In a bid to empower female journalists across Africa and Francophone countries, the African Women in Journalism Project (AWJP) – a prestigious initiative recognizing and celebrating exceptional women in journalism – in collaboration with the International Centre for Journalism Foundation (ICJF) and LightRay! Media hosted a networking session featuring Lady Ejiro Umukoro as the guest speaker.
AWJP embodies the values of excellence, integrity, and impact, providing a platform for journalists to share their stories, learn from each other, and grow in their careers. The project has achieved remarkable milestones, including:
– Recognizing and rewarding outstanding journalists through its annual awards program
– Providing training and capacity-building opportunities for journalists
– Fostering a community of journalists who support and learn from each other
– Promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the media industry
Umukoro, a notable expert in investigative journalism, shared her expansive experience and scope on the subject, focusing on Investigative Collaborative Storytelling. Her presentation drew attendees from Liberia, Nigeria, Kenya, Botswana, South Africa, and other countries. The session was translated into English and French and was part of a series of programs showcasing frontline outstanding women in journalism in Africa.
The presentation emphasized the importance of resilience, safety, and collaboration in investigative journalism. She cautioned female journalists to prioritize safety, especially when covering sensitive topics, and encouraged them to connect with their authentic selves, embracing their unique qualities and recognizing the importance of self-care.
Collaborative Storytelling and Investigative Journalism
During the Q&A session, moderated by Catherine Gicheru and Naima Mungai, lead project managers of the African Women in Journalism Project, participants discussed critical issues in investigative journalism. These included investigative work lost in translation, adding value to collaborative storytelling, and due diligence when selecting team members.
Lady Ejiro stressed the importance of trust and having team members who can “have your back.” She recommended minimizing personal exposure to social media and seeking assistance from institutions like the International Press Institute (IPI) for added safety.
Repurposing Content and Building Resilience
Lady Ejiro highlighted the potential for journalists to repurpose their work into various formats, citing her book _Distortion_ as an example. She urged journalists to harness social media to promote their work and create lasting legacies.
Call to Action
The session concluded with a powerful message from Lady Ejiro, urging female journalists to “embrace their gifts, build inspiring friendships, and enhance their digital skills.” She reminded them that journalism is a remarkable career, but prioritizing mental health is essential.
The African Women in Journalism Project aims to empower and support African women journalists, promoting gender equality, capacity building, and leadership. By sharing insights and experiences, the project seeks to create a community of resilient and determined female journalists.
[READ ALSO: ‘Why Nigerian newsrooms need a tech-startup mindset’]