a tool for social justice in Southern Africa, shaping the fight for freedom and equality. In this award-winning essay from the Troubling Power Essay Competition, Canon Collins Trust Scholar Chikumbutso Ndaferankhande highlights the critical role of writers in decolonisation, challenging power structures, and fostering community-centred activism. He calls on Southern African authors to continue using their stories to confront oppression and inspire change, proving that literature remains a powerful catalyst for justice.

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Troubling Power Essay Competition Award Winner
Class divisions and the struggle for honest conversations about the NHI

Honest conversations about South Africa’s National Health Insurance (NHI) are often clouded by class divisions. This thought-provoking piece by Abongile Nkamisa explores the challenges in addressing these divides and the need for transparent dialogue to ensure equitable healthcare for all. Dive into the discussion and join the conversation on the future of NHI.

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Mail And Guardian
Growing the digital platforms sector could boost the economy significantly, study shows

Canon Collins Trust Scholar Aarti Bhana looks at a new study revealing that expanding South Africa's digital platforms sector could significantly boost the economy. From e-commerce to ride-sharing, these platforms are reshaping industries and creating new opportunities for growth and job creation. 

Read →
Mail and Guardian
South Africa’s children are excluded from democratic participation

Canon Collins Scholar Yolisa Piliso shines a spotlight on a critical issue ahead of South Africa's general elections. Yolisa emphasizes that child participation extends beyond observation; it's about actively involving children in discussions and decision-making processes impacting their lives, from education to government policies.

Read →
Mail and Guardian
TVET colleges can help municipalities weather climate change

Discover how TVET colleges can play a crucial role in climate change resilience for municipalities! In this insightful article, Canon Collins Scholar Helga Jansen-Daugbjerg discusses the potential of vocational education to equip communities with essential skills for environmental challenges. Learn how local training programs can drive sustainable development and mitigate climate risks. 

Read →
Mail and Guardian
Climate change disasters have a psychological toll that is ignored

In this eye-opening article, Tsogololathu Itaye shares her experience as a social worker in Malawi when Cyclone Freddy hit the Southern African country. She argues that social workers are not recognised as an asset, yet they can play a critical role in all phases of disaster risk management.

Read →
SABC NEWS
Teenage Pregnancy | 'More responsibility needed around sexual education, consent'

South Africa is grappling with a teenage pregnancy crisis. Recent data from 2023/24 reveals that 1 in 4 girls become mothers before age 20, and over 2,700 girls aged 10-14 gave birth in public healthcare facilities. Watch Canon Collins Alum Dr. Marion Stevens, a leading expert in sexual and reproductive justice, discuss this pressing issue and the urgent need for solutions.

Watch →
Mail and Guardian
Patriarchy takes centre stage in the world of jazz

The world of jazz isn't just about the music—it's also about the fight for equality. This article by Canon Collins Trust Scholar Aarti Bhana highlights women's struggle in the jazz industry, where patriarchy still dominates. From battling gender bias to challenging the status quo, female jazz artists are making their voices heard. Dive into the conversation and see how they're shaking up the scene. 

Read →
Mail and Guardian
The Malawi we hoped for wasn’t delivered in 2020

Canon Collins Trust Scholar Tsogololathu Itaye discusses the challenges and unkept promises of a better Malawi three years after the historic 2020 elections. She highlights that despite high hopes, the nation grapples with corruption and economic instability.

Read →
SOWETAN LIVE
What entrepreneurs can learn from political coalitions

What can entrepreneurs learn from political coalitions? Canon Collins Trust Alum Dr Steven Zwane's latest column in Sowetan Live explores the parallels between business and politics, highlighting how strategic alliances, negotiation skills, and shared goals can drive success. Entrepreneurs can gain valuable insights into collaboration and adaptability from observing political coalitions.

Read →
MAIL AND GUARDIAN
Embracing the diaspora vote can enfranchise Zimbabwean economic nomads

Canon Collins Alum Tendai Mikioni discusses how embracing the diaspora vote can enfranchise Zimbabweans abroad, ensuring their constitutional right to vote despite being away from home. He argues that this crucial step aligns with democratic principles and can significantly impact future elections, empowering economic nomads and strengthening the nation's democratic framework. 

Read →
Women & Politics in the Global South Webinar
Marion Stevens, Construction of Sexual & Reproductive Justice in South Africa
Watch →
Mail and Guardian
EFF hosting homophobic academic is a warning ahead of the elections
The so-called revolutionary party protested against Uganda’s deadly anti-queer legislation but then hosted Patrick Lumumba at the University of Cape Town. By PhD scholar Marion Stevens.
Read →
Troubling Power Essay Competition Award Winner
Writing ourselves into existence: The story of black women 
Every woman’s story, including those of ordinary people who fought silent battles, adds a thread to the rich tapestry of our history
Read →
mail and guardian
Feeling extra tired? Mid-year burnout is a thing
Written by our scholar and Mail and Guardian intern, Aarti Bhana
Read →
Mail and Guardian
Homophobia wears pan-Africanist regalia
This article was one of the standout essays submitted to the Canon Collins Trust’s annual Lead with Your Mind: Troubling Power essay competition.
Read →
Mail and Guardian
The Forgotten Women in Education
Paths to higher education are blocked for women in early childhood education. This article was a finalist of Canon Collins Trust’s annual Lead with Your Mind: Troubling Power essay competition
Read now →
Troubling Power Essay Competition Winner
Zimbabwe’s hope: A wind of change to democracy
2023 Essay Competition Winner by Kuda Manjonjo
Read now →
The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales
Legacy fraud – a charity CEO’s cautionary tale
Stuart Craig, our CEO, talks about his experience of fighting for a £1.5m stolen legacy and adviseson how to mitigate the risk of legacy fraud
Read Now →
Ethel De Keyser
Southern Gauteng News
Canon Collins Trust co-founder Ethel De Keyser post-humously awarded Order of Luthuli in Gold for her contribution to the struggle for liberation in South Africa
At a joyous and deeply humbling ceremony in Pretoria on Friday, 28 April Ethel de Keyser post-humously received the Order of Luthuli Award in Gold for her “astounding contribution to the struggle for liberation”.
Read →
Independent on Saturday
Mother Earth’s legal tiger gets sharper teeth
Ruchir Naidoo’s love of the Earth since childhood is the grounding of a career he wants to use to help humanity.
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Independent Online
Canon Collins Trust avails 57 new scholarships this year, R300m spent since 2004
As thousands of students across the country battle to find money to pursue higher education, a South Africa-based NGO, the Canon Collins Trust, has awarded at least 57 new scholarships. This story also appeared in the Sunday Express and the Zimbabwe Digital Express.
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Troubling Power Essay Competition
Harare: Dirty city, dirty politics, dirty black gold
by Andrew Kuda Manjonjo
Read in the Mail and Guardian →
Troubling Power Essay Competition
Zimbabwean youths drink and smoke themselves to oblivion
by Clayton Moyo 
Read in the Mail and Guardian →
Troubling Power Essay Competition WINNER
Peace-making is the responsibility of us all not just politicians
by Martin Mulenga
Read in the Mail and Guardian →
Mail and Guardian
Zimbabwe: The shaky pillars of the right to land and property
by Kudakwashe Manjonjo, Troubling Power Essay Competition Winner
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Mail and Guardian
The plight of being a deafblind child in Africa: My personal experience
 by Simate Simate Troubling Power Essay Competition Winner
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Mail and Guardian
Shaping a World Leading Constitution
by Dr Justice Mavedzenge with Albie Sachs
Read →
Mail and Guardian
With a rope around my neck, they let loose a police dog. These people are barbarians.
A groundbreaking article by Tshepang Eddie Makwati
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Mail and Guardian
Township Women – Invisible yet Formidable
by Ishara Maharaj
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Mail and Guardian Thought Leader
A Country with no Children Part Two
by Catherine Sofianos
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Mail and Guardian Thought Leader
A Country with no Children Part One
by Catherine Sofianos
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Mail and Guardian Thought Leader
On Queer Precarity and Liveable Spaces
By Troubling Power Essay Competition Winner Clayton Moyo
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The Times
Historic letter signed by Nelson Mandela and other Rivonia trialists on auction by UK education trust
by Suthentira Govender (Senior Reporter)
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Mail and Guardian Thought Leader
Activism and Empathy: Drawing lessons from Sister Beatrice Chipeta
by Troubling Power Essay Competition Winner Frank Mgungwe
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Mail and Guardian
Learning apartheid
by Leah Nasson and Catherine Sofianos
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Mail and Guardian Thought Leader
Democracy and open society in Zimbabwe 41 years after independence 
by Dewa Mavhinga
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Mail and Guardian Thought Leader
Climate Justice: How will Africa protect itself from global abusers? 
by Kolosa Ntombini
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Mail and Guardian Thought Leader
Troubling Power: Michael Scott and the Herero Mission to the UN
by Catherine Sofianos
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Mail and Guardian
Namibia's Blue Book of Record
by Catherine Sofianos
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Mail and Guardian
Under the Power of the Gun
by Catherine Sofianos
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GroundUp
Why Makhanda residents are taking their municipality to court: Sewage spills are an environmental and health crisis
by Cecile van Schalkwyk (LRC) and Catherine Sofianos
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Daily Maverick
Fighting the temptation to turn to violence in Zimbabwe
by Darlington Tshuma
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Mail and Guardian
Zimbabwe’s marriage Bill is an improvement but it still leaves women vulnerable
by Pretty Mubaiwa
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Daily Maverick
Universities must take transformation seriously
based on Mary Hames' presentation at the 2019 Annual Scholar's Conference. By Mary Hames
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Sunday Independent
Imagining the End of Capitalism
based on Sarita Ranchod's speech at the 2019 Annual Alumni Dinner.By Sarita Ranchod 
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GroundUp & Daily Maverick
One door of learning has opened, but the others are still firmly shut
by Gillian Attwood
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