Samantha Msipa

In conversation with Samantha Msipa - Technology policy and strategy specialist, Technology writer

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthafmsipa/

The Africa Tech Authors & Speakers Forum is more than just an initiative – it’s a call to action. Technology is reshaping our world at an unprecedented pace, yet the voices driving these changes often come from the “Global North.” It’s time for Africa to rise, to lead, and to share its own story. Join us here: https://forms.gle/9i71dKWxAPdjRCfA8

The main points from our conversation:

Writing and Speaking Are Learned Skills – No one is born a great writer or speaker. It takes practice, persistence, and constructive feedback to improve.
Read More to Write Better – Reading widely, including content similar to what you want to write, helps develop critical thinking, vocabulary, and storytelling skills.
Just Start – Even if It’s 50 Words a Day – Overcoming procrastination is key. Writing a little every day builds confidence and consistency.
Know Your Audience – Tailor your message to your readers or listeners. Make complex topics relatable by connecting them to real-life experiences.
Use AI as a Tool, Not a Crutch – AI can help refine ideas and language, but your authentic voice must shine through. Use AI for structuring and enhancing your work, not replacing your originality.

About our conversation:

In a world where technology is reshaping industries at an unprecedented pace, African voices in tech must be heard. Yet, for many professionals, the challenge lies not in a lack of expertise but in expressing their insights effectively. In a recent conversation between Johan Steyn and Samantha Msipa for The Africa Tech Authors & Speakers Forum, key lessons emerged on overcoming fears, refining skills, and finding one’s voice in writing and public speaking.

Writing and Speaking Are Learned Skills

A common misconception is that great writers and speakers are born with a natural talent. However, both are skills that can be developed through practice, feedback, and perseverance. Samantha Msipa, a technology policy strategist, emphasises that writing, like speaking, requires continuous learning and refinement. Mistakes and imperfections are part of the process, and improvement comes through constructive criticism and self-discipline.

The Power of Reading to Strengthen Writing

One of the most effective ways to improve writing is to read widely. Exposure to diverse writing styles, topics, and perspectives helps writers refine their own voices. Samantha highlights that reading stimulates critical thinking and provides inspiration, particularly when struggling to find the right words. By immersing oneself in relevant literature, aspiring writers can develop a natural flow in their writing and learn how to communicate complex ideas effectively.

Overcoming Procrastination and Getting Started

For many, the biggest hurdle in writing is simply getting started. Staring at a blank page can be daunting, leading to procrastination. Samantha suggests setting small, manageable goals—such as writing 50 words a day—to build confidence and momentum. The key is to write consistently, even if the first draft is imperfect. Editing and refining can come later, but the act of writing itself must become a habit.

Understanding and Engaging Your Audience

Writing and speaking are not just about self-expression; they are about connecting with an audience. Whether addressing a tech-savvy crowd or a general readership, understanding the audience’s needs, interests, and level of expertise is crucial. Samantha advises tailoring content to be relatable and accessible, particularly when discussing technical topics. Using storytelling and real-life examples can make complex ideas more engaging and digestible.

Balancing AI Assistance with Authenticity

With the rise of AI-powered writing tools, many professionals are using platforms like ChatGPT to refine their work. While AI can help with structure and language, it is essential to maintain authenticity. Samantha warns against relying entirely on AI-generated content, as it can strip writing of its unique voice. Instead, AI should be used as a tool for enhancing clarity and coherence while ensuring that the writer’s personal insights and perspectives remain at the forefront.

Amplifying African Voices in Tech

Ultimately, the goal of The Africa Tech Authors & Speakers Forum is to empower African professionals to share their knowledge with the world. Whether through articles, blogs, public speaking, or research, more African voices must contribute to global discussions on technology. By building confidence, refining skills, and embracing opportunities, African writers and speakers can shape the narrative and drive meaningful conversations in the tech space.

Now is the time to start. Every voice matters. Every story counts. The journey to becoming a recognised speaker or writer begins with the decision to share your insights with the world.