What was your first job as a journalist?
Sub Editor intern.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes.
How is social media changing news?
Social media platforms
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
My favorite fictional journalist is Clark Kent (Superman), particularly in his role as a reporter for the Daily Planet. While he's known for his superhero identity, Clark's work as a journalist plays a central role in his character development. He’s not just the mild-mannered reporter; his keen investigative skills, sense of justice, and commitment to uncovering the truth embody the best qualities of journalism. Plus, his ability to balance the pressures of being a reporter and a superhero makes him an interesting, dynamic character. Clark Kent’s idealism and dedication to the truth resonate with the core principles of journalism.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Being a journalist means more than just writing or reporting; it’s about serving as a truth-teller, a voice for the voiceless, and a bridge between the public and the events that shape the world. Journalists are responsible for investigating, questioning, and sharing information that informs and educates the audience. They uphold the values of integrity, accuracy, and fairness, striving to tell stories that are both compelling and factual. It also means being dedicated to uncovering stories, challenging the status quo, and holding power to account, all while navigating the ethical complexities of the profession. Ultimately, it’s about impacting society through responsible storytelling.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
One of the funniest news-related hashtags I've come across was , which went viral after a photo of a dress sparked a massive debate online about whether it was black and blue or white and gold. The hashtag exploded as people from all walks of life—including celebrities and news outlets—shared their opinions. It was hilarious not only because of the fierce arguments over a simple dress but also because it became a perfect example of how something seemingly trivial can capture global attention and spark widespread conversation. It was a fun, lighthearted moment in news!
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Email
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Laptop
What's your favorite social network?
Facebook
Who do you wish followed you?
Cristiano Ronaldo.
Why did you become a journalist?
I became a journalist because I've always had a passion for storytelling and a desire to connect with people through words. Journalism allows me to explore diverse subjects, from sports to social issues, and share those stories in ways that spark conversation and reflection. It’s the opportunity to uncover truths, shed light on important topics, and give a voice to people who may otherwise be unheard. Writing gives me a platform to share stories that matter, and I find that incredibly fulfilling.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Founding Editor.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
CRM
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
To aspiring journalists:
1. Stay Curious: Keep asking questions and exploring new topics.
2. Find Your Voice: Be authentic and develop your unique style.
3. Be Persistent: Journalism is tough, but persistence pays off.
4. Stay Ethical: Always prioritize accuracy, fairness, and integrity.
5. Network: Build relationships with fellow journalists and sources.
6. Keep Writing: Practice often to improve your craft.
7. Adapt: Embrace new tools and trends in the industry.
Stay passionate and dedicated to telling important stories!
When's the best time to pitch you?
8am
What's the best pitch you ever got?
The best pitch I ever received was a well-researched, personalized story idea that was directly relevant to my audience. It not only had a compelling angle but also offered exclusive access to key sources or insights, which made it stand out. The pitch was clear, concise, and showed an understanding of both my beat and my readership’s interests. It demonstrated genuine effort and thoughtfulness, making it much easier to envision how the story would unfold. That kind of pitch makes the process smoother and more enjoyable, as it aligns with both journalistic standards and the audience's expectations.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
The worst pitch I’ve ever received was one that was completely irrelevant to my beat. The sender didn’t bother to research my work or the audience I write for, so the pitch was off-target and failed to show any real understanding of what I do. It was clear they were sending the same generic pitch to as many journalists as possible without tailoring it to the specific outlet or journalist. It didn’t have any angle that would resonate with readers, and the lack of personalization made it feel more like spam than a genuine story idea. That’s a reminder of how important it is to understand your audience and approach journalists thoughtfully.
What's your favorite drink?
Cellphone
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
When I'm not at a computer, I'm most likely to be either in the field gathering stories or in a more relaxed setting, like a coffee shop or a park, thinking through ideas and plotting my next piece. I enjoy stepping away from the screen to recharge and get fresh perspectives—whether it's through observing the world around me, talking with people, or just letting my thoughts flow. It helps me return to my work with a clearer mind and more creative energy.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
BBC
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
One of the most common misperceptions about the sports beat is that it’s solely about scores and highlights. Many people think it's just about reporting the outcome of games, but there's so much more to it—analyzing player performance, diving into team dynamics, exploring behind-the-scenes stories, and addressing broader societal issues like racism, inequality, or politics within sports. There’s also a lot of work that goes into contextualizing the impact of sports on culture and the emotional investment fans have.
