South Africa, Aug. 12 -- Her work covered a wide range of issues affecting the Eastern Cape, including healthcare, the justice system, governance failures, water shortages, and the lived realities of communities too often forgotten by those in power.

She was also at the forefront of reporting on the devastating impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, ensuring that the experiences of vulnerable communities were documented and understood.

A desire to make a difference

Former colleague and editor Janet Heard described Ellis as "a journalist in the truest sense of the word: a prolific and powerful writer".

"Driven by a desire to make a difference, she held power to account and ensured her work had a positive impact on people's lives.

"She got d...