Meet the Messenger
Thomasi McDonald is a dynamic force in North Carolina’s cultural and journalistic landscape. McDonald is a storyteller, actor, African djembe drummer, and senior writer with an education from N.C. Central University whose work reflects a deep commitment to justice, creativity, and mentorship. Twitter/X: @thomcdonald LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/thomasimcdonald
Rooted in Reporting, Raised in Rhythm
McDonald’s career began in traditional journalism, where he made his mark reporting for The Charlotte Observer, The News & Observer, and INDY Week which is a respected alternative weekly newspaper serving the Research Triangle area. His writing often explores themes of justice, race, and everyday life in the South. In addition to reporting, McDonald is a local actor and African djembe drummer whose performances are deeply connected to cultural expression and resistance. His artistry is more than a hobby as it’s also a form of advocacy.
Mentorship in Motion
Beyond the bylines, McDonald is a mentor to emerging storytellers and journalists. He has coached students through the Ida B. Wells Society for Investigative Reporting, empowering young journalists of color to uncover truth and hold power to account. His guidance extends beyond technical skills as he instills in his mentees a sense of purpose, helping them use storytelling as a force for social change. Whether in a classroom or a community center, McDonald leads by example, showing that the power of the press lies in the people it serves.
Poetry, Protest, and “Imperial’s ism”
One of McDonald’s most notable creative works is Imperial’s ism, a powerful poetry video about the 1991 poultry plant fire in Hamlet, North Carolina which was a tragedy that exposed deep inequalities in labor and race. The video, presented at the MTV Human Rights Watch International Film Festival in 1994, blends art with activism and remains a standout example of how McDonald uses multiple mediums to explore systemic injustice.
Beyond the Page: The Personal Beat
When he’s not reporting or performing, McDonald is often found engaging with Durham’s arts scene or drumming at community events. He remains deeply invested in cultural preservation and storytelling, often blending personal history with broader social movements. His lifelong dedication to justice, creativity, and mentorship has made him a pillar in both journalism and the arts.