What was your first job as a journalist?
News Writer
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes
How is social media changing news?
Social media is speeding up news delivery, allowing real-time updates, but also increasing the spread of misinformation.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
None
What does it mean to be a journalist?
To be a journalist means to gather, investigate, and report information to the public in a fair, accurate, and ethical manner. Journalists play a crucial role in informing society by covering news events, uncovering truths, and providing context to stories. This involves researching, interviewing, and presenting facts through various media like articles, broadcasts, or digital platforms. A journalist's mission is to provide reliable information that helps the public understand current events, hold power accountable, and make informed decisions. Integrity, objectivity, and responsibility are core values of journalism.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
None
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I prefer being pitched on stories through email, with a clear, concise subject line and relevant details. Please provide key points upfront and ensure the topic aligns with my areas of expertise, such as politics, lifestyle, or other engaging stories.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
MS Word, WordPress, Grammarly, Chat GPT, TCS, LOFT20, Google Doc, etc.
What's your favorite social network?
Linkedin.com
Who do you wish followed you?
I would love to be followed by influential thought leaders, experienced journalists, and industry professionals who inspire and challenge me to grow.
Why did you become a journalist?
I became a journalist because I want to share valuable information that can make a difference in people's lives and contribute positively to the world.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
No, I didn't.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
One of the stories I am most proud of working on involved a deep dive into the complexities of local politics. I uncovered hidden dynamics that influenced policy decisions and exposed how these decisions affected everyday lives. It wasn’t just about reporting the facts; it was about revealing truths that opened the eyes of many readers. Writing on politics and related topics allowed me to give voice to underrepresented issues and bring clarity to complex matters, sparking meaningful conversations in the process. That story remains a testament to the power of journalism in driving awareness and change.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
My advice to aspiring journalists is simple: always ensure your facts are accurate before publishing. Your energy should be directed at uncovering truth, not at harming anyone’s image. Stay neutral, objective, and focused on telling the story fairly. Journalism is about serving the public with honesty and integrity.
When's the best time to pitch you?
10:pm to 6:am
What's the best pitch you ever got?
The best pitch I ever got was clear, concise, and tailored specifically to my interests. It had a strong story angle, included all necessary details, and demonstrated the relevance of the topic to my audience.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
The worst pitch I ever got was one that was clearly mass-mailed and didn’t relate to my beat at all. It showed no understanding of what I cover or how it could fit into my work.
What's your favorite drink?
Coffee
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
I am outside gathering ideas and observing real-life events
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
Aside from my own, I enjoy reading PUNCH for its well-researched articles and diverse perspectives on global politics, culture, and current affairs.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
A common misperception about my beat is that it’s solely focused on sensational stories, while in reality, it involves in-depth analysis and accurate reporting on complex issues.
