Nielen’s curiosity has taken her into many different spaces, from commerce and teaching to journalism, photography, multimedia production, digital strategy, PR, and content. She has always been interested in how things work, what makes people tick, and the story behind the story.
That curiosity led her to complete a BPhil Honours in Journalism, a BCom in Economics and Marketing, and a Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching at Stellenbosch University. She built her career in newsrooms and communications, working for News24, Die Burger, TygerBurger, Media24, and Copy That Communications Consultancy. With more than 12 years’ experience across journalism and communications, she has done social media, digital, or online content work in almost every role she has had, from updating social networks and creating videos to managing websites, digital-first stories, PR content, and social media strategies for clients.
She is an award-winning journalist known for strong human-interest storytelling, with accolades including FCJ Columnist of the Year and Human Interest Journalist of the Year. She’s also a skilled photographer and multimedia producer who enjoys turning complex information into clear, engaging content. Off duty, she gardens, researches genealogy, reads books on photojournalism, and has a soft spot for self-deprecating humour.
