Praise Olowe, a graduate of Mass Communication from Joseph Ayo University (JABU) on national youth service at The Nation Newspapers shares her thoughts on contributions of speakers at the Women in Journalism Conference 2017.
Considering the speed at which the world of technology, social media and information dissemination is growing, it has become very necessary for journalists to master the use of new media tools. The Women in Journalism Conference 2017 made many young female journalists like me realize the importance of creativity and skills in the world of journalism.
According to Colette Otuesho, a value-driven marketing communications and project management professional who was one of the speakers at the programme “You either evolve or die”.
This statement caught my attention and nudged me of the fact that while technology is advancing daily, if I do not evolve, my brand, products, ideas, innovation and skills will die gradually.
She explained that the public do not want to see the same thing over and again, adding that they want a taste of something new, unique and creative.
“Creativity is open mindedness” Toun Okewale founder of WFM 91.7 said. You cannot be creative without opening your mind to things about you, she further explained.
Many young journalists like myself are oblivious of the fact that contents, events and stories are everywhere around us. Our minds are not opened to it just yet. The angle and medium on which stories are presented, is what brings out its uniqueness. This is where creativity sets in. I have come to understand that until your mind is opened to something, you cannot develop on it.
Anderson Uvie, Executive Vice President at Chicago Institute of business, also emphasized the need for creativity and change. He explained that most journalists and media houses do not believe in the need to adopt social media and trends.
According to him, social media channels such as YouTube, Twitter, Facebook etc. have given us the opportunities for experiment.
Anderson wondered why some radio stations don’t have cameras in their studios, noting that it has gotten to the stage where people want to see, not just hear
His explanation made me realise why some electronic media (television and radio) are struggling to survive. It is due to their refusal to evolve. Many journalists still want to do things the traditional way without realizing the risk they run of being left behind.