IAWRT-KE

Tag: #mentorship

  • Day 2: Invest To Prevent Online Gender – Based Violence (OGBV) #SafetyOFWomenJournalists #16DaysOfActivism

    Day 2: Invest To Prevent Online Gender – Based Violence (OGBV) #SafetyOFWomenJournalists #16DaysOfActivism

    Investing in preventing gender-based violence is not only a moral imperative but also an economic one. GBV has significant costs and consequences, including medical, legal, and missed productivity expenditures.

    On several fronts, it is necessary to invest in the prevention of gender-based violence (GBV) more so as we mark this year’s #16days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence on Women and Girls. These could be achieved through:

    Investment in Educational Initiatives

    Investing in educational programs that promote consent, gender equality, and healthy relationships is crucial. These programs, which aim to foster an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding, can begin in childhood and continue throughout maturity.

    Policy and Law

    It is essential to make investments in the creation and upholding of laws and policies that provide protection against GBV. Adequate funding guarantees proper execution and oversight of these actions to hold perpetrators responsible and provide survivors justice.

    Community Programs

    It is critical to provide funding for community-based initiatives that bring men and boys together to debate gender stereotypes, healthy masculinity, and positive roles models for males. These programs target fundamental societal norms and attitudes with the goal of preventing Gender Based Violence.

    Research and Data Collection

    Investing in research and data collection efforts provides a deeper understanding of the root causes and prevalence of GBV. This data aids in successfully tailoring preventative strategies and interventions.

    Workplace Initiatives

    It is critical to support workplace policies and initiatives that advance gender equality, offer harassment prevention training, and assist survivors in the workplace. In addition to fostering safe spaces, this helps to alter social norms.

    By investing in prevention, societies can save resources and create safer, healthier, and more equitable communities for everyone.

    The International Association of Women in Radio and Television (IAWRT) is a global nonprofit professional organization of women working in electronic media, Technology, and allied media. IAWRT strives to meet the urgent global challenges faced by women in and around the media.

    This Kenyan chapter has over 100 members spread across media houses and other like-minded organizations. It received its charter to operate as a local chapter in 2005. One of our core objectives is to support the professional development of members through exchange of ideas, experiences and technical knowledge which in turn is utilized as media skills to ensure that women’s concerns, views and values are an integral part of electronic programming.

    https://twitter.com/IawrtK/status/1728795584436293884?t=HES7niIDGisWHuVVr4zGVw&s=08

    By, Raylenne Kambua

    Digital Media Associate IAWRT

  • Leveraging Female Journalist Mentorship For Professional Development

    Leveraging Female Journalist Mentorship For Professional Development

    “Mentorship is the art of unlocking potential by guiding individuals through open doors.” Caroline Ghosn

    Embracing this philosophy, the International Association of Women in Radio and Television, Kenya chapter, has, for the past six years, championed a transformative platform for female journalists in Kenya. 

    Handpicked from diverse universities nationwide, aspiring female journalists are granted a unique opportunity to undergo a year-long mentorship programme, pairing them with dedicated mentors to sculpt their professional paths.

    The recent graduation ceremony on November 16th, 2023, marked the culmination of the fifth cohort, evoking emotions of gratitude and evident growth among the mentees.

    Throughout the year-long program, the mentees actively participated in a spectrum of activities, including tailored training sessions and capacity-building programs, fostering an environment for self-creation guided by the wisdom gleaned from their mentors.

    At the closing ceremony, Carla Benini, Counsellor of Public Affairs at the US Embassy in Nairobi, underscored the pivotal role of nurturing and empowering young journalists in fortifying democracy. “A strong media equals a strong democracy,” she emphasised. Such mentorship programmes encourage young professionals to fully venture into and commit to their professions and serve as the much-needed connective tissue between the government and the people for journalism professionals.

    In today’s era of digitalization, Pamella Sittoni, Group Managing Editor at Nation Media Group, emphasized the relevance of journalism studies and its critical role in societal discourse. ‘The media is needed today more than ever to hold power to account and to give voice to the voiceless and as catalysts to positive change,’ she articulated.

    As guardians of truth and information, the mentees were urged to uphold unwavering professionalism amidst the evolving media landscape. The lifetime award-winning mentor sensitised all to uphold their values of hard work, integrity, respect, and honesty in their professions.

    This programme, generously supported by the US Embassy in Nairobi, stands as a pivotal catalyst for transformation among female journalists. Faculty members from participating institutions attest to the programme’s tangible impact, acknowledging the remarkable strides made by mentored students across various spheres in the media industry.

    Rachael Nakitare, the programme coordinator, encouraged all to embrace mentorship as a lifelong pursuit, urging all mentees to perpetuate this spirit.

    In conclusion, the International Association of Women in Radio and Television (IAWRT) stands as a beacon of empowerment and mentorship for aspiring women in the media industry.

    Josephine Karani, the Chairperson of the IAWRT-Kenya chapter, extends hearty congratulations to the fifth cohort from Maseno and Kibabii Universities, urging them to embark on their professional journeys with determination and excellence. As Mercy Njoroge, a dedicated mentor, reflects on the rewarding experience of paying it forward, she emphasizes the significance of sustained mentorship from sponsors and the IAWRT fraternity.

    This collective effort is vital in nurturing and empowering the next generation of women in media, fostering a legacy of resilience, leadership, and innovation within the industry.

    IWART’S Cohort 5 Closing Ceremony

    By Raylenne Kambua,

    Digital Media Associate, IAWRT-Kenya