I was fortunate enough to participate in the event with HUGE thanks to Shine Media; they provide training and recruitment to diverse talent. Check them out, they do some worthy stuff, with an open heart and mind! The day was carefully constructed to give attendees a comprehensive picture into broadcast media. My particular itinerary- orchestrated by relevant group mentors- surrounded ITV News and journalistic practices. Other groups ventured to watch 'Loose Women' live on set, or snoop around Channel 4 studios. The respected ITV News Managing Editor Robin Elias greeted us with a welcoming introductory speech, followed by ITV news presenter- and VERY lovely personality, Charlene White. They geared us up for the day, plan and team morale wise!
Coming from an architectural and design background without formal journalism training, I was shocked at how succinct and speedy reporters had to be. In a 20 minute workshop task, we were given about seven pages of script to downsize into a 60-word evening news summary. The format had to embrace a 3-words-per-second limitation, with the need to mention key figureheads and quotations. Needless to say, mine was wordy and too descriptive. Maybe I'll have to stick to my editorials? Key learning: write as if it were conversational, adding in unique phrases and a little embellishment to paint the scene for public interpretation. DON'T choose long, profound quotes and keep to short sentences with speech in mind- presenters don't have time to interpret and perform the long ones first time.
Aside from this task, there were heaps of others occurring simultaneously, including production methods, on-screen training, technical insights and simulations of reporting experiences out in the field.
After the bulk of the activities, all groups reconvened. My new friend/ fellow Ghanian showed off his Jon Snow selfie (famous ITN News presenter and British journalist for those of you who aren't familiar)- I was very jealous! He also mentioned how bubbly and adaptable Amanda Holden was at her job! Ah the on-screen/ off-screen switch-up. I concluded it was pretty challenging being a presenter, with lots of thinking-on-your feet. whilst taking direction and maintaining MRS.SMILEY!
I would have loved to have learnt more about ITN productions, being the more commercial and creative content providers. They also do digital, branded and documentary work. During a quick-stop tour we saw the camera's virtual reality abilities and how autocue fed into live news.
(^Looking slightly lame, but oh so eager^)
In all, it was a great experience- show me the next one! Special thanks to Camilla Mankabady, Programme Editor, Tamisha Achibald, from the Creative Diversity Network/ a skilled researcher and Kojo Boateng, a super-experienced industry designer, for their attentiveness, time and sound advice! The event allowed me to mingle with students and young professionals of the like, who share wild ambitions and great energy. Thanks to everyone I met! I'm grateful for your presence and wish you all the best. Hopefully a few of us will stay in touch and do great things in the media!
