What was your first job as a journalist?
I turned to data journalism when I founded Data Ethics PH. I felt I needed to provide a venue to discuss an area which most journalists fear.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
I enjoyed the electric typewriter - what a glorious thought to be able to compile a sentence before printing it. Guess my age!
How is social media changing news?
There's no mainstream vs. social media anymore. Social media is the mainstream. But it carries risks. There is no social fact checking.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Data is my tool for storytelling. Spreadsheets and code are my canvas.
What's your favorite social network?
None. They are all run by algorithms that promote disinformation and hate. We need a new new way of doing social.
Why did you become a journalist?
I didn't choose it. It chose me.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
I worked for our high school publication as the technology lead, which means writing but you're also IT.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
There are many stories, but my initial run on ANC fleshing out the issues related to data ethics was helpful in finding my voice.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
There's more to journalism than the traditional establishment. Do not be afraid to cultivate your own personal brand as a journalist.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
On my phone. Always connected.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
That data is only the realm of techies, geeks, and off limits to journalists.
