ABOUT

Academic qualifications

MA Clinical Psychology, UPE
BA Honours, Unisa
BA English and Psychology, Rhodes University

Hi! I’m Gillian McAinsh, a professional freelance writer and editor with extensive experience in print and digital media.

I offer the following media services:

Writing
Editing
Media liaison, strategy and media releases
Training: writing workshops for students and academics

My background is in newspapers, much of it in my home city of Nelson Mandela Bay on the south east coast of South Africa. While working at The Herald and Weekend Post I won the Vodacom Regional Award for Journalist of the year twice – once for consumer journalism and once for print news.

Today I freelance mostly for universities and corporates, but still keep my hand in by writing lifestyle features for regional and national newspapers. Areas of interest include arts, education and lifestyle.

It’s important to give back, so reduced rates (sometimes free) for charities and NGOs also feature in the mix. Otherwise, see the annual Safrea rates survey for a general indication of rates or get in touch.

Interests outside work include open-water swimming in Algoa Bay, running, playing golf, taking happy snaps and playing with graphics. Oh, and of course, spending time with family and friends … but don’t we all love that?

What clients say …

Vodacom Journalist of the Year

(Eastern Cape)

Print News (2017)
Consumer Journalism (2011)

Professional Affiliation

Full member of Southern African Freelancers Association
Member of Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber

“What a pleasure to work with such a professional wordsmith. Gillian is an organised, hardworking and talented writer who meets all her deadlines. If only we could clone her!”

— Debbie Derry, Nelson Mandela University

“5/5 would recommend. Enlisting Gillian's enthusiastic and professional assistance calmed my nerves as she crafted a path into the market that worked.”

— Steven Lancaster, ONE12run

“Gillian is truly a dream to work with. She is organised and extremely efficient. Gillian is resourceful and knowledgeable on a broad range of topics, with an extensive contact base.”

— Rochelle de Kock

Editor-in-chief , The Herald and Weekend Post

“Gillian is a seasoned, talented professional with impeccable writing and editing skills. Her sharp eye for detail makes her an obvious and guaranteed asset on any project.”

— Beth Cooper-Howell, Woman on Top