Rivers State Correspondent of The Guardian Newspaper, Ann Godwin has urged journalists to explore the numerous opportunities available in the media industry and stop being spectators.
Godwin who was one of the panellists at the launch of the Nigeria Media Capacity Development Reports’22 noted that there are many emerging opportunities which many journalists are not taking advantage of due to complacency.
“A wise man said, to achieve an incredible result, you must begin to do the impossible. I think in this era of journalism, journalists should begin to crave more opportunities. Some of us are so relaxed, we need to begin to dare to do more, to move beyond the normal level we are.
“To succeed, you must be creative. This is one of the major challenges that we journalists have, especially those that are waiting for something to happen to report. If you become creative, you won’t lack, you will be very productive, because some of the organisations highlighted in the media capacity development reports are looking for people that are creative. And there are so many things to write about. Each day there are new things to uncover,” Godwin said.
The founder of Step-Up for Women in Journalism added that it is necessary that journalists justify the funding and resources invested in organising training programmes by ensuring they give the required value.
“When you go to a programme, get back and there’s no quality result from the training you got, the funders and implementing partners will not be eager to invite you next time.
“If you get an opportunity, explore it. One opportunity can open doors to ten more opportunities. I had just one opportunity and it has opened more opportunities for me. I have lost count of the multiple grants and training opportunities I have received. I have also won some awards. So if you’re really determined, the door is open for you.”
She also advised reporters to build their brand, as this sets them up in the industry as a force to reckon with.
