By Goodness Chibunna
Recently, I’ve been reflecting on my journey in journalism—over a decade of learning, growing, and adapting in this ever-evolving field.
It all began as a freelance reporter for National Mirror Newspapers. Those early days taught me how to spot a story, chase leads, and write under pressure. It wasn’t always pretty, but it laid the foundation for everything that followed.
From there, I transitioned to Legit.ng as a content editor, where I learned the digital side of journalism—SEO, crafting headlines, and the fast-paced world of online news. It was a lesson in adaptability that prepared me for what came next.
As senior news reporter/Abuja correspondent for Pulse, I learned the value of teamwork and deepened my investigative skills. Great journalism often stems from collaboration, and I realised the importance of digging deep, multitasking and time management.
Then came a plot twist—I took a three-year break to work in the development sector as an M&E officer and communications lead for three nonprofits. This gave me a new perspective on the stories I used to report, teaching me about project management, data analysis, and impactul storytelling.
During this time, I founded TheClue Media to tell overlooked stories and mentor budding journalists—a rewarding experience that taught me valuable lessons in media business management.
My freelancing stint with the Global Citizen was another high point. This role allowed me to create multimedia feature stories that shed light on marginalised voices and underserved communities. It was incredible to see how these stories resonated with international audiences, raising awareness and sparking advocacy efforts to combat poverty and inequality globally.
Looking back, I can see how each role shaped me and prepared me for the next step in my career.
Now, as assistant editor (News) at TheCable, I’m using every skill I’ve acquired along the way—from reporting basics to digital media intricacies, and from project management to mentoring.
To colleagues starting out or looking to advance their careers:
1. Embrace versatility: The more skills you have in your toolkit, the more valuable you’ll be. Don’t shy away from learning new technologies or techniques – they might just open doors you never expected.
2. Seek diverse experiences: Some of my most valuable lessons came from stepping outside the traditional newsroom. Whether it’s working in a different sector or freelancing for various outlets, diverse experiences will broaden your perspective and enrich your reporting.
3. Never underestimate the power of networking and mentorship. Build relationships with your colleagues, seek out mentors, and when you’re in a position to do so, become a mentor yourself. Our industry thrives on connection and collaboration.
Remember, every story you write, every project you work on, is a stepping stone. The journey isn’t always easy, but can be incredibly rewarding.
#CareerGrowth #Journalism #Media #DevelopmentCommunication
