Making a difference: What young journalists had to say about our programmes

The Media for All project has been an “academy” for Amfora Media. During this project, our team developed new approaches and improved its professional reporting. Also, our audience became more engaged, helping us towards better-quality reporting. Young professionals face numerous challenges in a media environment that is increasingly vulnerable to social and political developments. On the other hand, the small media where young professionals work have limited technical and financial capabilities.

I had just begun my career as a journalist in 2021 when I published my first article of investigative reporting. That’s why the Media for All initiative and the chance to take part in it were a major wind in my sails.

I heard about the Media for All Project two years ago when Mitrovica TV became a part of this programme. When I learned about the opportunities it offers, I then believed it would be a good thing for me personally and for the media outlet in which I work. At Mitrovica TV, I am the coordinator of the  Engaged Citizens Reporting programme and I think that this is one of the best experiences I have had during my several years of working in the media.

The main motivation for taking part in the Media for All project was the potential of the training sessions and the workshops.

The situation on our media scene is such that media outlets, primarily media FOR youth created by young people, are almost invisible, economically unsustainable and survive only owing to the immense will of individuals prepared to invest themselves above and beyond their capacities, believing that they can make a positive change.

Young people working in the media need support in all aspects. Thus, I saw participation in the Media for All project as an excellent opportunity for my team and for myself, as a writer and editor just starting out in my career. As a youth newsroom, we strive to improve our work every day, and the Media for All programmes have provided us with an opportunity to learn a lot and gain experience.