After living and working in a city for my entire life, I changed gear for a better quality lifestyle. My husband and I now live on our farm in the Eastern Cape, bordering the Baviaans Nature Reserve, part of the Baviaans Wilderness Area – a UNESCO World Heritage Site owing to its exceptional diversity and natural beauty. But what has this got to do with the Professional Editors’ Guild (PEG)?
I joined PEG about a year ago to help me navigate my career change. This is how I benefitted from being a member.
Moving towards specialisation
After more than 30 years, my work with corporate clients dried up. I had spent 25 years as a business communication professional/PR manager in the corporate world and 11 years as a consultant/freelancer in the same sphere. During the last decade, I managed and executed projects involving the compilation of corporate publications. From identifying strategically aligned content with the client’s employed communication team to writing, editing and proofreading of publications, I had to promote/encourage the reading of the newsletters via other platforms among the target audience/employees of the company. I did not, however, have experience with focused editing using Track Changes and author queries.
I wanted to move away from broad corporate communications towards specialised proofreading and editing. I had to formalise these skills and reposition myself to focus on this area, preferably in the business sphere where my experience lies.
My impressions of the benefits of PEG
PEG Conference
My first encounter with PEG was in 2023 when I attended its 30th Anniversary Online Conference as a non-member. The professional way in which it was presented and the quality of the conference content persuaded me to join PEG.
PEGforum
I value the willingness of PEGgers to share tips and advice freely.
Coffee conversations
The interesting topics and stimulating discussions in these free sessions continue to attract me, and the fact that attendance contributes to my CPD points is a bonus!
Webinars
Apart from being interesting and informative, the webinars give me a sense of belonging to a community of skilled people. I like the steady flow of these sessions, which are well planned and professionally presented.
CPD points system
The CPD system serves as encouragement to be involved and learn more. This is a well-thought-through programme with a very helpful online template to track one’s participation.
Training
PEG introduced me to John Linnegar’s Copy-editing and Proofreading course, which I completed successfully in 2025. I’m confident that this qualification, endorsed by the Publishers’ Association of South Africa, will open doors for me.
Full membership
I find the different membership categories inspiring – something to aim for. I’m currently working towards Full Membership and believe I will learn a lot from PEG’s Mentorship programme.
Regional involvement
When I joined PEG, the regional chair welcomed me personally and helped me to find my feet in the organisation. I attended the region’s in-person event at his home on the outskirts of Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) in 2024, where I enjoyed the support of other members. The leadership is committed, and we have regular online sessions aligned with the needs of its members.
Annual general meeting
I believe an AGM reflects the health of an organisation. I attended the latest one and was impressed by its presentation.
Website
PEG’s website is a treasure trove of information for members. Working through it is a continuous learning experience.
Volunteers
Being a member of various professional organisations, I know that finding committed volunteers is a challenge. At PEG, it seems the volunteers are doing their jobs with passion.
The journey continues and I’m looking forward to what is still in store for me!
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